Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty (The Nose Job)

Rhinoplasty Surgery can change the shape of the whole or part of the nose to make it more aesthetically pleasing, as well as improve the nasal function. When rhinoplasty is combined with work on the septum (midline partition of the nose), it is called a Septorhinoplasty, which forms a part of the Rhinoplasty procedure.

What are the limitations of Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is by far the most complex of all the facial plastic surgical operations. The skin, strength, shape, and symmetry of the nasal bones and cartilages, healing power of your body and, of course, the skill of the surgeon, all influence the overall outcome. Minor imperfections are common after rhinoplasty hence, perfection is not the goal. Factors such as thick oily skin, previous trauma, smoking, nasal allergies, use of recreational drugs, facial asymmetry, and unrealistic expectations all have a negative effect on the outcome.

Consulations and Surgical Procedure

A full assessment of the nose and facial features is carried out with the aid of photographs during the consultation. The surgery is usually performed whilst you are asleep. Cuts are made inside and occasionally outside the nose and the skin is lifted off the bone and cartilage underneath. A hairline fracture may be made in the nasal bones to allow the change in the shape of the nose. Small pieces of bone and cartilage may be removed from or even added to the nose to smooth out any bumps or dips. At the end of the procedure all cuts are stitched with soluble sutures. In some cases, extra cartilage is required to obtain the desired shape of the nose. This cartilage is taken from the ear, ribs or from other external sources.  An external splint applied during surgery is usually removed 5-7 days after the procedure.

What to expect and care after Rhinoplasty

• Some discomfort is common but pain tends to be minimal and controlled with simple painkillers
• Blood stained mucus and crusting is invariable and lasts for 2-3 days or sometimes longer
• Some bruising and swelling around the nose and eyes, which lasts for 1-2 weeks
• The nose will feel blocked and crusty in the first two weeks after surgery
• We advise you to only blow your nose very gently in the first week following surgery and sneeze with your mouth open to protect your nose and minimisethe chances of bleeding
• It may take up to 3 months for the breathing to be clear
• It is best to avoid exposure to coughs and colds, smoke, dust, crowed areas and heavy exercise for 2-3 weeks after surgery
• Sun exposure should be avoided for 6 months after surgery
• The nose may feel stiff and numb for up to 12 months, particularly around the tip
• Two weeks off work is generally recommended

Possible Complications

Complications include but not limited to:-

• Troublesome bleeding
• Infection
• Blockage
• Altered sensation or numbness of teeth, lips and nose
• Loss of sense of smell, this is usually temporary
• Prolonged swelling, irregularities and scarring of the skin
• Septal perforation (a hole in the septum)
• Recurrence of the bump around the nasal bone
• Runny nose: particularly when the size of the nose has been made smaller

Special considerations

About 5-10% of patients need additional operations in the future to further adjust the shape of the nose. This may be done as a revision surgery or planned before the first operation.

Please click HERE for more information on the ENTUK website