The goal of nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, is to improve the nose’s appearance and balance it with your other facial features in a way that complements them. Some people feel that their nose creates a focal point that distracts onlookers from their more attractive features. Rhinoplasty corrects the issues that patients are displeased with, like:
- Size
- Width
- A lump on the nasal bridge
- A bulbous, sagging, upturned or oversized tip
- Flared nostrils
- An off-center, asymmetrical or crooked appearance caused by injury or genetics
When you consult with your plastic surgeon, the interior and exterior structure of your nose will be evaluated to determine the scope of your problem and the best way to treat it. In many cases, computer-generated imaging will be used to help you and your surgeon decide on the optimal outcome for your new nose.
The Procedure
Rhinoplasty can be done using two approaches: Closed or open. In closed rhinoplasty, incisions are restricted to the inside of your nose, which renders any scarring invisible. With an open rhinoplasty, an incision is made in the soft tissue between each nostril, but even this scar is barely detectable. In either case, your plastic surgeon will work through these incisions to remove and re-shape nasal cartilage and bone as needed in order to make your nose appear narrower, straighter, wider or to remove a prominent bump.
Most rhinoplasty procedures take between one and three hours to complete, depending on the patient’s needs. They are typically done under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis. To ensure that the altered structure of your new nose remains stable throughout the healing process, special splints will often be placed on either side of your nose, both on the inside and outside. These will be removed within five days to one week.
Septoplasty
Some people suffer from breathing problems or nighttime snoring due to structural abnormalities of the septum, which is the dividing wall that runs down the middle of the nasal interior. Patients presenting with these issues are often good candidates for septoplasty in addition to rhinoplasty. In this procedure, portions of the septum may be removed or re-structured in order to open up the nasal passages and correct any breathing problems.
Recovering From Rhinoplasty
To minimize swelling, bruising and bleeding, you will be required to spend the first day following your rhinoplasty procedure on bed rest while keeping your head elevated. Most of the bruising will disappear within a week or two. For the first several days, you must keep your head elevated during sleep, and it is recommended to use cold compresses to minimize inflammation. During this time, you should not use aspirin or similar drugs, which promote increased bleeding. For at least eight weeks after your procedure, take care not to bump or rub your nose. The amount of sun exposure your nose receives should remain limited for two months. In most cases, patients will be able to return to work in one week to 10 days, and normal exercise can be resumed in four weeks.
Contact Dr. Steven Warnock today to schedule your consultation. Together, we will create a treatment plan designed to give you the results you want.