Nose Re -Shaping (Rhinoplasty)

Nose Re -Shaping (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty is the cosmetic surgery of the nose. This procedure aims to modify the shape of the nasal pyramid (either partially or completely) and can also if necessary correct nasal breathing problems. The result should be a nose in harmony with the facial features, and which corresponds to the personality and expectations of the patient. The technique uses incisions hidden inside the nostrils and remodels the bone and cartilage which give each nose its distinctive shape. The skin covering these elements will be re-draped and will adapt to the new nose. This point shows the importance of the quality of the skin for the final result which is obtained with no visible scar. This procedure carried out both for men and women, can be done from the age of 16, when growth is complete.

This operation is usually performed under general anesthesia be preferable. The nose may be made smaller or straightened, a bump removed, the tip may be redefined, the septum may be straightened or the nostrils reduced in size. In some cases a cartilage or bone graft will be used to fill a hollow zone, to support part of the nose or redefine the tip. Sutures: The incisions are closed with fine sutures, usually dissolving ones. Dressings and splints: The nostrils are packed with gauze. An external dressing of tape is applied then a splint of plaster, plastic or metal is molded and fixed to the nose, this can sometimes extend to the forehead. The operation can take between 45 minutes and 2 hours depending on the specific requirements and complexity of the case.

The nasal pack makes it impossible to breathe through the nose which is a problem for the first few days. Swelling can be observed around the eyelids with bruising which is variable in degree and duration for each patient. During the first few days rest is advised, with no physical strain. The pack is removed 2 to 5 days after the procedure. The splint is removed 5 to 8 days after surgery, to be replaced by a smaller splint for a few more days. The nose will appear bigger because of swelling and it will still be difficult to breathe because of swelling of the lining of the nose and possible scabs in the nostrils. The visible signs of the operation will disappear gradually and a return to normal social and professional life is possible after 10 to 20 days. Sport and strenuous exercise should be avoided for 3 months.

The possible complications of rhinoplasty include :

• Bleeding: this can occur in the first few hours after surgery but is usually moderate. If bleeding persists more wadding should be added, or a return to the operating room may be necessary.
• Wait until the healing and Hematoma: these must be drained if too painful or too large.
• Infection: in spite of the natural presence of germs in the nostrils this is very rare.
• Abnormal scarring: this can only concern external scars (if any) and is rarely a problem to the point of requiring a second procedure.
• Sores: these are rare but can be caused by the splint. Small sores or wounds heal spontaneously leaving no mark, but skin necrosis, which is very rare, will leave a small scar.