Rhinoplasty: procedures, safety, risks, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is a rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty or 'nose job' is cosmetic surgery to improve the appearance of your nose. The surgery is performed on the bones and cartilages that give the nose its shape and structure. Sometimes a rhinoplasty is also performed to improve breathing through your nose.

When do I need a rhinoplasty?

Surgery to correct obstructed airflow requires more evaluation of the nasal structure. This is because the nose is directly related to airflow and breathing. Most people who have had a successful rhinoplasty feel more comfortable with their appearance. Your nose will be the size and shape you want, and the symptoms of nasal congestion may reduce. You can be a suitable candidate for a rhinoplasty if:

your facial growth is complete

You are in good health

You don't smoke

You have a positive outlook and realistic goals for improving your appearance

Precautions & warnings

What do I need to know before undergoing a rhinoplasty?

If you want a more symmetrical nose, keep in mind that the human face is generally not perfectly symmetrical. The result of surgery may not be 100% symmetrical, but it can provide balance and improve facial proportions. Rhinoplasty is the only way to change the appearance of your nose. If you experience a congestion caused by the nasal bones or the cartilage and bone dividing your nostrils (septum) is bent, you can undergo septoplasty to improve your breathing. Rhinoplasty can be done at the same time to change the appearance of your nose.

Process

What should I do before undergoing a rhinoplasty?

Talk to your doctor about any medications you are currently taking, allergies, or other health conditions before having surgery. Before surgery, schedule an appointment with your anesthetist. It is important that you follow your doctor's instructions to stop eating or drinking before surgery. You will be given preoperative instructions, such as whether to eat preoperatively. In general, you will need to fast 6 hours before the procedure begins. You may be allowed to drink fluids, such as coffee, a few hours before the surgery.

How is the rhinoplasty process?

The operation is usually performed under general anesthesia and lasts for about 1 to 90 minutes. Your surgeon will fix the tip of your nose by removing a portion of the cartilage. If you have a hump (dorsum) on your nose, the surgeon can remove or scrape it. Usually, the base of the bone on the side of the nose is broken first so that the nose can be narrowed and adjusted. The surgeon may rebuild your nose.

What should I do after undergoing a rhinoplasty?

If you have a bandage on your nose, it will usually be removed the next morning. You may experience a nosebleed for 15 minutes. After that, you are allowed to go home. You need to rest and stay away from the crowd for 2 weeks. This is to avoid the flu, which can lead to infection. Avoid exercising, taking warm baths, or looking down for 2 weeks. Exercising can help you get back to your normal activities. Talk to your doctor first. It will take several months for the end result of your nose to show.

Complications

What complications can occur?

The risks associated with a rhinoplasty can include:

anesthetic risk

bleeding (hematoma)

infection

imperfect wound healing

changes in sensation in the skin (numbness or pain)

perforation of the nasal septum is rare. additional surgery may be needed to repair the septum but it is difficult to correct this complication

difficulty breathing

the appearance of the nose that is not what you want

skin discoloration and swelling

possible revision surgery

These risks will be discussed with your consent. It is important that you ask your surgeon all your questions.

Hello Health Group does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.