The Ins and Outs of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is the technical term for plastic surgery on the nose and it can be done for cosmetic reasons to balance facial features or for medical reasons to improve breathing difficulties, correct a birth defect or repair a defect from an injury. It can increase or decrease the size of nose, alter the tip and narrow or change the shape of nostrils. In order to be considered a viable candidate for this procedure the patient needs to be in their mid teens or older in order for the nasal bone to have stabilized. 

There are two ways for the surgeon to make the incision. The first method is an open Rhinoplasty which is the preferred method of many doctors because it allows them the least restricted access to the cartilage and bone. This method is more likely to leave some visible scarring as opposed to a closed Rhinoplasty. The closed method is less likely to leave a scar because the incision is made across the skin between the nostrils and the doctor then lifts the skin off the tip of the nose to gain access which means the stitches and scars will be less visible. 

Once access has been gained either through the open or closed method, the surgeon then proceeds to exposes the cartridge and bone that make up the frame work. The bone is then sculpted to create the desired shape or profile. Once the doctor has finished re sculpting the area, is closed up and a splint is applied to help maintain the shape. The splint and stitches are removed within a couple of weeks. However as with any surgery there are risks associated with the procedure such as recurring nose bleeds, numbness, difficulty breathing, infection or allergic reaction to either the medication or anesthesia.

The recovery time is fairly brief as long as post operative instructions are followed. Patients will need to be on bed rest for 24 hours and will probably feel puffy and achy with headaches for the first few days. The pain can be managed with pain medication that the doctor prescribes. Clients are also advised to avoid participating in any sports or activities that may result in a nose injury and to avoid air traveling for the first couple of weeks. Within a week a client can return to work and within a few weeks most side effects such as bruising and swelling aside and the results of the surgery and your new look can be revealed.