Septorhinoplasty: definition, procedure, risks, etc. • hello healthy

Definition

What is a septorhinoplasty?

Septorhinoplasty or 'nose job' is a cosmetic surgery to improve the appearance of your nose and breathing. Surgery is performed on the bones and cartilage that give shape and structure to the nose, and one of the goals is to straighten your septum. The septum is the cartilage and bone in the nose that divides the nostrils into two parts.

When do I need to have a septorhinoplasty?

Surgery to correct obstructed airflow requires more evaluation of the nasal structure. This is because the nose is directly related to airflow and breathing. You can be a suitable candidate for septorhinoplasty 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

After surgery, your nose will be the desired size and shape, and you can breathe with both of your nostrils. Most people who have had a successful septorhinoplasty feel more comfortable with their appearance.

Precautions & warnings

What do I need to know before undergoing a septorhinoplasty?

In general, the results of a septorhinoplasty are usually stable, however the cartilage and tissue may shift or change shape over time. Nasal tissue is relatively stable for 3 to 6 months. However, changes can occur up to more than 1 year after surgery. Most people who undergo septorhinoplasty experience reduced symptoms such as difficulty breathing due to septal deviation. The results of septorhinoplasty can vary. Some people feel symptoms persist after surgery and undergo revision septorhinoplasty to re-repair the nasal septum.

Are there alternatives to septorhinoplasty?

If the nasal congestion is caused by a crooked septum, you may undergo a septoplasty. Rhinoplasty is an operation to improve the appearance of your nose. If you have a stuffy nose caused by crooked nasal bones, rhinoplasty (usually in conjunction with septoplasty) is the only option to improve your breathing.

Process

What should I do before undergoing a septorhinoplasty?

Before scheduling a septorhinoplasty, you need to visit your surgeon to discuss the benefits and risks of septorhinoplasty. Your nose may also be photographed from several sides. The doctor will use these photos for pre-operative discussion and as a reference during and after surgery. Discuss with your doctor about your expectations for the operation. The doctor will explain to you what surgery can or cannot do. 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 septorhinoplasty process?

The operation is usually performed under general anesthesia and lasts for about 1 to 2 hours. The surgeon will make an incision in your mucosa (the skin-like layer on the inside of your nose). The bent cartilage and bone will be returned to a straight position. Your surgeon will fix the tip of your nose by removing some 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 septorhinoplasty?

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.

Consult your doctor first. It may take several months for the final results of your nose to show.

Complications

What complications can occur?

As with any procedure, there are several possible risks to septorhinoplasty, such as bleeding, infection and reactions to anesthesia. Possible risks that are specific to septorhinoplasty include:

symptoms such as stuffy nose persist after surgery

bleeding

change in nose shape

opening of the septum (perforation of the septum)

reduced olfactory ability

blood collection in the nasal cavity (septal hematoma)

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.