Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty

How Does Piezo Rhinoplasty Work?

A piezotome is an energy device that delivers high-speed sound waves to create precise cuts in the bone without cutting the soft tissue surrounding it. The ultrasonic wavelength is specific for bone and preserves the surrounding skin, nerves, periosteum, and mucosa. By minimizing soft tissue trauma, there is less surgical bleeding and less bruising around the eyes.

The tip inserts have multiple sizes, shapes, and applications. In addition to precise, highly controllable bone cuts, the piezotome can shave, rasp, blend, and contour the nasal bones before and after osteotomies. Greater surgeon control will lead to better patient outcomes.

Who Are the Best Candidates For an Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Kolstad uses ultrasonic energy to create a smoother, more precise contour of the nasal bridge.  Ideal candidates for ultrasonic rhinoplasty have wide nasal bones, thick nasal bones, large dorsal humps, or crooked noses. Good candidates for piezo rhinoplasty in San Diego also have generally good health, realistic expectations, and are prepared for at least 1 week of downtime. There will still be some bruising and swelling, but in many cases, it will be significantly less with ultrasonic rhinoplasty.

What to Expect on the Day of Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Surgery

Your surgery will be performed at Dr. Kolstad’s surgery center in San Diego, where you’ll be greeted by our team and prepared for the procedure. After reviewing the surgical plan together, you’ll meet the board-certified anesthesiologist who will administer general anesthesia, and once you’re asleep, Dr. Kolstad will begin by carefully exposing the nasal framework and using the ultrasonic piezotome to contour and refine the nasal bones with minimal disruption to the surrounding soft tissues.

Depending on the complexity of your case, surgery generally takes two to four hours. Afterward, you’ll spend time in our recovery suite while our team monitors your progress and provides detailed aftercare instructions. You’ll return home the same day under the care of a friend or family member.

Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Recovery

One of the greatest advantages of ultrasonic rhinoplasty is its faster, smoother recovery. Most patients notice significantly less bruising around the eyes compared to traditional rhinoplasty. Although every patient heals differently, most report only mild pressure or congestion rather than severe pain. Swelling continues to improve over the next few weeks, with residual puffiness fading gradually over several months. Final results reveal themselves between six months and one year, when the nasal tissues are fully healed.

Where Does Dr. Kolstad Perform Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty?

In 2024, Dr. Kolstad opened a state-of-the-art surgery center at his San Diego office. Our surgery center is on the fourth floor, offering expansive views and natural lighting throughout. It was important to Dr. Kolstad to design an OR that felt warm and inviting, rather than the traditional, cold, enclosed spaces found in most operating rooms.

On their way into surgery, our patients are greeted by white marble floors, blue skies shining through large windows, and the privacy of a single OR in a surgery center. We love showcasing our surgery center and would happily give you a tour during your consultation.

The OR features the most innovative and modern functionalities, including the amazing privacy glass! With the flip of a switch, the OR goes from transparent floor to ceiling windows to opaque, private. If you want to see more of our office and stunning surgical center, click here.

Dr. Kolstad performs piezo rhinoplasty under general anesthesia using board-certified anesthesiologists.

What’s the First Step?

If you’re considering getting a rhinoplasty, and you’re not sure which method may be the best for your specific nasal anatomy and goals, the best first step you can take is to schedule a comprehensive, personalized consultation with Dr. Kolstad at his La Jolla office. During this visit, you’ll discuss your cosmetic goals and functional concerns in detail. Dr. Kolstad will perform a full nasal and facial assessment, often using computer imaging to simulate realistic surgical outcomes. This visual planning process helps align expectations and ensures you feel confident about your potential results.

You’ll also learn which aspects of your nasal structure could benefit most from ultrasonic technology versus traditional reshaping tools. Once you’ve developed a surgical plan together, our team will guide you through scheduling, preoperative instructions, and any necessary medical clearances.