Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgery where the shape and size of your nose are changed. It can be performed for either cosmetic or medical reasons. In this article, we will explore what rhinoplasty is, when you might need it, and what to expect from the procedure.
How to prepare for rhinoplasty?
Whether rhinoplasty is suitable for you depends on various factors that will be discussed during your initial consultation with your surgeon. This includes a discussion of your motivations for seeking surgery and what realistic expectations you can have for the results.
Before your surgery, your surgeon will go over your medical history and ask about any current medications or health concerns.
They will evaluate both the outside and the inside of your nose to see what changes can be made during surgery. Your surgeon might also order blood tests or other lab work.
Not only will your surgeon assess whether you require any further surgeries, but they will also determine if these procedures can be done concurrently. For example, some patients opt to have a chin augmentation along with rhinoplasty in order to better define their features.
This consultation will also include taking photos of your nose from different angles. These pictures will be used to help gauge the surgery’s long-term results and may even be referred to during the operation.
What’s rhinoplasty surgery like?
Your doctor will numb your nose and face using local or general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of the procedure. You may also receive medication through an intravenous line that makes you drowsy; however, you will still be awake.
General anaesthesia will cause you to lose consciousness by either inhaling a drug or through an IV.
Once you can no longer feel pain or are unconscious, your surgeon will make incisions to the inside or outside of your nostrils. First, they’ll separate the skin from your bone or cartilage; after that, they’ll start reshaping it. If your new nose needs extra cartilage, your doctor may use some from a deeper part of your nose. You might also get a bone graft or an implant, if required. A bone graft is a surgery where extra bone is transplanted into the bones in your nose.
Depending on the specifics of your surgery, it can generally last from one to two hours. If it is complex, however, the length of time usually increases.
What to expect after rhinoplasty procedures?
Your surgeon will place a metal or plastic splint on your nose after surgery to help it retain its new shape while healing. To stabilise your septum, which is the bone and cartilage that separates your nasal passages, your surgeon may place splints or nasal packs inside your nostrils.
After surgery, you will be observed in a recovery room for several hours. If everything goes as planned, you can go home that same day. After your surgery, you will need someone to drive you home since you will still be under the influence of anaesthesia. Depending on the complexity of your surgery, you might have to stay in the hospital for up to two days.
After surgery, it is important that you remain in bed with your head propped up. This will help to reduce the amount of swelling and bleeding. You may have a congested nose due to the surgical splints obstructing the airflow or post-operative swelling. The internal dressings are usually kept in place for 7 days post-surgery.
Light bleeding and drainage of mucus and old blood are typical for a few days post-surgery. A drip pad may be placed under your nose by your surgeon in order to absorb drainage. Your surgeon will give you specific instructions on how frequently to change your drip pad.
You will need to return to your surgeon 7 days after your procedure to have your bandages removed. At this point, your surgeon will remove any stitches as well as the splint. You will probably still have some visible swelling and bruising, but it will have greatly improved. Normally, patients can return to work and their regular lives a week after surgery if they avoid working too hard or lifting heavy objects.
What to avoid after rhinoplasty surgery?
- Don’t put pressure on the bridge of your nose by wearing sunglasses
- Avoid smoking
- Don’t blow your nose
- Don’t engage in strenuous physical exercise
- Brush your teeth using gentle strokes, making sure not to move your upper lip too much
- Put on sunscreen before you go outside! Your skin will be more sensitive than usual and may discolour in the sun if it is not protected
- Instead of wearing clothes that you‘d have to pull over your head, wear clothing with buttons or zips in the front
Who is an ideal candidate for rhinoplasty?
You may be a candidate for the rhinoplasty procedure if:
- You want to improve your appearance and have realistic goals and a positive outlook for doing so
- You’re not a smoker
- Your physical health is in good shape
- Your facial growth is complete
What are the benefits of rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty can:
- Improve breathing
- Address issues associated with a deviated septum
- Improve your facial appearance
- Enhance the harmony and balance between other facial features
- Decrease the bridge
- Decrease the nasal tip
- Reshape your nostrils
- Decrease or increase your nose’s size
What foods to eat after rhinoplasty?
To care for your body and aid digestion, it is best to eat soft foods immediately following a rhinoplasty, such as chicken soup, mashed potatoes, and scrambled eggs. Chewing hard foods can be difficult and even dangerous for patients after surgery.
High-fibre foods are also recommended as they help with regularity and prevent constipation. These foods include vegetables, fruits, and grains.
Reshape your nose with rhinoplasty
If you dislike the way your nose functions or looks, rhinoplasty may be a good option for you. Rhinoplasty can improve both the function and look of your nose, often reducing feelings of insecurity or self-consciousness caused by having a visible imperfection.
To determine if this is the correct procedure for you, contact us now at (02) 9158 6375 and book your consultation.
Note: Any surgical or invasive procedure carries risks. Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.
References
Rhinoplasty
https://www.healthline.com/health/rhinoplasty
Cosmetic Surgery for the Nose
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-nose-job-rhinoplasty
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