Nose is at the centre of the face and can either make a good statement or a bad statement. The Rhinoplasty surgery involves changes or reshaping to some parts or all parts of the nose. People who are unhappy with the shape of the nose or also have a difficulty in breathing these two things can be improved simultaneously with Rhinoplasty surgery. This surgical procedure is most frequently performed all over the world. Understanding of your requirements and a good treatment plan is very important for a successful outcome. The Rhinoplasty results achieved are permanent and very pleasing.

Indications for Rhinoplasty

The common issues of people regarding the nose are enlarging or reducing certain areas, narrowing the nose, smoothing nose humps, correcting the deviation and make the nose sharper. The deformities of the nose can be present from birth or may have developed secondary to an injury. Rhinoplasty Surgery should be done ideally after the growth is complete.

Before Rhinoplasty

A thorough discussion with the surgeon is the initial step to understand your preferences and needs before Rhinoplasty Surgery. A brief medical history and nose examination would be carried out. Pictures of the face would be captured and the relationship of various parts of the face would be assessed. Silhouette drawings of the nose will make you understand the possible outcome of the Rhinoplasty surgery. Smoking and usage of drugs that contain aspirin need to be stopped about 2 weeks before Rhinoplasty surgery. CT scan of the paranasal sinuses would be ordered and an otolaryngologist (ENT) opinion would be sought if there are functional issues or sinus pathology.

Rhinoplasty Procedure

Rhinoplasty Surgery is generally performed under IV sedation or general anaesthesia generally as a day care. These are extremely comfortable and results in minimum bruising and swelling. Most of the incisions are within the nose with a very small segment seen outside which is barely visible after a few days. The skin of the nose is raised and some necessary changes are made to the bones, soft tissue and cartilages. Implants are placed as and when required. Septal deviation if any is corrected at the same time. The flaring nose is also corrected with a cut at the base of nostril or through the inside of the mouth. Chin augmentation may be combined with Rhinoplasty surgery occasionally. Nose is packed for 48 hours with a sponge like dressing (Merocel) if septum is corrected at the same time.

Recovery from Rhinoplasty

The recovery from Rhinoplasty surgery usually takes around 2 weeks. Swelling of the nose might stay a few weeks longer. Most people resume their daily activities in 2 days time and resume office work in 7 days. There are tiny paper tapes over the nose to keep the changes in shape. Splint can be used if changes are made in the bone. There is always some stuffiness of the nose when work has been done on the nasal septum. Pain is negligible and it is controlled with medications. Bruises occur around the eyes if bones are rearranged but will be faded within a few days. Discolouration usually disappears in 14 days after Rhinoplasty.

Aftercare – Rhinoplasty

Dressings – A tape would be placed on the on the nose and should be placed for a week after Rhinoplasty. If you had simultaneous septal surgery for correcting the deviation there will be a small dressing placed inside each nostril that will be removed on the second day after rhinoplasty surgery.

Sutures – Most sutures will dissolve, few to be removed in 5 to 7 days.

Activity – Sleep with your head elevated 30 to 45 degrees to help reduce the swelling. Apply ice as much as possible for the first 2 days after Rhinoplasty surgery which will reduce the amount of bruising and swelling. No lifting or heavy exercise for 14 days after Rhinoplasty. Soft diet in first few days, Vigorous chewing may provoke increased drainage form the nose.

Special Instructions – Protect the sensitive skin on face and nose from sun exposure for at least six weeks. Avoid pressure on the nose i.e. tape glasses off of nose for up to 6 weeks. Also avoid bending over with your head below waist level. The nose may be stuffy the first couple of weeks since this may distort the delicate sutures and cartilage inside your nose.

Bruising and swelling are normal as well as some bloody drainage the first couple of days. Expect two to three days of recovery before normal activities can be performed. Consult the doctor before attempting any athletic or precarious activities that may affect the healing process.

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