Rhinoplasty
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is surgery performed to reshape the nose, and can
be done for health or cosmetic purposes. It is one of the most
common types of plastic surgery procedures.
Reasons for Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty can be performed to correct a birth defect or injury,
alleviate breathing problems, or enhance appearance. It can transform
your appearance by changing the width of your nose, reshaping
the bridge or the tip, or change the angle between your nose
and upper lip. Rhinoplasty can also be performed in conjunction
with sinus surgery or septoplasty to correct breathing problems.
While plastic surgery can
improve your appearance and boost your self-esteem, it probably
won't change your looks to match your ideal. When considering
rhinoplasty, it is important to have clear and realistic expectations
and motivations, and to discuss these with your surgeon.
What to Expect
Initial Consultation
At this appointment, you will share with your surgeon your desires
for rhinoplasty. Your surgeon will examine your nose and face
structure, and discuss the possibilities and procedure with you.
Together, you will develop a plan for surgery and healing.
Surgery
The specific techniques and anesthesia to be used will depend
upon the surgical plan developed by you and your surgeon. Generally,
most rhinoplasty procedures take between 1-2 hours and are performed
on an outpatient basis. During surgery, the skin of the nose
is
separated from the bone and cartilage, which is then surgically
changed to the desired shape, then the skin is draped over the
"new" nose. A splint is then applied to help your nose
retain its new shape, and to protect it as it heals.
Recovery
For the first 24 hours following surgery, you will have some
pain and puffiness. Swelling and, sometimes, bruising will occur,
but will usually disappear within two weeks or so. At the end
of two weeks, all bandages, splints and any stitches should be
removed, and you should be well on your way to recovery.
