Rhinoplasty, also known as nose reshaping, can be a very rewarding procedure when expectations are realistic. Your nose is the central point of your face and can be one of the first things people notice when they meet you for the first time. If you are unhappy with the shape of your nose it can have an effect your confidence and self esteem.
Rhinoplasty is a popular cosmetic surgery procedure for both men and women and the results achieved can be life changing. Women who have rhinoplasty often want the nose to look softer, smaller and more feminine. Men mainly use the procedure to refine the bridge of the nose and the nostrils. Rhinoplasty is also used if someone has injured their nose through a fall or sporting accident and can benefit those who are having difficulty breathing.
There are many variations of the rhinoplasty procedure.
The standard rhinoplasty involves incisions inside the nostrils, meaning the scars will not be visible. The bridge is re-shaped, and the sides of the nose can be repositioned to define the shape of the nose. For this procedure it is necessary to cut through the bone of the nose, which means the surgeon is effectively 'breaking' the patient's nose. This is what causes most of the bruising and swelling and is why the patient is required to wear a cast, also known as a splint, on the nose for approximately one week after the procedure.
The Septo-rhinoplasty involves changing the shape of the septum. The septum is a piece of tissue that runs down the middle of the nose which separates the nostrils. Septo-rhinoplasty may be required if the septum is bent or mis-shapen which can affect air flow. This type of nose reshaping involves a bigger cut within the nose, meaning that there will still be no visible scars.
The tip rhinoplasty is for people who need the tip or the lower part of the nose re-shaped. This part is mainly cartilage and soft tissue which cannot be operated on from within the nose. For this procedure it is necessary to make a small cut across the skin between the nostrils which means there will be a small visible scar. This type of rhinoplasty can affect the blood supply and sensation to the tip of the nose. Swelling can take longer to go down than with other rhinoplasty procedures.
Nose reshaping surgery can take around 2 hours depending on the type of surgery. After your procedure, you will have stitches inside the nose which are usually dissolvable, and if you have had a tip rhinoplasty you will have removable stitches on the outside which will need to be removed between five and seven days after surgery. You will also have a splint or cast on the nose which needs to be kept in place for a week until you return to your clinic for your first check. Your nose will be swollen and bruised for a couple of weeks after the procedure. In some cases minor swelling may persist for a few months.
After having any rhinoplasty surgery you will need approximately two weeks off work depending on the nature of your job. It is important to avoid any activities that could injure your nose for the next few months.
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