Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, AKA a “nose job”, is a surgical procedure that essentially aims to diminish or alleviate nasal flaws. It can be a very effective procedure in that it improves facial harmony and aesthetic as well as if necessary, correct septal defects that impede breathing. It is then referred to as septorhinoplasty.

A nose that is out of balance or character with one’s facial features can be a source of dissatisfaction. However it is important that you embark on corrective surgery only if YOU feel the need to address your concerns. It is important that you maintain a realistic outlook. You have to appreciate that most people have some degree of asymmetry and although the aim of a nose job is to correct flaws and improve symmetry, perfect symmetry is not always achievable. You must be of good health and completed your growth before deciding to undergo this operation. Rhinoplasty can attempt to rectify various aspects of the nose, namely its size, projection/profile, width, nasal tip shape and angle as well as size and shape of the nostrils.

During consultation, your general health and any medical issues should be discussed. Your medication history and possible history of trauma to the nose will also be assessed. It is important that you disclose if you have any issues when breathing through your nose. Your surgeon will closely examine your nose and its relation to your overall facial features. It is crucial that you clarify what it is that you do not like about your nose and what it is that you expect from your surgeon. Your surgeon can then disclose his/her plan for your procedure, more specifically what type of procedure and how extensive it has to be to address your concerns. You should make sure you understand what it is that your surgeon can achieve with regards to your rhinoplasty. If not certain, ensure that you ask questions.

Most rhinoplasties are carried out under general anaesthesia and it is important that you make sure you have a complete blood test carried out before the day of operation. Your surgeon will either carry out a closed or open rhinoplasty. Closed rhinoplasty is when the surgeon obtains access to underlying bone and cartilage through incisions placed just inside your nostrils. Open rhinoplasty is when incision is placed along the exterior part of the nose, namely on the vertical part of skin separating the two nostrils, the columella. If your nostrils also need to be altered then incisions are made at the base of each nostril. Following the incisions your surgeon will gain access to the cartilage and bony structures, which he can then manipulate- removing a hump, reshaping the cartilaginous tip-, based on your needs.  At the end of the procedure either absorbable or removable sutures are placed depending on whether you had closed or open rhinoplasty respectively. Finally a cast is crafted over your nose and secured using tape.

Rhinoplasty, as with any plastic surgery may lead to complications thus it is crucial that you consider the risk/benefit ratio and make an informed decision as to go ahead with surgery or not. Bear in mind that your decision should be based on what YOU want and not what someone else wants you to have done.

As with any surgery there is always the possible risks associated with general anaesthesia as well as a risk of infection, although very uncommon, bleeding and poor scar healing. Poor scar healing is usually more of a concern if you would like to have your nostrils altered as well. More specific risks related to rhinoplasty include risk of unsatisfactory shape of the nose, asymmetry, and difficulty breathing nasally in the future and rarely nasal septal perforation.

When you wake up you will notice that your nose has been packed with fine bandages and that you can only breath through your mouth. You will develop considerable swelling and bruising around your nose and eyes, which will subside overtime. The bandages will be removed from your nose the following day but you may still find it difficult to breath through your nose for a couple of weeks. Sutures, if not absorbable will be removed after a week along with the cast. Although the majority of the swelling from your nose will resolve over a few weeks the final contour of your nose may take up to a year to fully refine.