Pacific Hurricanes

Pacific Ocean hurricanes like Hilary have a rich but often forgotten history of impacting the vast expanse of the Pacific Rim. The Pacific Ocean, with its warm waters and conducive atmospheric conditions, has been a breeding ground for hurricanes throughout history. These storms are categorized into the Eastern Pacific and Western Pacific regions, each with distinct characteristics and impacts.

Pacific hurricanes have left their mark on our region and many indigenous cultures along the Pacific coasts have passed down oral histories of hurricanes that played a significant role in their societies. The 20th century witnessed advancements in meteorological technology and understanding. Notable storms in our region include the 1939 California tropical storm and the devastating Great Kanto Typhoon of 1934 in Japan. From Hurricane Iniki (1992) in Hawaii to the catastrophic Typhoon Haiyan (2013) in the Philippines, the late 20th century and beyond saw a rise in the intensity and impact of Pacific hurricanes.

The destruction of infrastructure, agriculture, and property has led to substantial economic losses in the past. Rebuilding efforts often strain resources and economies. Vulnerable coastal communities bear the brunt of these storms, facing displacement, casualties, and overwhelmed emergency response systems. Coastal erosion, intrusion of saltwater into freshwater sources, and damage to marine ecosystems like coral reefs are among the environmental consequences. Efforts to manage the impact of Pacific hurricanes include advanced forecasting through technological advancements that enable more accurate tracking and forecasting, giving communities crucial time to prepare and evacuate. A resilient infrastructure, improved building practices and infrastructure enhance communities’ ability to withstand hurricane impacts. With the possibility of climate change contributing to altered ocean temperatures and atmospheric conditions, understanding the intersection of hurricanes and environmental shifts is crucial. Pacific Ocean hurricanes have a storied history of shaping the Pacific rim. As science, technology, and disaster preparedness evolve, managing the impact of these storms remains a paramount concern. The ongoing challenge lies in fostering resilience and adaptation to the unpredictable and dynamic nature of Pacific hurricanes, ensuring the safety and security of the communities that call these vulnerable regions home.

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to reshape the nose for cosmetic or functional reasons. There are two primary techniques used in rhinoplasty: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. These techniques differ in their approach to accessing and reshaping the nasal structures. Open rhinoplasty, also known as external rhinoplasty, involves making an incision on the columella, the strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. This incision allows us to lift the skin off the underlying nasal structures, providing a clear and direct view of the nasal anatomy. The main steps of open rhinoplasty include making an incision on the columella, elevating the nasal skin to expose the cartilage and bone structures and finally reshaping and modifying the nasal structures, such as the cartilage and bone, to achieve the desired outcome.

Advantages of open rhinoplasty include better visibility and access to the nasal structures, making it ideal for complex cases or significant structural changes. The direct visualization allows for precise alterations, making it suitable for intricate adjustments. Open rhinoplasty is particularly effective for correcting structural problems like severe nasal deviations or complex deformities. The disadvantages of open rhinoplasty include the small but visible scar made on the columella although it typically heals very well.a slightly longer recovery due to the more extensive surgical approach.

Closed rhinoplasty, also referred to as endonasal rhinoplasty, is performed entirely within the nasal passages without any external incisions. This technique involves making internal incisions to access and reshape the nasal structures. The key steps of closed rhinoplasty include making internal incisions within the nostrils, accessing the nasal structures through these incisions, and finally -reshaping and modifying the nasal structures.

Advantages of closed rhinoplasty include no external scar, and a shorter recovery period compared to open rhinoplasty, as there is less disruption to the skin and tissue. The disadvantages include limited visibility which makes closed rhinoplasty more challenging for complex cases that require significant modifications.

The choice between open and closed rhinoplasty depends on the patient’s individual needs, the complexity of the procedure, and a discussion with your surgeon. A skilled and experienced surgeon can determine the most appropriate technique to achieve the desired outcome while minimizing potential risks and complications. Below is an otherwise healthy 23-year-old female who required an open rhinoplasty to achieve all of her surgical goals. The post-operative photo is day 7 after surgery.

For CA, please call 949-888-9700 or visit www.orangecountyplasticsurgery.com
Or for MA location, call 508-755-4825 or visit www.salisburyps.com