The “nose job” is a classic of cosmetic surgery, as the nose it is a very prominent facial feature where its appearance can be a significant source of distress.
Why do patients request a rhinoplasty?
Some people are unhappy with the shape of the nose because they feel that it is too big, it has a hump, it projects too far forward, the tip is droopy or too wide or that the nose is bent to one side following accident or injury. As well as aesthetic considerations, abnormalities may result in obstruction of the nostrils resulting in snoring or difficulty in breathing.
What does the procedure involve?
Rhinoplasty is usually done under general anaesthetic and requires a one or two night stay in hospital. The procedure requires incisions which are for the most part on the inside of the nose, and are therefore invisible. Surgery reshapes the cartilage and bone; and the incisions inside the nose are closed with dissolving sutures. A nasal pack is put into the nostrils, and a plaster is applied to the outside of the nose.
What follows the surgery?
Patients may have swelling and bruising of the eyelids following surgery, which usually fades within a fortnight. The “nasal pack” is normally removed within 48 hours of surgery, and patients are discharged home with instructions regarding care of the plaster and cleaning of the nostrils.
If there are any external sutures, they are removed around the fifth postoperative day. The plaster is removed seven to ten days following surgery – and a follow-up appointment is arranged approximately four weeks later.
How much time do I need off work?
Most patients able to return to work two weeks following the operation.
What are the complications of this procedure?
Like any other operation, rhinoplasty can result in complications such as bleeding, haematoma (blood clot under the skin), infection and a scar inside the nose. We will discuss specific complications that can arise from rhinoplasty following your examination. Approximately 5% of patients who undergo rhinoplasty require a small further revision for minor irregularities of bone or cartilage; this is usually undertaken after a year, if required.
