Preservation Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
Preservation nose surgery is a revolutionary approach to rhinoplasty that focuses on making the desired aesthetic and functional improvements while maintaining the natural internal structures of the nose. Unlike traditional nose surgery methods that often involve extensive removal of cartilage and bone, preservation rhinoplasty reshapes the nose and straightens the nasal bridge with minimal disruption to its original anatomy. In turn, preservation nose surgery results appear harmonious with your natural features and provide the highly sought-after “non-operated” look that is the hallmark of expert facial plastic surgery.
As experienced plastic surgeons in Minneapolis, Dr. Joe Gryskiewicz and Dr. John Luck are preservation rhinoplasty specialists and have the high caliber of training necessary to provide personalized, stunning, and natural-looking results for each person.
Preservation Rhinoplasty vs. Traditional Nose Surgery
Traditional nose surgery often involves removing cartilage and bone from the nose bridge and tip to smooth bumps and achieve the desired shape. While effective, this method may sometimes lead to unnatural results, an obvious appearance of “work” being done, prolonged swelling, or structural weakness if not executed optimally.
Preservation nose surgery, on the other hand, emphasizes conserving as much of the nasal structure as possible. Instead of aggressively removing bone or cartilage, your plastic surgeon strategically:
- Reshapes the nose by lowering the nasal dorsum internally rather than removing it entirely
- Conserves the dorsal lines for enhanced structural support
- Maintains ligament and cartilage connections to preserve support and function
- Focuses on subtle, natural changes that harmonize with each patient’s face
What are the Benefits of Preservation Rhinoplasty?
Preservation rhinoplasty adopts a more conservative approach to nose surgery that not only reduces the recovery period, but also enhances the longevity and authenticity of the final results. Since this approach takes great care to maintain the supportive structures of the nose, the outcome of preservation rhinoplasty typically looks more natural than other techniques. When performed for good candidates and by a well-trained plastic surgeon, preservation rhinoplasty can:
- Retain a patient’s unique nasal features while enhancing proportions, offering natural results
- Provide a faster recovery, as there’s less tissue trauma and reduced swelling and bruising compared to traditional techniques
- Improve nasal function – by preserving the natural framework of the nose, there’s a lower risk of breathing issues
- Reduce the need for revision surgery, as maintaining structural integrity during the procedure decreases long-term complications
- Conserve the cartilage and ligaments that help maintain the nose’s shape over time, achieving results that last
Not all patients may benefit from the preservation rhinoplasty procedure, so it’s important to openly discuss your concerns and what you hope to achieve with our renowned plastic surgeons. Ideal candidates are patients seeking a more natural nasal refinement with minimal downtime. A consultation with Dr. Gryskiewicz or Dr. Luck is essential to determining the best surgical plan for your goals and anatomy.
How is Preservation Rhinoplasty Performed?
Preservation nose surgery is usually performed under general anesthesia and typically takes between two and three hours. The procedure often begins with a closed approach, meaning the incisions are hidden inside the nose, leaving no visible external scars. Your plastic surgeon carefully accesses the nasal structures and focuses on preserving as much of the natural anatomy as possible.
One of the hallmark techniques of preservation nose surgery is dorsal preservation. Instead of removing a nasal hump from the top down — which occurs during traditional nose surgery — your surgeon carefully lowers the nasal bridge internally by modifying the underlying support structures. This technique helps maintain a smooth, natural contour of the nasal dorsum. The nasal tip can also be refined in a way that retains key ligaments and cartilage for a natural look and long-term support. If necessary, functional improvements such as septoplasty or airway corrections are performed during the same procedure to enhance breathing. Once the desired shape is achieved, incisions are closed and a splint or nasal tape is applied to support the new contour during the initial healing phase.
What Can I Expect From the Preservation Rhinoplasty Recovery Period?
Recovery after preservation rhinoplasty is generally quicker and more comfortable than traditional rhinoplasty due to the minimally invasive nature of the technique. During the first week, patients can expect mild to moderate swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose, with the most noticeable effects occurring in the first few days. A nasal splint is usually worn for 5 to 7 days to protect the new shape and assist with initial healing. Most patients feel well enough to return to work or school within a week.
As the second and third weeks progress, swelling and bruising continue to improve significantly. By the end of the first month, the majority of visible post-operative effects have resolved, although some subtle swelling, especially around the nasal tip, may persist for several months.
Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities and contact sports for three weeks following surgery to minimize the risk of injury. While most patients begin to see the shape of their new nose within the first few weeks, final results typically take 6 to 12 months to fully develop as the last traces of swelling subside.
How Much Does Preservation Rhinoplasty Cost?
The cost of preservation rhinoplasty is ascertained based on the technique(s) utilized, the complexity of the procedure, and the details of your treatment plan, as well as factors like your geographic location, the experience of your plastic surgeon, and the surgical fees associated with any procedure (anesthesia fee, operating facility fee, etc.).
Although aesthetic nose surgery is not covered by insurance, we welcome you to explore our plastic surgery financing options through CareCredit® and ALPHAEON® Credit. For qualified patients, these companies can present both long- and short-term payment plans, each featuring flexible monthly payments and low- to no-interest rates. Our office can answer any questions you may have about the cost of preservation rhinoplasty or nose surgery in general, so please reach out to our Minneapolis practice today.
Dr. Gryskiewicz and Dr. Luck aim to enhance symmetry and facial harmony within the context of your own goals, addressing concerns without sacrificing the natural structures of the nose. If you would like to learn more about preservation rhinoplasty or other advanced nose surgery techniques, please don’t hesitate to contact Gryskiewicz Twin Cities Cosmetic Surgery today.