Rhinoplasty aims to improve the character of the nose, to completely or partially reshape the nasal pyramid and, if necessary, to correct breathing problems in the nose. The problem to be treated may be congenital or the result of an accident, surgery or ageing. The procedure can be performed from the age of 18, when growth has stopped.
The operation is performed under surgical conditions under general anaesthesia. In addition to anaesthesia, intravenous sedation (general anaesthesia) with local anaesthesia is possible.The type of anaesthesia is discussed between the plastic surgeon, the anaesthesiologist and the patient. During surgery, the plastic surgeon can perform the desired procedure using several techniques. During rhinoplasty, incisions are made in the nostrils, along the bridge of the nose or over the upper lip, so that visible scars remain small. The incisions are used to reshape the bony cartilaginous structure that defines the unique shape of the nose.
With rhinoplasty it is possible to reduce or straighten the nose, remove bumps, reshape the nasal tip, flatten the nasal septum, and reduce the nasal concha. After the nose has been corrected, the incisions are closed with sutures and the nostrils are stuffed with a swab. An external tape bandage is then applied and a plaster/plastic/metal splint is adjusted to the shape of the nose and worn for a period of time determined by the doctor.
Depending on individual needs and complexity, the surgery can take from 45 minutes to 3 hours.
The nature of the surgery does not usually require close hospital attention so the patient can return home on the day of surgery. After surgery, a cotton pad is placed in the patient’s nose, so they cannot breathe through their nose for the first few days. The swab is removed 1 day after the operation and the splint is removed on day 7.
With a balanced lifestyle and careful, gradual exercise, you can return to your normal routine in 10-20 days. Gentle, gradual exercise is possible from 3 months after surgery. The overall recovery varies from person to person, as the pace of rehabilitation and the general condition and activity prior to surgery are largely determined by the patient’s level of rehabilitation.
The final shape will be fully visible 1 year after the operation.
– better well-being, more self-confidence
– invisible, hidden scars
– more aesthetic nose
– easier breathing in some cases (deviated septum)
Although complications are rare, it is worth being aware of the following potential complications:
– Bleeding: may occur in the first hours after surgery, but is usually mild. If bleeding persists, additional cotton wool may be needed or you may have to return to the operating theatre.
– Haematoma: if they are too painful or too large, they may need to be removed.
– Infection: although the presence of bacteria in the nostril is natural, it is very rare.
– Abnormal scarring: this may only apply to external scars (if any) and is rarely a problem that requires a second procedure.
– Scarring : rarely occurs on the skin, it may be caused by the splint. Minor wounds heal spontaneously without trace, but very rare skin lesions leave a scar.
– Nasal mucosal lesions are rare
– Asymmetry, unevenness.
