Rhinophyma

Directly in the centre of the face, the nose is considered a very important aesthetic segment of one’s overall facial appearance. Often improperly referred to as a “drinker’s nose”, rhinophyma is a progressive condition where the sebaceous glands of the nose  become enlarged, creating an inflamed, bulbous, and even bumpy appearance that can be aesthetically unpleasant for an individual suffering from this condition. The increased size and blood flow to the nasal tissue, when extreme, can cause nasal obstruction and airflow problems, making it difficult to breathe normally.

Rhinophyma can become a significant social problem for those afflicted. Each year, thousands of patients undergo rhinophyma correction procedures to help restore the loss of self-esteem, pride and aesthetic confidence that is often associated with this disorder.

Dr. Barr has earned a reputation as a meticulous and caring surgeon with an exceptional eye for facial symmetry and balance and is known for sculpting a nasal appearance that blends unnoticeably into the rest of the face. Barr Plastic Surgery patients tend to pursue this procedure to eliminate bumps, swelling, redness, malodour, excess tissue, as well as to repair any airflow problems that may have developed.

Educate Yourself on Your Procedure

If you are a patient considering a rhinophyma procedure, please continue reading for further information on this procedure and what you can expect. If you have any questions about rhinophyma correction, or any of our other procedures, please contact us.

Preparing for Your Rhinophyma Procedure

What is the first step in pursuing the rhinophyma procedure?

The first step to enhancing your self-confidence and self-esteem is to schedule your one-on-one consultation with Dr. Barr. The consultation process provides an opportunity for you to obtain important information about the procedure and to have all of your questions answered prior to proceeding with surgery. It also enables Dr. Barr to properly assess you and determine whether you are a suitable candidate for nose surgery.

You should be prepared to discuss your medical history, including any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries, and all current medications. Dr. Barr will be able to answer any questions you may have about the procedure.

During your consultation, Dr. Barr will examine your nose to determine the best treatment approach to meet your particular needs and achieve your aesthetic goals. The size and shape of your nose and the quality of your skin will be carefully evaluated, helping to determine the course of action for your rhinophyma procedure.

The benefits, risks and potential complications associated with the rhinophyma procedure will be thoroughly explained during this consultation. The information provided at this initial consultation will be comprehensive and should enable you to make an informed decision as to whether or not this surgery is the right choice for you. A comprehensive instruction package will be provided to you at the time of consultation, and includes instructions for both before and after surgery.

Can I combine another surgery with my rhinophyma procedure?

It may be possible to schedule another surgery at the same time as your rhinophyma procedure. You should be prepared to discuss all possibilities during your consultation with Dr. Barr.

The Procedure

What will I need to do prior to rhinophyma surgery?

Prior to surgery you will be scheduled for a pre-op session with a Registered Nurse to review your medical history and your post-op instructions. She will review all of the information you will need to know to prepare yourself for surgery.

Where will my rhinophyma procedure be performed?

Your procedure will be performed within the state-of-the-art facilities of Barr Plastic Surgery, located within the Northern Ontario Surgical Centre.

Northern Ontario Surgical Centre has been awarded accreditation by the CAAASF (Canadian Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities) for meeting the standards of a hospital in regards to monitoring, emergency and resuscitation equipment. With two levels and entrances that conceal the actual size of the facility, the centre itself spans 8000 square feet and incorporates fully equipped major and minor operating rooms, a monitored multi-bed recovery area, 10 laser and treatment rooms, spacious consultation areas, private offices to discuss financing options, elegant waiting areas and a private waiting room and secure rear entrance/exit for additional privacy when desired.

How is the rhinophyma procedure performed?

Surgical correction of rhinophyma involves resection of the abnormal nasal growth, subcutaneous tissue and sebaceous glands. The procedure is performed under local anaesthesia and sedation.

Who can I contact if I have any questions or concerns?

During office hours our Patient Coordinators and nursing staff are available to answer any questions or concerns following your surgery. After hours, Dr. Barr is available by pager.

Pricing

How much does a rhinophyma procedure cost?

Patients choosing to invest in their self-confidence and happiness through cosmetic surgery have many options available to make this investment more manageable. Our Patient Coordinators are familiar with various payment options and can facilitate the process for you.

Is full payment required or do you offer a financing plan?

Affording your procedure can be made simpler by using Medicard which enables you to pay for your surgery with monthly payments. Please note that this company is not affiliated in any way with Barr Plastic Surgery. For more information on how financing can help you afford your procedure, visit:

MEDICARD
www.medicard.com
1-888-689-9876

  •  Fax, online, phone application
  • Approval within 1 business day
  • Payment terms: 6 months to 5 years
  • No down payment
  • Rates based on overall credit history (11.9% – 25%)
  • No penalties for early payments
Is my procedure covered by insurance?

Rhinophyma surgery is not usually covered by private or provincial insurance such as OHIP.

What is included in the surgical fee?

The facility fee, surgeon, nurses, anaesthesia and anaesthetist, surgical supplies, and equipment used are all covered in the fees.

You will also be provided with prescriptions for medications to be taken after surgery. These prescriptions are subject to the same coverage you would receive from your medical insurance. If you do not have personal insurance, these medications will be at an additional cost to you.

Is a deposit required? When is it due?

There is a $500 deposit for any surgery under $5,000 and a $1000 deposit for any surgery over $5000.
This deposit is payable upon scheduling a surgery date.  This fee is non-refundable should you change, reschedule or cancel your surgery within 4 weeks of the surgery date.

When is payment for the surgery due?
    Payment for your surgery is due 14 days prior to your surgery date. Payment can be made by:

  • Cash
  • Certified Cheques
  • Mastercard or VISA
  • E-transfers
  • Financing plan

Recovery

Will I need to stay overnight during my surgery?

Rhinophyma surgery is an outpatient procedure and does not require an overnight stay at Barr Plastic Surgery. Following your surgery you will need a friend or family member to pick you up and care for you for 24-48 hours. This person should be familiar with your prescriptions and post-surgery instructions. 

How long will it take me to recover from my rhinophyma procedure?

Dr. Barr’s extensive experience in performing this procedure will help to ensure that your post-operative recovery is minimized. After your procedure, your nose will have a raw surface which takes approximately 8 to 10 days to heal.  During this time, an antibiotic ointment should be applied 3 times per day.

Once healed, your nose may be slightly pink in colour for an additional 10 to 14 days, which is completely normal.  The discoloration can be camouflaged with makeup, which is available for purchase at the upper level of the facility.  Once rhinophyma is treated, the results of the procedure are long-term.

Dr. Barr and his highly trained medical staff will be available for any questions or concerns throughout the healing process. 

Will I have scarring?

Dr. Barr takes every precaution to make your scarring as minimal as possible. However, as with any surgery, there is the risk of scarring from the incisions. Once your incisions have healed there are products that can be used to minimize the redness in scars as well as improve the texture. Reusable silicone strips as well as medical grade topical scar creams are available for purchase that will help to reduce the discolouration found in new scars. Sunscreen should be applied daily for six months after surgery. Precautions to minimize scarring will be discussed in detail during your consultation.

More information on Rhinophyma

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