Pollybeak Deformity After Rhinoplasty
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As a subset of facial plastic surgery, rhinoplasty (or “nose job”) modifies the appearance and/or function of the nose. In most instances, it’s a risk-free operation, but problems do happen occasionally. A pollybeak deformity, a side effect of prior rhinoplasty, is the source of this worry.
This page seeks to give a thorough summary of pollybeak deformity, the several forms of defects, and the several treatment choices open to patients.
What is a Pollybeak Deformity?
A pollybeak deformity after rhinoplasty surgery, also known as supratip deformity, is a common complication that affects many rhinoplasty patients across New Jersey. This condition is characterized by an excessive fullness or convexity in the nasal profile, specifically in the area just above the tip of the nose, giving it a characteristic bird-like appearance. The name ‘Pollybeak’ is derived from this distinctive parrot beak appearance.
Several elements can lead to this malformation, including poor healing, development of scar tissue, or inadequate or aggressive removal of cartilage during the first rhinoplasty operation.
In some cases, it may be due to the formation of excess supratip tissue or unexpected scar tissue growth. Inexperienced surgeons are the primary cause of this problem because they do not comprehend the anatomy of the nose or how it will recover from rhinoplasty surgery. Some patients experience pollybeak deformity even after undergoing a second revision procedure.
Note that some patients mistake the swelling that follows surgery for the pollybeak deformity. This complication might be concealed by the swelling. After rhinoplasty, swelling may persist for up to a year. Until then, you cannot be certain if you have this issue.
The deformity can be identified as early as 1-2 months post-surgery, but in some cases, it may not become apparent until 3-6 months after the procedure. The type of rhinoplasty done, the surgical method employed, and personal recovery traits all contribute generally to the risk factors for a pollybeak deformity.
Types of Beak Nose Deformity
There are two main types of pollybeak deformity: cartilaginous pollybeak deformity and soft tissue pollybeak deformity.
Cartilaginous Pollybeak Deformity
An overabundance of cartilage in the supratip region of the nose causes a cartilaginous pollybeak deformity. This can occur if the surgeon removes too much cartilage during the main rhinoplasty operation or if the nasal tip cartilage is not sufficiently supported, drooping and producing a beak-like appearance. Correcting a soft tissue pollybeak deformity usually needs a revision rhinoplasty to remove the extra cartilage and rebuild the nose tip, hence it is usually more difficult than correcting another deformity.
Soft Tissue Pollybeak Deformity
On the other hand, a soft tissue pollybeak deformity is caused by an excess of scar tissue or swelling in the supratip area. This might happen if the patient is prone to create extra scar tissue or if the skin does not heal correctly following surgery. Sometimes scar tissue formation is so extreme that it causes the supratip area to show clearly fullness, which results in the distinct bird-like look. Usually non-surgical techniques like steroid injections or dermal fillers are used in treatment for a soft tissue pollybeak deformity.
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Treatment Options for a Prominent Nasal Deformity After Rhinoplasty
Treating a pollybeak after rhinoplasty depends on its severity and the patient’s circumstances. For soft tissue Pollybeak defects, non-surgical therapies such dermal fillers or steroid injections are sometimes successful. More severe cases—especially those involving extra cartilage—may call for a revision rhinoplasty.
Steroid Injections
Steroid injections are a non-surgical treatment option for mild to moderate soft tissue pollybeak deformities. By helping to lower inflammation and extra scar tissue, a steroid injected into the supratip area can assist to restore a more natural nose shape. Usually, a clinic environment allows this less invasive treatment choice to be executed. Still, it could take numerous sessions to get the expected outcomes.
Liquid Nose Job (Dermal Fillers)
Dermal fillers—also referred to as a liquid nose job—offer still another non-surgical treatment choice. To fix minor flaws in particular nose sections, a filler substance is injected into those places. Dermal fillers can help to flatten the nasal profile and lessen the look of a soft tissue pollybeak deformity. Patients looking for a non-invasive alternative may find this treatment appealing, but the outcomes are transient and the operation would have to be repeated every six to twelve months.
Revision Rhinoplasty (Corrective Surgery)
Particularly in cases involving extra cartilage or poor healing from a past rhinoplasty operation, revision rhinoplasty is a surgical treatment sometimes done to rectify more severe cases of pollybeak deformity. To get a balanced and natural-looking nose, this corrective surgery first evaluates the nasal structure then carefully reshapes and repositioning of the nasal tissues.
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia and can take anywhere from 1-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the case. It is a more invasive option compared to steroid injections or dermal fillers, but it can provide more permanent and significant results. However, patients should be aware that revision rhinoplasty carries its risk factors, including scarring, breathing problems, diminished skin elasticity, and infection.
After surgery, the patient may experience swelling and bruising, which typically subsides within 1-2 weeks. The full recovery and final results can be seen after 3-6 months once the nose has completely healed and settled into its new shape.
PATIENTS GALLERY
*All patients are unique and individual results may vary.
The Importance of Choosing an Experienced Plastic Surgeon
Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon is crucial when considering any rhinoplasty, especially a revision procedure. The surgeon’s expertise in rhinoplasty procedures, understanding of nasal anatomy, and ability to manage potential complications are all critical factors in achieving successful results.
In the case of pollybeak deformity, it is particularly important to choose a surgeon who has a deep understanding of the underlying causes and can provide a comprehensive treatment plan tailored to the individual patient’s needs. This includes the technical aspects of surgery and the ability to communicate effectively with patients, understand their aesthetic goals, and provide realistic expectations.
Dr. Daniel G. Becker at the Becker Rhinoplasty Center in New Jersey is a renowned facial plastic surgeon with significant contributions to the field of rhinoplasty. Known for prioritizing patient happiness and aiming for natural, un-operated looks, Dr. Becker’s compassionate care and exceptional results have earned him recognition from multiple organizations.
Patients considering corrective surgery for pollybeak deformity can request a consultation online to discuss potential treatment options and expectations.
