Introduction
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that Dr. Hamilton can perform to improve facial balance, support better breathing, and enhance self-confidence through changes in the appearance of the nose. It may be done for both cosmetic and functional concerns, including a bump on the bridge of the nose, wide nostrils, a bulbous tip, a “hooked” nose, breathing issues, or deformities related to injury or congenital disabilities.
Located in Carmel and Greenwood, Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery is led by double-board-certified facial plastic surgeon Mark M. Hamilton, M.D., F.A.C.S., and offers rhinoplasty for men and women in the Indianapolis area, including patients seeking cosmetic refinement, correction of a previous rhinoplasty, or improved nasal function. Below, you can explore the types of rhinoplasty offered, Dr. Hamilton’s qualifications, procedure details, benefits, candidacy, recovery, cost, and how to schedule a consultation.
Rhinoplasty, also known as nose surgery, is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures. With rhinoplasty, it is possible to increase or decrease the overall size of the nose, remove a hump, alter the tip or bridge of the nose, decrease the nostril width, or change the angle between the nose and upper lip. These changes can create a better balance between the facial features.
Rhinoplasty is a popular procedure, with many patients electing to undergo this surgery for the following benefits:
This patient came to Dr. Hamilton ready for a change that had long been on his mind. From the moment he walked through the door, he felt completely comfortable and welcomed, leaving the consultation confident he was in the right hands.
His customized treatment plan included a Rhinoplasty, carefully tailored to his unique features and personal goals, delivering natural-looking results that complemented his appearance beautifully.
The results have been everything he hoped for. As he shared after his follow-up appointments with Dr. Hamilton, “We’re both really happy with the results.”
Let’s Get Started
Deciding if nasal surgery is right for you begins with a consultation. Video imaging, which utilizes computer photography to estimate the final result, can be very helpful for patients to understand their possible outcome and ensure they are on the same page as their surgeon. With successful nasal surgery, patients can both breathe more easily and achieve the look they’ve always desired, with rhinoplasty results continuing to improve over time.
To learn more about which rhinoplasty procedure will best address your needs, please schedule a consultation with Dr. Hamilton, where he will meet with you to review your medical history, evaluate the need for a rhinoplasty, and determine which type of rhinoplasty procedure you are best suited to undergo. He will show you before-and-after pictures of previous rhinoplasty surgeries so that you can better understand the possibilities and limitations of a rhinoplasty procedure. If you and Dr. Hamilton agree that you would benefit from a rhinoplasty, he will create a detailed and personalized surgical treatment plan for you. With your approval, you may schedule your rhinoplasty procedure later with a member of our patient care team.
Rhinoplasty is typically done under general anesthesia, so you will not be able to eat 6-8 hours before surgery. Patients will arrive at the surgery center and prepared for surgery. You will be able to meet with your anesthesiologist as well as Dr. Hamilton again before surgery.
Once in the operating room and asleep, Dr, Hamilton will perform your rhinoplasty procedure.
Rhinoplasty incisions may be placed using an open rhinoplasty or closed rhinoplasty approach. In closed rhinoplasty, the surgeon works through internal incisions inside the nostrils; in open rhinoplasty, those cuts are combined with an external incision along the columella. The nasal skin and soft tissue are then carefully elevated from the underlying cartilage and bone so the surgeon can reshape the nose. The approach chosen depends on the patient’s goals, the complexity of the changes, and the nasal structures involved. The skin is re-draped over the new framework, and the incisions are closed. Surgery usually takes about two to four hours and is done on an outpatient basis. Patients will have tape and a splint on the nose for the first week.
Rhinoplasty is frequently combined with procedures affecting other facial features when needed to create greater facial balance and harmony. Depending on your anatomy and aesthetic goals, Dr. Hamilton may recommend combining rhinoplasty with procedures such as a chin augmentation. Addressing multiple concerns during a single surgical plan can often produce more comprehensive facial rejuvenation while allowing for a single recovery period.
There are some restrictions after nasal surgery. Patients are required to refrain from strenuous activities for two weeks and heavy lifting for three weeks. Additionally, patients should refrain from participating in any contact sports or activities that may cause trauma to the nose for six weeks. Although much of the improvement is visible within the first few weeks, subtle refinements continue as swelling gradually resolves over the first year.
Nasal congestion and bruising are common early after surgery.
The following is a list of general instructions for your care following surgery. Please read them carefully several times, as most of your questions should be answered here. Instructions for your care will also be reviewed the morning after surgery. Carefully following these instructions should help you get the best results from your surgery.
Following your surgery, another adult must stay with you the first night. You should remain within thirty miles of the surgery location for the first night. It is also important for you to keep your head elevated the evening after surgery and for the first two weeks following surgery. This can be achieved by sleeping in a recliner tilted at a 45-degree angle or by placing two pillows underneath your head. Avoid rolling onto your face. Sleeping on your back for the first two weeks after surgery helps to ensure this.
Cool compresses should be applied across the eyes for the first 48 hours after surgery. This involves using multiple washcloths and a basin filled with ice water. The washcloths should be changed out of the basins every twenty to thirty minutes to keep them cool. The washcloths should be applied diagonally over each eye and crisscrossed over the forehead. The nurse will demonstrate how to do this before you leave recovery.
This care will be reviewed the morning following your surgery:
The healing time for nasal surgery is often less than expected, and the results are worth the wait. While swelling should be completely gone after four to six weeks, your healing will continue for the entire first year. Dr. Hamilton will follow you through this entire process, but be patient. Please do not hesitate to contact our office.
The cost of Rhinoplasty in Indianapolis will depend on the extent of treatment required, the type of rhinoplasty procedure selected, and facility fees.
Dr. Mark Hamilton, F.A.C.S., is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon specializing exclusively in surgery of the face, head, and neck. As a recognized leader and one of the top physicians in America in his field, Dr. Hamilton has authored multiple publications and lectured widely to his colleagues on all aspects of facial plastic surgery. Dr. Hamilton has been selected by his peers as one of Indianapolis Monthly Magazine’s “Top Docs” annually for over a decade and has been recognized by Castle Connolly as one of the “Top Physicians” in America for his work in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is actively involved in resident teaching at the IU School of Medicine and serves as a clinical assistant professor there.
Dr. Hamilton graduated Phi Beta Kappa from Indiana University and received his MD degree. He received a merit-based scholarship during his medical school years and was recognized nationally for his research. He completed his Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery residency at Saint Louis University and followed this with a fellowship in Facial Plastic Surgery at Indiana University. Dr. Hamilton is board certified by both the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (ABO-HNS) and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS), and is affiliated with the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AAFPRS), the American Academy of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery (AAO-HNS), the American College of Surgeons (ACS), the American Medical Association (AMA), the International Society of Hair Restoration Surgeons (ISHRS), and the American Society of Laser Medicine and Surgery (ASLMS). He recertified in Facial Plastic Surgery in 2019 and received the highest score in the nation on the written exam.
A rhinoplasty consultation with an experienced and board-certified plastic surgeon is necessary to ensure you make the best decision for your face. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Hamilton in Indianapolis, please contact either of the Hamilton Facial Plastic Surgery locations serving the Indianapolis area. You may call us at 317-614-0639 (Carmel) or 317-210-4339 (Greenwood), or please complete our online booking form.
