Rhinoplasty is the medical term for corrective surgery to the nose. This procedure can be purely cosmetic as well as it can be done for medical reasons such as eliminating breathing problems and correcting deformity. Some will argue that correcting a deformity is cosmetic and not medical but it depends upon the degree of the deformity and your definition of deformity. One of the newest waves in rhinoplasty is laser surgery. It cannot be used in all cases however but it boasts advantages of quicker healing and the fact that it is a non-invasive procedure. This gives it a shorter recovery time, which is a great bonus. Even though the procedure is quick and easy you will feel a little pain after the anesthesia wears off but it will feel only like sunburn.

When Laser Rhinoplasty is Used and How it is Done

We mentioned above that this method of surgery is not for everyone. It is used to correct deformities caused by thick skin – the skin condition is known as rhinophyma. The laser removes the thickness of the skin and causes the nose to have a more normal appearance. This surgery is done with the Carbon Dioxide (CO2) method. The layer works by heating the skin enough to cause some damage on the outer most layers. The body then reacts to this by healing this damage; the outer, thicker skin sheds and reveals the softer, smoother skin below. You would basically feel like you have sunburn after the anesthesia wears off.

Factors Affecting Eligibility for Surgery

Even if you have rhinophyma, you may not be eligible for laser rhinoplasty, here are no the exclusions;

• Persons with clotting disorders

• Insulin dependent diabetics

• Recent sun tan; this is due to the fact that the skin is still recuperating

There may be other factors still that deem you ineligible for this procedure such as skin type and condition (i.e. has your skin been damaged in say a fire?); your doctor will let you know about these if they are applicable to you.

This type method is considered a procedure by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) as such it will not be covered by medical insurance unless the deformity is inhibiting your breathing or there is other medical evidence which suggests that it is life threatening. The costs of laser surgery are pretty high and you will need to dig deep to find finances to fund it.

Laser rhinoplasty is used to correct nasal deformities such as rhinophyma. It is an easy, non-invasive procedure with little recovery time. It basically helps the body to shed the extra layer of skin by damaging it. There are some who will not be eligible for this treatment for more than one reason. It is also very unlikely that your health insurance company will cover any cost related with this surgery. Your physicians will be able to answer any questions you have pertaining to your eligibility and getting this surgery. Even though this surgery is not for everyone, it might be something you could try if you happen to be eligible for it.