Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to change the shape or size of the nose. In this ultimate guide, you’ll find detailed information about the procedure, risks and expected results of rhinoplasty. Whether you’re considering the procedure for cosmetic or medical reasons, this guide will help you understand everything you need to know about rhinoplasty.
WHAT IS RHINOPLASTY?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to change the shape or size of the nose. It can be done for aesthetic reasons, to correct a deformity or asymmetry of the nose, or for medical reasons, such as to improve breathing. The procedure can be done under local or general anaesthetic and may involve cutting and rearranging the bones and cartilage of the nose.
HOW DO I PREPARE FOR RHINOPLASTY?
Before rhinoplasty, it is important to prepare yourself both physically and mentally. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, including stopping smoking, avoiding certain medications and following a healthy diet. It is also important to discuss your expectations with your surgeon and to understand the risks and expected results of the procedure. Make sure you have a recovery plan in place, including arrangements for transport and post-operative care.
THE DIFFERENT RHINOPLASTY TECHNIQUES:
There are several rhinoplasty techniques, each of which is tailored to specific needs.
Open rhinoplasty is the most common technique, in which a small incision is made in the columella (the part that separates the nostrils) to allow the surgeon access to the inside of the nose. Open rhinoplasty is used to correct severe deformities of the nose. It can also be used to reconstruct the nose after trauma or injury. The open technique is most commonly used to correct congenital deformities or injuries that have significantly changed the shape of the nose over time, such as rheumatoid arthritis.
Closed rhinoplasty is a less invasive technique in which all the incisions are made inside the nose. The aim of this type of rhinoplasty is to improve your breathing, reduce the size and protrusion of your nose and improve its shape. Closed rhinoplasty may also be called endoscopic rhinoplasty (ER). This term refers to the fact that the surgeon uses an endoscope – a thin tube with a lighted camera at one end – to look inside your nose during the operation.
Ethnic rhinoplasty is a technique that takes into account the ethnic characteristics of the patient to create a natural and harmonious result. It is important to discuss the most appropriate technique for your needs with your surgeon.
POSSIBLE RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS:
As with any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty carries risks and potential complications. Common risks include bleeding, infection, pain and bruising. Less common complications may include a deviated septum, loss of sensation in the nose or asymmetry. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon and to follow all post-operative instructions to minimise the risk of complications.
EXPECTED RESULTS AND RECOVERY TIME:
The results of rhinoplasty can vary depending on the goal of the procedure and the individual characteristics of the patient. It is important to discuss your expectations with your surgeon to ensure that you are on the same page. Recovery can take several weeks, during which time you should avoid strenuous physical activity and follow your surgeon’s instructions to minimise the risk of complications. Final results may take several months to see as the nose takes time to heal and stabilise.
