Sub Nasal Lift
Would a subnasal lift be beneficial to you?
If your upper lip is thin, with an arch line that tends to flatten, you may have been born this way or it could happen as you age.
A subnasal lift can be performed to enhance a long upper lip with little dental show, it will help shape your lip, to show more of the red (in your lip).
The consultation:
The initial consultation is very important, so that you may discuss with Dr. Bourget , the changes you would like. Facial rejuvenating is a very individualized procedure, therefore Dr. Bourget will explain to you the different types of surgeries, injections, laser resurfacing, and/or liposuction, the best method for you will be discussed at that time. The doctor will suggest the procedure that he feels would best conform with the look you want. Photos may be taken at this time. Medical conditions should be brought to the doctor’s attention at this time (high blood pressure, blood clotting problems, tendency to form excessive scars, etc.). Make sure you provide all information about medication on your questionnaire, including aspirin, vitamins and any natural products that you are taking. It is very important to advise the staff if you are a smoker.
Preparation:
The preparation for subnasal lift may start a few months prior to surgery. Dr. Bourget may want to see you for a pre-op appointment 2 to 8 weeks before your actual surgery date.
Certain facial creams may be stopped a few days before surgery. No makeup should be worn the day of surgery. Your hair should be washed prior to surgery, and dried without any hair products.
It is advised that you purchase all necessities that will be needed during your recovery; such as medication, ice, ointment; prior to your surgery.
Medications may be altered at this time (if possible). Smoking should be stopped, ideally, 2 weeks prior to surgery; smoking inhibits blood flow to the skin, and may interfere with the healing of incisions.
Surgery:
Dr. Bourget makes his incision at the base of the nose, following the natural creases, he will then pull the upper lip to show more of your lip (red), remove excess tissue and place sutures. This treatment is permanent.
After your surgery, the nurses will go over all instructions with the person that will be accompanying you at home.
There is usually no significant discomfort after surgery; pain medication will be prescribed by Dr. Bourget to lessen any discomfort you will have.
Some numbness of the skin is quite normal; it will disappear in a few months.
The sutures will be removed in a week to 10 days.
Keep your incision moist with ointment at all times.
Risks involved:
Problems involving subnasal lifts are rare, but may occur, you need to be informed about such possibilities.
The risks may include swelling, bruising, bleeding (hematoma), infection, prolonged pain tingling or numbness that may be permanent. Asymmetry, nerve damage with associated muscle weakness (facial nerve), skin necrosis. Non healing wound, skin loss around incision, delayed healing difficulty breathing. Allergies to medication or sutures may occur. Asymmetry of lip, hypertrophic scar, asymmetry of nasal opening, ptosis of nasal tip, changes in columella and nasal sills, incomplete correction and over correction. Other surgeries maybe required (incomplete result).
Recovery:
Cold or ice packs help to reduce swelling, bruising, and pain. Use frozen peas in the package or crush ice cubes and put the ice into a zip-lock bag. This should help not hurt. If the ice feels too uncomfortable, don’t use it as often. Ice 20 minutes per hour, when not asleep. (Stop icing if it gives you a headache). We recommend that you do NOT eat salty foods following surgery. This will only increase your swelling.
Recovery time will vary, depending on your surgery, usually a period of 7 to 12 days will be needed.
Keep incisions clean by using a solution of _ water and _ peroxide twice daily and apply ointment 4 times per day, keeping incisions moist will prevent crusting and scaring.
Avoid strenuous activities, heavy housework for at least 2 weeks. Alcohol, steam baths and saunas should be avoided for several months.
Your first post-op appointment will be scheduled the day after surgery, and other follow-up appointments will be scheduled depending on your progress.
Do not apply makeup or facial creams until Dr. Bourget feels you are ready.
It is normal for some patients to experience a brief period of “let-down” or depression after cosmetic surgery. Some may subconsciously have expected to feel and look better “instantly,” even though they rationally understand that this will not be the case. Patients commonly question their decision to have surgery during the first few days after surgery. As the healing occurs, these thoughts usually disappear quickly. If you feel depressed, understanding that this is as a “natural” phase of the healing process may help you to cope with this emotional state.