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Rhinoplasty


Rhinoplasty (reshaping the nose), is a commonly performed procedure to improve one’s looks, and to improve self-confidence. A slight alteration of the nose can greatly improve one’s appearance.

Indications

Some are unhappy with the nose they were born with, and some with the way aging has changed their nose. For others, an injury may have distorted the nose or breathing may be a problem . Thus Rhinoplasty helps reshaping the nose which does not “fit the face” whether due to birth, trauma or disease.

The goal of Rhinoplasty is to improve the nose aesthetically (without creating a “surgical” look) in order to create harmony with other facial features. Cosmetic Rhinoplasty is undertaken to alter the shape and size of the nose, remove the hump, shaping of the tip and bridge of the nose . The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are physically healthy and realistic in their expectations. They are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look.

Consultation

During your evaluation, factors that may influence the outcome of the surgery, such as skin type, ethnic background, age and degree of nasal deformity will be discussed

Procedure

Rhinoplasty which normally takes one to two hours is usually performed under General anaesthesia Small procedures can be carried out with local anaesthesia and sedation.

During surgery the skin of the nose is separated from its supporting framework of bone and cartilage, which is then sculpted to the desired shape. Finally, the skin is redraped over the new framework. Depending on the nature of the correction needed incisions can be either within the nose, making their incision inside the nostrils or across the columella referred as ‘open’ rhinoplasty.This involves making a small incision across the columella, the vertical strip of tissue separating the nostrils. The difference bears little relevance upon the final shape of the nose.The incisions are then closed with fine suture, followed by placement of a splint to the outside of the nose to maintain its new shape. Nasal packs or soft plastic splints also may be placed in your nostrils to stabilise the septum, the dividing wall between the air passages. Additionally, some patients may choose chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty to create a better balance of features

Recovery

You’ll notice that the swelling and bruising around your eyes will increase at first for two or three days. Applying cold compresses will reduce this swelling and make you feel a bit better. Most of the swelling and bruising should disappear within two weeks . The nasal splint is usually removed seven days after surgery . The discomfort is minimal, and easily controlled with oral medication… Vigorous activity is avoided for three to four weeks following surgery. Sun exposure and risk of injury must be avoided.

Complications

In experienced hands complications are infrequent and usually minor. As with all surgery there is always a possibility of complications such as infection, nosebleed, or a reaction to the anaesthetic. Risks can be reduced by closely following instructions both before and after surgery..The scars will settle down well and become inconspicuous

In five percent of the cases, a second minor procedure may be required – for example, to correct a minor deformity. Such cases are unpredictable and happen even to patients of the most skilled surgeons.