While it was first invented in the 19th century, rhinoplasty procedures did not become widespread until the 1970s. Since then, nose jobs have gone through multiple shifts, providing patients with progressively better results as time goes on. In recent years, there has been a new development that has taken the cosmetology industry by storm: ultrasonic rhinoplasty.
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a surgical nasal reshaping technique that utilizes advanced ultrasonic saws and files. This technique grants practitioners greater control, giving them the ability to achieve more accurate results in shaping and refining the nasal bones. Beyond that, it ensures that vital structures of the nasal dorsum will be preserved so that the patient’s natural look is not altered too much (this approach is known as preservative rhinoplasty).
While this new procedure comes with obvious benefits, the question still remains: is ultrasonic rhinoplasty better than the traditional approach?
Defining ‘ultrasonic’
The ultrasonic system involves a tool known as a piezotome, which generates ultrasonic energy. It can be calibrated to focus on hard structures without affecting the softer surrounding areas (skin). Because of this attribute, ultrasonic procedures cause no burning or damage to the skin.
Ultrasonic technology involves highly-specialized saws that are designed to treat various nose types, making it suitable for use with all rhinoplasty procedures. As stated before, it is a great advantage to practitioners when performing preservative rhinoplasty procedures. This is simply due to the fact that ultrasonic technology allows for more accuracy and precision, ensuring that no unwanted changes are made. The tools used in a traditional rhinoplasty procedure do not provide the same level of ease to practitioners.
So which one is better?
Overall, ultrasonic rhinoplasty procedures are leading the way thanks to their precise results. That said, patients will need to choose a procedure based on the changes they need made. Patients who are looking for big changes in their noses can rely on traditional methods to achieve this, as there is less of a focus on preservation and more on modification. Patients who are looking for more subtle changes that preserve their natural look will benefit the most from ultrasonic rhinoplasty.
What is the takeaway?
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a game-changer in the world of nose jobs. It has allowed practitioners to elevate the quality of results by giving them more control over the work. With any surgical procedure, quality must be prioritized above all else. That said, it is vital that patients choose an experienced practitioner like Dr. Halaas to carry out this procedure. In fact, she lectured on Ultrasonic (Piezosurgery) Rhinoplasty at the American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery annual meeting.