As you are quickly learning almost all plastic surgery procedures have multiple variations to get the same or similar results.
If you feel that both surgeons understood your wishes for improvement then I would go with the one you felt most comfortable with.
I personally use general anesthesia during my rhinoplasties but it’s possible to do iv sedation in some cases.
Breaking the bone is common to narrow the nasal width but if you are close to an optimal width I could see how both recommendations could be made. (Mahlon Kerr, MD, FACS, Austin Plastic Surgeon)
Overwhelmed After my Nose Job Consults
Intubation during enaesthesia for rhinoplasty makes the procedure safer and more comfortable for the patient, regardless whether the nasal bones have to be re-positioned or not.
It sounds like you would benefit from a third opinion. (Kris Conrad, MD, Toronto Facial Plastic Surgeon)
Rhinoplasty confusion
Rhinoplasty truly involves a leap of faith on the part of the patient as the surgeon is recommending changing the shape of an organ right in the center of your face!
Imaging can show only so much and the result is dependent on the thickness of the overlying skin, the underlying bony structure, etc.
It is impossible to comment on your specific case in the absence of photographs and a comprehensive consultation, involving viewing the interior of the nose using a speculum and a headlight.
Perhaps surgeon #2 was planning an approach involving both the nasal bones and the internal aspects whereas surgeon #1 was addressing cosmetic issues only. i perform the surgeries under either sedation or general anesthesia.
In certain instances, I prefer sedation because, in the absence of intubation, the proportion of the nose to the chin line is clearer to ascertain. If it is a longer procedure, I may opt for general anesthesia. THe point is that no two cases are alike. If you are still confused, definitely consider a third opinion.
You now know exactly what questions to ask and this may enable you not only to select among qualified surgeons but to return to clarify the specifics of the proposed procedure. (Robert L. Kraft, MD, New York Plastic Surgeon)
Differing Professional Opinions about my Nose
I wouldn’t stress too much about the anesthesia unless you yourself have a definite preference. Rhinoplasty can be expertly performed under either sedation or general anesthesia. Surgeons themselves typically have a preference. For example, I have grown to prefer general anesthesia as it allows me to work more efficiently and I know the patient is unaware of the procedure.
However, patients with concerns or fears of general anesthesia can have their procedure with a simple I.V. sedation technique. As for whether or not the nose needs to be ‘broken’ – in my experience if the nasal bridge is going to be reduced usually the nasal bones need to be narrowed – but not always, typically in minor reductions. You could return to the surgeon you felt the most comfortable with and discuss your concerns or you could just see another surgeon if it would help to reassure you. Don’t have surgery without having your concerns addressed. (Jon F. Harrell, DO, Miami Plastic Surgeon)
Get second opinion can help with feeling overwhelmed
OK, don’t be overwhelmed as this is how medicine is praticed. It’s an art, not cook book so different Rhinoplasty Surgeons will definitely do things differently and sometimes drastically so. IMHO of performing Rhinoplasty for over 20 years, general anesthesia using an ET Tube is the safest way to protect your airway during a Rhinoplasty and as such, is the only way I perform or recommend Rhinoplasty. As far as whether or not your bones should be broken, I can’t comment because I haven’t seen your nose but I can tell you that this is typically done if your Rhinoplasty entails removing a large bump from the bridge (top) of your nose or your nose is wide and or crooked from previous nasal trauma.
As you have consultations with well trained, experienced Rhinoplasty surgeons with good reputations, you should listen to the explanations of why things are recommended as much as what’s being recommended. It should make sense or get another opinion and consultation. The fact that you’re overwhelmed may be an indication that you are not yet comfortable with the things that you’ve heard. (Francis R. Palmer, III, MD, Beverly Hills Facial Plastic Surgeon)