Tip Grafting
Is tip grafting in a rhinoplasty procedure very complicated?
When we hear the word “tip”, it doesn’t make much of an impact, does it? Not like when “bulk” is used or “the body” of something is referred to. The tip seems like just a small, almost negligible part that does not necessarily need a whole lot of attention focused on it. This sort of thinking has usually proven to be a mistake. There have been books devoted to the consequences of reaching the tip or tipping point in any sort of dynamic system: essentially, it is where everything changes. And we all know how disastrous it can be to ignore the tip of iceberg!
When it comes to rhinoplasty, paying attention to the tip of the nose has to be a primary concern. While the bridge is, of course, also important, the basic character of the nose starts with the contour of the nasal tip. This comes from a combination of various factors, including length, width, incline and skin qualities. All of these must be taken into consideration when doing any sort of grafting, especially nasal tip grafting. The successful outcome for tip grafting will be determined by the surgeon’s ability to achieve the desired shape and appearance while maintaining the appropriate size, strength, curvature and overall positioning of the support cartilage and ligaments.
Skin grafting as a means of repair and reconstruction following some sort of accident or injury has been done for thousands of years. The practice of cosmetic surgeons using grafts for their patients has also been going on for quite some time, many believe starting with Sicilian Antonio Branca, in the 1400’s. World War I, however, showed a marked increase in the need for skin grafting due to the widespread damage and disfigurement caused by artillery fire and the new and explosive impact of shrapnel.
Anytime skin grafting is done, it requires an in-depth understanding of skin characteristics. This means taking into account skin tone, thickness, racial differences and cartilage strength. When the target area is a medium to large area on the body, it is important to work with a skilled surgeon. However, when the grafting is being done on the most essential part of the most prominent feature on the face, it demands working with only the most highly skilled and experienced rhinoplasty surgeon.
Reshaping the tip of the nose can have a tremendous impact on a patient’s appearance and the resulting boost in confidence can be immeasurable. Due to the diverse anatomy of the nose tip, this particular surgery, however, has always been one of the most challenging. It is often the reason for the need for follow-up corrections or revisions, which can be especially problematic if the underlying structure has been irrevocably compromised. Consulting a highly skilled revision rhinoplasty surgeon in such a case is, obviously, crucial. More important, however, is finding the most qualified surgeon to do the initial procedure and avoid issues that lead to the need for second and third surgeries.
If you are considering nose surgery to reshape the tip of your nose or for any other reason, you could not make a better decision than consulting with Dr. Geoffrey Tobias, New York City’s only plastic surgeon exclusively practicing rhinoplasty. His experience, compassion and dedication have combined to have him recognized 12 times as “best in his field” by New York Magazine. To request a consultation, simply click here.