Rhinoplasty - Form, Function, and Natural Results

Rhinoplasty - Form, Function, and Natural Results

In this episode of Beauty and the Beasts, plastic surgeons Dr. Sam Jejurikar and Dr. Salvatore Pacella explore rhinoplasty, one of the most technically demanding and misunderstood procedures in plastic surgery.

Rhinoplasty is often thought of as cosmetic nose reshaping, but the surgeons explain why it is just as much about structure and breathing as it is about appearance. The discussion highlights why rhinoplasty requires a unique skill set, why experience matters, and how small changes can have a major impact on both aesthetics and airflow.

Dr. Jejurikar and Dr. Pacella compare open and closed rhinoplasty techniques and explain why the choice depends on surgical goals rather than patient requests. They discuss cartilage support, tip shaping, and why the small scar associated with open rhinoplasty is usually insignificant.

The episode addresses common patient misconceptions, including the desire to copy celebrity noses. The surgeons explain why nasal skin quality, facial proportions, and individual anatomy make this unrealistic and why the goal should always be for the nose to fit the face while preserving identity and character.

Male and female rhinoplasty differences are discussed, with a focus on subtlety in male patients and the risks of over reduction. The surgeons explain how masculine nasal features differ from feminine ones and why preserving these differences is critical.

A significant portion of the conversation focuses on functional rhinoplasty and breathing. Dr. Pacella explains how airway evaluation, septal alignment, and internal nasal valve support are essential parts of planning surgery. Dr. Jejurikar discusses how cosmetic maneuvers can unintentionally affect breathing if not carefully managed.

Recovery is covered in detail, including what patients can expect in the first few weeks, why swelling resolves gradually, and why final results continue to refine over a full year. Dr. Pacella also shares his personal experience undergoing rhinoplasty for breathing issues and how it shaped his approach to patient care.

This episode is ideal for patients considering rhinoplasty, those researching cosmetic or functional nose surgery, and clinicians interested in the intersection of aesthetics and airway preservation.