Neal D. Goldman, MD - Facial Plastic Surgeon | Atlanta, GA and Winston-Salem, NC
Rhinoplasty Surgery

History of Rhinoplasty Surgery

Rhinos – nose (in Greek)
Plastikos – to shape – to mold (in Greek)

Egypt – 3000 B.C. – The first recorded plastic surgeries were performed

India – 800 B.C.
Rhinoplasty surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed today.  It is not a new surgery but rather dates as far back as 800 B.C., in India, where it came into existence to repair the noses of criminals.  Sushata Samgita, an Indian surgeon, developed the surgical procedure to improve the shape of noses that had been injured or cut off as a form of punishment used for thieves.  These convicts served as examples, and this form of punishment was meant as a warning to discourage thievery.  When they were able to, many of the convicts sought to have their noses restored.  Sushata developed a method of “skin transplantation” to repair noses and to help remove the stigma otherwise experienced by these convicts.

14th – 16th Centuries - The Renaissance Period Flourished and ushered in major technological and societal advancements in plastic surgery.  During this era of humanistic rebirth in classical art, architecture and learning, medical techniques advanced as well.  This progress continues to this day.

1800’s – European and American physicians began to experiment with different cosmetic surgical procedures to enhance the shape, appearance and functionality of the nose.  Medical professionals began to recognize and acknowledge the aesthetic values of cosmetic surgery. 

1887 – First Intranasal Rhinoplasty surgery was performed by John Orland Roe.  Jacques Joseph transformed the surgery into a “medical art” in 1889.  His goal was to help people change the shape of their nose when it caused them social embarrassment.

World Wars I & II – Military surgeons developed more advanced and effective techniques for Rhinoplasty surgey.  Out of necessity these surgeons were forced to create effective techniques for repairing injuries of those grossly wounded in battle.  The extensive facial injuries often resulted in deformities that required immediate attention.  Necessity then fostered life-saving and face-saving surgeries that restored not only the nose and face – but also functionality.  During this brief and intense era, major advances came about in reconstructive faciomaxillary procedures.  The related improvements included advancements in anesthesia and antiseptic techniques as well as in Rhinoplasty surgery - specifically.

1931 - Western Hemisphere surgeons formed societies to further the advancements of plastic surgery.  During this era the American Society of Plastic Surgeons was established, among others. This organization represents surgeons certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) as well as The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.  The member surgeons of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons are dedicated to the highest standards of patient care and have met rigorous requirements to achieve their standing and membership with the board. Certification by the ABPS is considered the “gold standard” for plastic surgeons because it signifies this surgeon has had formal training in an accredited plastic surgery residency program.  This involves 5 years of intense, hands on training allowing the surgeon to gain much experience and expertise in his/her area of specialization.  It also ensures this surgeon is qualified to perform cosmetic and reconstructive surgical procedures of every kind.

1950’s to present – techniques and technologies continually improved and today Rhinoplasty is one of the most common and sought after surgeries.  Rhinoplasty was considered a luxury enjoyed only by the rich and famous for decades.  Today it is available to anyone who wants or needs it to correct functional deficits or to enhance their appearance.

1964 – AAFPRS – American Association of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery is formed as three existing societies merge together.

Goal of Rhinoplasty Surgery – The primary goal of Rhinoplasty surgery is to create a nose that looks and blends harmoniously with the other facial features.  The major technological and procedural advancements that have evolved, since its origin, have made this a reality.  Rhinoplasty surgery, whether done for cosmetic enhancement or reconstructive purposes, is safe, effective and one of the most rewarding surgeries performed today.  

Today Rhinoplasty is used to correct a nose that is too big, too bulbous at the tip, too narrow or too wide in the bridge, has a hump in the middle or perhaps sways like a saddle-back and many more. This requires a surgeon who is skilled in each procedure as well as one who is “artistic” and has an eye for being able to bring the nose into proper proportion with the other facial features. 

When Rhinoplasty is performed to correct “functional” problems and to restore or create proper breathing, this also requires a surgeon who is skilled in all rhino procedures and techniques.  The bottom line, when considering Rhinoplasty surgery for whatever reason, is the importance of choosing a surgeon who is skilled in all areas and qualified to perform your surgery.  Choosing a surgeon who is “board certified” ensures that the surgeon you are considering is qualified, highly trained and experienced with years of performing surgeries, and that your results will be very pleasing. 

Dr. Neal Goldman is a skilled, experienced, facial plastic surgeon who is specialized in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery of the face and neck.  He is board certified by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolarnygology-Head and Neck Surgery. 

 

 

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