Nasal surgery, often called a “nose job” or by its technical name “Rhinoplasty,” is usually performed to alter the size, shape and function of the nose. The final appearance of the nose cannot be determined before surgery.
Some computer programs are available and used by some physicians to see the affect of different changes on the shape of the nose. Although this computer imagery may give some rough idea, it cannot predict the surgical outcome, since changes are limited by such factors as skin elasticity and bone thickness, nostril size and facial configuration.
Therefore it is necessary that the patient be very comfortable with the surgeon’s surgical and aesthetic judgment before proceeding with surgery. Surgery of the nose can also alleviate breathing problems by correcting a deviated septum or by giving support to certain areas of the nose.
This surgery can be performed on individuals as young as 13 or 14 for girls and 14 or 15 for boys. It is best to have this procedure performed when facial growth is complete.
What to expect from the consultation
During this visit you should expect to sit at length with your doctor and discuss your goals for surgery. It is important to be informative about:
- Past surgeries
- Past and current medical conditions
- Any medications and vitamins you are currently taking
- Any and all supplements you are using
- Allergies to drugs, foods, dyes and rubber
- History of nasal trauma
- Breathing problems
How the surgery is performed
Surgery is usually performed under general anesthetic and the length of time required to perform the operation is 1 to 3 hours. There are many techniques to Rhinoplasty. Surgery could be performed through incisions placed inside the nose. This is also called “closed rhinoplasty.”
Another technique is “open rhinoplasty” where the incisions are made across the columella, the vertical strip of tissue separating the nostrils, as well as within the nose. Modern concepts in rhinoplasty include building up the nose to achieve an aesthetically pleasing form (rather than just breaking the bones and removing tissue).
Very importantly, the surgeon must individualize the surgery and “diagnose” the nose. Each thing done to the nose should be easily explainable to the patient. Breathing should improve after nasal surgery.
What to expect after the surgery
The first week after surgery you should rest your head in an elevated position to help minimize swelling. You may experience some bleeding, bruising and swelling but this will subside over the next few weeks.
In addition to a nasal splint you will also have some packing inside the nose which will be removed by your surgeon. Within the next 10 days after surgery, your swelling should reach its peak and begin to subside. You can apply makeup to conceal any bruising. Some moderate activity can be resumed, but nothing strenuous just yet. Several weeks after the surgery you can resume most of your normal activities.
- Driving: 5-7 days.
- Non-contact sports: 3-4 weeks. (This includes jogging, swimming, hiking, etc.)
- Contact sports: 6 weeks. (This category includes tennis, skiing, football, basketball, etc.)
- Diving: 8-12 weeks.
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