RHINOPLASTY - Nose Surgery

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Most patients that have nose surgery are in their late teens through their thirties. Nose surgery should be done after all growth spurts have occurred - usually after age 17 or 18, however there may be some instances such as a birth defect where a rhinoplasty may be needed earlier.

Rhinoplasty Procedure Candidates

The rhinoplasty procedure is used to reshape the nose and can fix a variety of problems including the following:

  • A bump on the bridge of the nose
  • A wide nose
  • Misshapen tip or bridge of the nose
  • A broken nose
  • A deformity from a previous nose surgery
  • Breathing problems caused by a deviated septum

Rhinoplasty Procedure

Local or general anesthesia will be administered in the operation room. Incisions may be made on the inside and/or outside of the nose. Epinephrine is also given to shrink the mucous membranes and control bleeding.

The surgeon will sculpt the nose by working with cartilage, bony tissue, the septum, and the top and tip of the nose. The size of the nostrils is also revised as needed. Sometimes the surgeon needs to break the bones so that they can be repositioned. The surgeon works from 'before' pictures of the patient's nose as well as pictures of ideal noses that the patient has brought in.

After surgery, the nose is packed with gauze for 24-48 hours. The nose is also taped for approximately 5 days. Antibiotics and pain medications are also prescribed.

After Rhinoplasty Surgery

You can expect to feel:

  • heaviness between eyes and headache
  • black and blue around eyes lasting 7-10 days before fading
  • pain with removal of gauze

Special Considerations

  • can't blow the nose for 1 week after surgery
  • avoid bumping the nose or getting it sunburned for 8 weeks

Rhinoplasty Recovery

After one week, most people can go back to work. After 2-3 weeks, most people are very happy with the results of the operation. However, the final appearance can take up to six months to be fully realized.

Risks Associated with Nose Surgery

  • infection
  • need for second surgery- revision
  • scar tissue causing breathing problems
  • breathing problems from adjusting to a smaller nose
  • bleeding