Feeling like your nose is too similar to that turkey’s beak? Rhinoplasty may be an option for you! Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure which is usually performed in order to improve the function or the appearance of a person’s nose in terms of size and shape.. Rhinoplasty can be performed to meet aesthetic goals (cosmetic surgery) or for reconstructive purposes to correct trauma, birth defects or breathing problems (reconstructive surgery). Rhinoplasty can correct structural abnormalities such as a deviated septum, one of the most common conditions that can lead to breathing problems, chronic stuffiness, post-nasal drip and even snoring. It is also one of the most common types of plastic surgery procedures and the most common type of facial plastic surgery today.
There are two techniques that can be used when performing a rhinoplasty. One of the most common techniques is called “closed rhinoplasty.” In a closed rhinoplasty, all of the incisions used for the surgery are hidden inside the nostrils. This, of course, if a benefit because it means that the scars will be entirely invisible to the casual observer. Although this surgery does not offer quite as much freedom to the surgeon as an open rhinoplasty, it still offers a number of possibilities. For some patients, this surgery provides them with everything that they need. Even with all of the incisions made within the nostrils, the surgeon can still remove or implant cartilage and bone to reduce or increase the size of the nose. This is a good option for those just looking to remove a small bump on the bridge of the nose.
In an “open rhinoplasty,” there are more incisions then the closed technique and the incisions are external where as the closed incisions are internal. In the open technique the surgeon cuts the columella, the small tissue area which separates the nostrils. Surgeons use this technique more because it is easier to visualize how the nose will become. Also, more patients have open technique performed on them when they have previously had nose surgery.
After your surgery, most surgeons prescribe antibiotics, pain medications, and steroid medication. Your surgeon may recommend cold compresses for 1 or 2 days after surgery followed by alternating hot and cold compresses for 1 or 2 additional days. Most people choose to remain home for a week, although it is safe to be outdoors. It is highly recommended that the patient wears a hat to protect them from the sun if they are going to be outside as the skin on the nose will be very sensitive to sunlight.
If there are external sutures, they are usually removed 4 to 5 days after surgery. The external cast is removed usually after one week of the surgery. If there are internal stents, they are usually removed between four days to two weeks after surgery. Bruising will most likely occur and usually lasts two weeks. Due to wound healing after a rhinoplasty, there is moderate shifting and settling of the nose over the first year so it is important to be careful when exercising.
For more information on rhinoplasty, give us a call today!
Beverly Hills Plastic Surgery Group
(310) 275-6600
