Cosmetic surgery of the nose, also called rhinoplasty, can improve the shape, size and general appearance of your nose. The goal is a nose that looks natural and achieves a harmonious balance with your other facial features.
Who are the candidates for Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is advocated for girls more than 15yrs and boys more than 17years, that mis once your growing years are over. Some of the indications that you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty are:
It is important that you have a clear idea of how you would like your nose to look and at the same time, realize that there are limitations to the procedure. Only realistic goals can be achieved for a given person.
How is rhinoplasty performed ?
Because of individual factors like type, quality and thickness of skin, strength and quality of nasal cartilage and degree of deformity not everyone will achieve the same results after rhinoplasty..
Rhinoplasty is generally performed in a hospital, under suitable anaesthesia. In most instances the incisions are placed inside the nose. Sometimes, a very short incision is made across the columella. Alterations may be made to increase or decrease the nasal bridge, reduce the size or width of the nose, narrow the nostrils, change the angle between the nose and upper lip or reshape the tip. If the base of the nose is narrowed or the nostrils reduced small wedges of skin at the base of the nostrils will be removed.
The cartilage and bone that forms the framework of your nose are then modified. If your nose needs to be built up, this can be done using nasal cartilage, bone or cartilage from other sites or synthetic implants. The skin and soft tissues then re-drape themselves over this new scaffolding.
A splint may be placed on your nose for holding the tissues in place until they have stabilized. Packing or soft internal splints are sometimes used inside the nostrils.
Post-operative recovery
It is important to realize that the amount of time it takes for recovery varies from patient to patient. The first couple of days after surgery you should restrict your activities and sleep with your head elevated. This will help to minimize swelling. Generally, bruising around the eyes and cheeks is most apparent during the first five days after surgery. Most discoloration will disappear within a week.
Stitches may be removed by 5 to 7 days after surgery. You may need to wear the nasal splint for a week, during which time you should avoid getting it wet.
Straining, bending, sneezing and lifting of heavy objects should be avoided for few days after surgery. You may be able to return to work within a week after surgery and resume most normal activities within 3 to 4 weeks. You must protect your reshaped nose from direct sunlight for several months.
Occasionally, a touchup may be desired to further improve the results. The results of rhinoplasty are permanent, except for possible changes associated with the normal aging process.
Possible risks and complications
You may have a detailed discussion about this during your personal consultation. Some of the possible complications include - anaesthesia related complications, swelling & bruising (temporary), bleeding, infection, implant exposure, unsatisfactory outcome (may require touch-up) etc.