Dr. Zahi Abou Chacra is a facial plastic surgeon in Montreal with expertise in rhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction. Having spent years refining the most advanced surgical techniques, he now has a special interest in preservation rhinoplasty, a new way of enhancing and maintaining the natural structure of the nose. A detail-oriented surgeon with a patient-centric approach, Dr. Chacra assists patients in accentuating their inherent features while preserving the distinctive personality of their face.

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Q: There’s been quite a bit of hype about preservation rhinoplasty recently.  What exactly is it, and what makes it different from traditional rhinoplasty?

DR. ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: Preservation rhinoplasty is a procedure that reshapes the nose to preserve as much natural tissue and cartilage as possible. In traditional rhinoplasty, we often remove or cut parts of the nasal bridge to reduce a hump. With preservation, we adjust things from underneath and reshape without disturbing the surface structure. The goal is to keep the nose looking natural, but more refined.

Q: Who is the ideal candidate for this type of procedure?

DR. ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: This is a great option for patients who have the dorsal hump or want a straighter, more well-balanced profile, but don’t need a complete reconstruction. If the internal anatomy allows, and it doesn’t for everyone, we can create significant changes while maintaining the overall structural integrity of the nose.  It’s typically preferred by those who prefer a subtle “I had something done, but you can’t quite tell what” result.

Q: What are the primary benefits of preservation rhinoplasty over older techniques?

DR. ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: One, recovery is usually easier. The swelling is not as bad, and because we aren’t taking away much tissue, the healing process is more predictable.  Patients also report more satisfaction with the long-term effect of the results, which appear more natural. It’s one way to refine the nose without entirely transforming its character.

Q: Is this a permanent fix, or are follow-up procedures sometimes needed?

DR. ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: It is permanent in that the changes we make are long-lasting. But as with all facial surgery, subtle changes will continue to take place as your body heals and ages. In most cases, however, a touch-up isn’t necessary.  If we do a good job the first time and have a plan, the need for secondary operations is rare.

Q: What do you usually say to patients who are nervous about changing their face?

DR. ZAHI ABOU CHACRA: That’s perfectly normal. The nose is front and center of the face, so it’s personal and changes how you see yourself. What I tell them is this: We are not here to give them someone else’s nose. We’re working with what they’re born with and making considerate modifications that suit their face. Preservation rhinoplasty is all about enhancing, not replacing.

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