By Dr. James Banich

Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon

The nose is the center of the face.  Subtle changes in the shape and size of the nose can make a major impact on the entire facial aesthetic. It is for that reason that altering the shape of the nose is, in my opinion, one of the most challenging and rewarding procedures in all of plastic surgery.

Rhinoplasty refers to the procedure where the shape of the nose is altered by making changes to its bony and cartilaginous framework. This can be done be removing bone or cartilage, suturing the cartilage to reshape it, adding cartilage, or fracturing the nose to straighten it.  A myriad of techniques can be employed to change the structure and function of the nose.

Septoplasty is a functional procedure to straighten the internal nasal septum to improve breathing. Often, a deviated septum may be present which can lead to impaired breathing. This may have occurred secondary to recent or past nasal trauma which may or may not have resulted in changes to the external nose.

Septorhinoplasty refers to the combination of the two procedures, where both the internal and external nose are treated. The septum can be altered to both improve breathing, as well as provide cartilage for grafting, supporting and reshaping the nose.

In my practice, it is the marriage of these procedures that I find the most exciting. To combine the artistic aspects of creating a more refined, aesthetically pleasing nose while providing the functional benefit of improved function and breathing, are the areas of cosmetic surgery I find most satisfying.

Prior to becoming a plastic surgeon, I was boarded in Otolaryngology, or Ears, Nose, and Throat (ENT), where I received extensive training in functional nasal disorders.  It is this early focus that grants me a profound respect for the intricacies of nasal anatomy as well as the techniques to avoid breathing dysfunction after cosmetic rhinoplasty.

My personal aesthetic philosophy revolves around listening. My goal is to use my skills to get you the results you desire, while minimizing risk. I always tailor my approach to match my patient’s goals. I will not upsell, and if I do not feel I can meet the patient’s expectations, it is best not to operate. My goal is to provide long standing natural results that foster beauty and improve function.

Call to schedule a consultation if you are:

• Dissatisfied with the shape and appearance of your nose
• Unable to breathe effectively from one or both nostrils
• Have a history of nasal trauma

At Vanguard Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics, we see each encounter with a patient as a tremendous privilege. I cherish the opportunity to treat each and every patient.

Dr. James Banich is a board-certified Plastic Surgeon and Otolaryngologist. Dr. Banich is an active member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, American Academy of Facial Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery, and American Academy of Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery. Dr. Banich is part of Vanguard Plastic Surgery & Aesthetics and Vanguard Skin Specialists.

Vanguard Skin Specialists began as a Colorado Springs dermatology practice and now has additional office in Canon City, Pueblo, and Woodland Park. Vanguard specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of skin cancer, and also offers general dermatology, plastic surgery, and aesthetic medicine.