Recently-developed technologies have resulted in dramatic improvements in many plastic surgery procedures over the past few decades. Rhinoplasty is no different from these, and in fact, innovations have greatly shaped the field of nose job surgery over the past few years. One new technology, known as the Sonopet Ultrasonic Aspirator, has led to the development of 'sonic rhinoplasty.'
Originally designed for neurosurgery, this device enables more precise control over the changes in both the bone and soft tissue creating the shape of the nose. The Sonopet works by shaping delicate tissue using ultrasonic vibration to control a fine metallic tip. The handheld device then removes fluid and the tissue that has been trimmed away using a thin tube with gentle suction. This 'aspiration' feature allows the surgeon to remain focused on reshaping the nose.
The advantage of sonar rhinoplasty is that it enables the surgeon to gently trim away excess tissues without injuring nearby nerves, blood vessels, or cartilage, leading to more precise rhinoplasty results.
The downside of the procedure is that sonic rhinoplasty must be performed as an 'open rhinoplasty' procedure, requiring an exterior incision in the skin between the nostrils. This requirement enables the surgeon to see the underlying nasal structure and properly position the handheld device. However, this short incision usually leaves no noticeable scar, and most patients find that the results of sonic rhinoplasty are well worth the additional incision.
This 21st-century form of rhinoplasty enables surgeons to sculpt bone in ways that could never be accomplished a generation ago.
