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FACIAL SURGERY /

Rhinoplasty

What is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, can be used to improve the proportions of your nose and overall facial harmony. The procedure can also be used to correct breathing problems related to airflow through the nose.

Advantages of Rhinoplasty

  • Improves the size of the nose in proportion to the rest of the face.
  • Can correct the width of the nose or the size and location of the nostrils.
  • Can improve the profile of the nose.
  • Can be used to improve the tip of the nose if it is too wide or droopy.
  • Can improve asymmetry.

The goal of rhinoplasty is to create harmony between the various facial features.

Who is a good candidate for Rhinoplasty?

  • If you feel that your nose is too large/droopy and it makes you uncomfortable/affects your self-confidence.

Rhinoplasty Consultation

During the consult we will get to know one another and we will discuss:

  • The reasons you are interested in undergoing rhinoplasty, what expectations you have, what results you are looking to achieve and what can be done realistically to improve the appearance of your nose. (By coordinating expectations, we can increase your satisfaction and alleviate any anxiety you may have regarding the procedure.)
  • Your medical history, including any drug sensitivities you might have or what medication, if any, you take regularly and whether or not you smoke cigarettes.
  • How you breathe through your nose.
  • During the consultation, you will undergo an examination of your nose. You will receive a comprehensive explanation regarding the procedure, where, if at all, the scars will be located, and an explanation of the recovery process.
  • It is natural to feel anxious or excited prior to our consultation. Understanding the process will help reduce anxiety. You are welcome to ask any questions you may have and discuss any worries during the consultation.

How do I prepare for the procedure?

  • We ask that you have blood tests prior to the procedure.
  • In the event that you are taking medication on a regular basis, we will determine if it should be adjusted for the procedure.
  • Avoid taking blood-thinning medications such as aspirin for the two weeks leading up to the procedure and avoid taking anti-inflammatory medications such as Nurofen, vitamin E and Omega 3 for two weeks prior to the procedure as they can increase the risk of bleeding.
  • Please arrange for a companion (friend/family member) to pick you up from the hospital after the procedure and to stay with you for at least one night following the procedure.

Steps of Rhinoplasty

Step 1: Anesthesia

The procedure is performed either under general anesthesia.

Step 2: The Incision

There are two types of incisions:

  1. Closed rhinoplasty: A hidden incision is made inside the nostrils.
  2. Open rhinoplasty: The same hidden incisions are made inside the nostrils and an additional incision is made at the columella (the bridge between the nostrils) and the skin is lifted over the nasal cartilage.

Step 3: Shaping the Nose

After the incisions are made:

  • When the nose is too wide or long, it is narrowed or shortened using removal of some of the nasal cartilage and controlled breakage of the nasal bones.
  • Sometimes, it may be necessary to add cartilage in which case cartilage from the septum or rarely even cartilage from the ear will be inserted.
  • Sutures are used to carefully shape the tip of the nose.

Step 4: Suturing the incisions

In closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are sutured using dissolvable stitches. In open rhinoplasty, non-dissolving sutures are used.
If necessary, the sutures will be removed 7-10 days after the procedure.
The scars will fade over the course of 6-12 months.

Step 5: The Results

Immediately following the procedure you will have a cast on your nose for a period of one week in order to limit swelling and prevent any movement of the nasal bones. The results are immediate however the final outcome will be apparent only after a few months, once all of the swelling in the area has gone down.

What should I expect from the recovery process?

  • A cast will be placed on your nose for a period of one week following the procedure. In some cases you may need tampons in your nose for the first days.
  • Following the procedure, you will be transferred to recovery and you will be able to return home within a few hours (in the event that you are feeling well and you are physically able to return home).
  • In the event that you wish to remain in the hospital for a night, we can arrange that.
  • Prior to being discharged, you will receive postoperative instructions from the doctor.
  • Avoid athletic activities during the first 6 weeks after the procedure with the exception of walking.
  • You may take pain medication according to your doctor’s instructions. Most patients take pain medication for 2-6 days following the procedure.
  • Update your physician regarding any changes in your health status.
  • Postoperative follow-up visits will be scheduled during the first month, 3 months, 6 months and 12 months after the procedure.