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Every year, half a million people who are interested in improving the appearance of their nose seek consultation with Facial Plastic Surgeons. Some are unhappy with the nose they were born with, and some with the way aging has changed their nose. For others, breathing may be a problem, or an injury may have distorted the nose. A slight alteration of the nose can greatly improve one¡¯s appearance. Rhinoplasty (reshaping the nose), could improve one¡¯s looks, self-confidence or health. As with all facial plastic surgery, good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites. The goal of rhinoplasty is to improve the nose aesthetically (without creating a ¡°surgical¡± look) in order to create harmony with other facial features. Additionally, many patients have a chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty to create a better balance of features. Rhinoplasty is usually performed with local injections of anesthesia with intravenous sedation, or in some cases, under general anesthesia.
In rhinoplasty, the majority of incisions are made inside the nose, where they are invisible. In some cases, an incision is made in the area of skin separating the nostrils. Certain amounts of bone and cartilage are then removed or rearranged to provide a newly shaped nose. If the patient has a deviated septum (cartilage and/or bone causing obstruction inside the nose), septal surgery, called septoplasty, is simultaneously performed. The incision is placed entirely inside the nose. The septoplasty removes portions of cartilage and/or bone that are causing the obstruction. The incisions are then closed with fine suture, followed by placement of a splint to the outside of the nose. The splint helps retain the new shape while the nose heals.
If packing is placed inside the nose during surgery, it is removed the next morning following surgery. The nasal splint is usually removed seven days after surgery. At that time, tape is applied to the nose for another seven days and then removed. The majority of the bruising and swelling usually resolve two weeks after surgery. Cold compresses are used to help reduce the bruising and discomfort. A short course of postoperative antibiotics and steroids are given to help prevent infection and excess swelling. Although discomfort is minimal, pain medication is available if required. Vigorous activity is avoided for four weeks following surgery. Sun exposure and risk of injury must be avoided. If you wear glasses, tape is used to avoid putting stress on the nose.
During your evaluation, Dr. Nassif will discuss factors that may influence the outcome of the surgery, such as skin type, ethnic background, age and degree of nasal deformity.
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Alternatives to Major Surgery
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