Connect with us

Health

Rhinoplasty – What To Expect

Published

on

What is rhinoplasty?

Many of us put a lot of time into accentuating our features – adding another coat of mascara for big, beautiful eyes and finding the perfect shade of lipstick for soft, tantalizing lips. However, the nose is a feature most of us prefer not to be the main point of focus. Therefore, it is hardly surprising that over 4,500 Brits opted for a rhinoplasty last year.

With the goal of improving the aesthetic appearance, rhinoplasty – often referred to as a “nose job” – is a surgical procedure carried out to reshape or realign the nose. As well as the cosmetic applications of rhinoplasty, the procedure can also be carried out for medical purposes such as helping to improve a patient’s breathing.

How is rhinoplasty performed?

Administration of anesthetics

–          Depending on the preference of the patient and the surgeons’ recommendation, rhinoplasty surgery can either be performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia.

Making of incisions

–          In order to reduce visible scarring, the incisions for most rhinoplasty procedures are made on the inside of the nose – this is called a closed procedure. However, in the instance of more extensive cases, incisions may be made underneath the nose or at the side of the nostrils.

Repositioning of cartilage and bone

–          To remove a bump in the structure of the nose, the bone may simply be planed down to achieve the desired appearance. However, if the patient wishes to have the bridge of their nose narrowed, surgeons will need to use a small hammer and chisel-type device to break the nasal bones. In other cases, there may be no alterations made to the bone at all – in these instances, a surgeon may simply need to move or reposition cartilage.

Removal of excess skin

–          After a rhinoplasty procedure, it is likely to have excess skin from the previous structure of the nose. It is at this point in the procedure that this skill will be removed.

Closure of incisions and dressing

–          After the surgery had been conducted, a surgeon will close incisions and dress the nose with gauze packing and exterior dressings. In some cases, a splint may be put on the nose in order to promote healing and offer protection.

How long will it take to recover from rhinoplasty?

Within 3-4 days, patients can resume their normal, day-to-day chores. However, it may take up to 10 days before individuals should consider returning to work in a non-strenuous position and longer for more demanding positions.

In order to promote healing, for the first few weeks following surgery, patients should avoid any lifting heavy objects, bending over, or participating in strenuous activities. As well as sleeping with your head elevated for up to two weeks after surgery, you should avoid exposure to direct sunlight for the first few months after surgery.