When it comes to rhinoplasty, finding the right surgeon can be one of the most challenging and nerve-wracking parts of the process. Rhinoplasty is notorious for being a challenging and artistic procedure, requiring a highly skilled and specially trained facial plastic surgeon to produce consistently good results for patients. In the early days of cosmetic nasal surgery, patients were mostly given similar results, no matter what their other facial features looked like. Today, surgeons understand the importance of facial balance and the importance of the nose being in harmony with the rest of the face, pulling the whole look together. Despite the United States’ rich and diverse culture, however, many surgeons are ill-equipped to customize a rhinoplasty procedure for non-Caucasian patients. So how do you go about seeking a qualified ethnic rhinoplasty surgeon, and what makes the procedure different?
Background on Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Ethnic rhinoplasty simply refers to nasal surgery for people of non-Caucasian backgrounds. The nasal structure, skin, and cartilage often have varying qualities, presenting a challenge for surgeons who are unfamiliar with different types of noses.
An additional layer to ethnic rhinoplasty is the facial balance, harmony, and ethnic identity. Most patients who seek cosmetic nose surgery are not looking to get a more “Western” look, but rather a beautiful, natural-looking nose that harmonizes with the rest of the facial features and preserves ethnic identity.
Criteria for a Qualified Surgeon
Choosing your rhinoplasty surgeon is not always a quick and simple process. It is important to be patient in your search, and wait until you find the right surgeon, who meets all the below criteria and with whom you have rapport. Remember—a rhinoplasty lasts forever, so do not skimp on the planning part of your rhinoplasty. Here are some qualities to look for in an ethnic rhinoplasty surgeon:
Certifications
An expert rhinoplasty surgeon will be board certified—ideally double board certified in facial plastic surgery and otolaryngology (ear, nose, and throat). These certifications signal a high level of training and knowledge about both the form and function of the nose.
General Rhinoplasty Expertise
A specialist should have expertise in every type of rhinoplasty procedure, and be flexible enough to tailor the procedure to suit the patient’s needs. This typically means that the surgeon has also had a great deal of experience in rhinoplasty over many years.
Communication Skills
The only way to get what you want out of plastic surgery is effective communication between you and your surgeon. Choose a specialist who can translate your dream into a preview, and with whom you can be on the same page with for your goals.
Diverse Patient Base
Obviously, if you are seeking out an ethnic rhinoplasty surgeon, you will need to be sure that he or she has successfully worked with a diverse patient base and created a range of good outcomes.
Respect for Preserving Ethnic Identity
Ethnic identity is different for each person, and is difficult to pinpoint or define. This makes preserving ethnic identity a challenge for doctors, but the best rhinoplasty surgeons will work hard to communicate with each patient and customize the procedure to suit his or her needs.
Research & Consultations
Because of the complexity of ethnic rhinoplasty, it is important to do thorough research and make the most out of your in-person consultations. Be sure to select your candidates carefully, and prepare specific questions before you arrive at your consultation. Remember—never choose a surgeon you do not feel comfortable with!
Starting Your Search
It can be scary to begin your search for the surgeon who will transform your nose. Remember, the consultation is just a preliminary meeting to allow you to discuss your needs and get to know prospective surgeons. It is not a binding contract, and it is usually best to meet with a few candidates before you make a decision.
If you would like to discuss your case with a rhinoplasty expert, then consider meeting with acclaimed rhinoplasty specialist Dr. Stuart Bentkover. Dr. Bentkover has spent decades honing his skills in the art of rhinoplasty, and has helped people of all different ethnic backgrounds get beautiful, natural-looking results that promote facial balance and harmony. To schedule a consultation with Dr. Bentkover, call Bentkover Facial Plastic Surgery in Worcester (508-363-6500) or Stoneham (617-247-0033), MA today.