Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
Rhinoplasty alters the appearance of the nose by re-positioning the nasal bones and trimming the bone and/or cartilage as needed. Cartilage may be moved, removed, or harvested from other areas of the body (ears or rib) to add to the nose. Problems such as a large hump or an overly broad or round tip can be corrected with rhinoplasty, as can asymmetry or other abnormalities in the appearance of the nose. Septoplasty may be combined with rhinoplasty to help improve airway/breathing issues.
Incisions for a rhinoplasty can be hidden inside the nose or be carefully placed across the skin between the nostrils, enabling access to the inner structural tissues of the nose.
Though rare, post-operative complications are possible. These can include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, contour abnormalities, delayed healing, loss of sense of smell, airway compromise, and the potential need for revisional surgery. Altered sensations (numbness, tingling, and/or hypersensitivity) are to be expected while you are healing and can persist for several weeks or months. Our health care team follows you closely to recognize and treat any complications, should they arise.
Consultation for this procedure includes a full exam of the facial and nasal anatomy, review of patient goals, education on the procedure, explanation of potential risks, complications, and benefits; and VECTRA® 3D imaging with simulation of potential results.
Additional details:
Anesthesia: General Anesthetic
Length: Approximately 2-3 hours
Preparation:
Candidates for this surgery should be at least 16 years of age. The surgeon will confirm younger patients have achieved full facial growth prior to undergoing any nasal surgery. Prior to booking, you should ensure you have a responsible adult available to care for and assist you with basic self-care for approximately 3-5 days. You cannot be alone for the first 24 hours following surgery. We also recommend having someone available to drive you to your post-op appointment(s). You must be prepared to pay a 15% deposit to secure your surgical date, and the remaining balance four weeks prior to your procedure.
Recovery:
Moderate swelling, bruising, and discomfort are to be expected; as is congestion and the inability to breathe through your nose (you will have external dressings and splints inside your nose to support the repair for about one week). You will be seen in office by our postoperative nurses around day seven post-op, and additionally as needed. They will assist you with incision care, suture and splint removal, and assessment of the surgical site; and will advise on long-term care and expectations. You must refrain from strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and any activities where your head is below your heart, for about 4-6 weeks after surgery.
As with any surgery, results cannot be guaranteed. The goals of cosmetic plastic surgery are improvement and rejuvenation, and perfection is not attainable. Final results depend on many factors and healing can vary from patient to patient. It is important to remember to have patience during convalescence to allow your body time to recuperate and settle.
Long-Term Follow-Up:
Rhinoplasty results can take up to a year to be apparent. Patients undergoing this surgery should be realistic and accepting of the lengthy process of healing. Patients will be seen in office by the surgeon approximately 6-9 months after surgery, and may be asked to return for final assessment and photographs at 12 months post-op.
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