What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is one of the most common procedures that can make profound differences not only in the balance of facial features, but also in a person’s self-esteem. The aesthetic improvements that a rhinoplasty surgeon can make include decreasing or increasing the size of the nose, altering the tip or bridge of the nose, and narrowing or changing the shape of the nostrils. Birth defects can also be corrected and breathing can be improved. However, candidates must have realistic expectations and realise that improvement, not perfection, is the object of surgery. Rhinoplasty has the highest incidence of revisions.

What Happens in the Initial Consultation?

Photos must be supplied to the surgeon, so that he can see the problem area. First, you will discuss with the surgeon any history of injuries or operations to the nose. Then, you will need to describe how you would like the size & shape of the nose and tip to look. The doctor will analyse your face and decide with you what look will best fit the proportions of your face.

How is Rhinoplasty Performed?

Most nasal surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. Depending on the procedure, the doctor may use a local or general anaesthetic. With local anaesthetic, you'll usually be lightly sedated, and your nose and the surrounding area will be numbed; you'll be awake during the surgery, but relaxed and insensitive to pain. With general anaesthetic, you'll sleep through the operation. General anaesthetic is usually better for more extensive rhinoplasty or septal surgery. Local anaesthetic is usually better for small adjustments or hump removal.

Plastic surgery of the nose begins when the rhinoplasty surgeon makes an incision either inside the nose or across the skin that separates the nostrils (the columella). The cartilage and bone that make up the framework of the nose are then exposed and sculpted to create the desired shape and profile . Finally, the skin is secured to the new underlying framework.

How Will I Feel Post-op?

You will be sore for the first day or two, although the pain medication provided will help. Swelling and bruising will increase, particularly around your eyes and at the tip of your nose. Compressing an ice pack to these areas will help the healing process. Strenuous activity should be avoided for several weeks while the nose heals. You should also avoid sunburn.

What are the Risks and Benefits?

Rhinoplasty carries the same risks as any other surgery. Bleeding, infection, and reactions to medications or anaesthesia are possible side effects of rhinoplasty surgery. In addition, there are several risks that are unique to plastic surgery of the nose. These include burst blood vessels that can lead to red spots and small scars on the underside of the nose. You might also require a revisionary second procedure at some point in the future to remove or correct tissue.

What If I Don’t Like the Results?

When mistakes are made during a rhinoplasty procedure, or when patients are simply so dissatisfied with the results of their procedure that they cannot accept them, revision rhinoplasty is the answer. However, the tissue usually must be allowed to heal for some time before a revision procedure may be undertaken.

Am I a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is suitable for those who have a deviated septum or who have trouble breathing. The best candidates are those looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. Rhinoplasty can enhance your appearance and self-image, but it will not make you look like a movie star. Those that are physically healthy, psychologically stable, and have realistic expectations make the best candidates.

What are the Long Term Effects?

Your new look may take some time to get used to. Keep in mind that your nose will look better day after day and your confidence will increase. Remember that the healing process for the nose is gradual and the final shape of the nose can take up to a year to complete.

Which Celebrities Have Had Rhinoplasty?

Ashlee Simpson, Heidi Montag, Lisa Kudrow (Friends), Tori Spelling, Fergie (Black Eyed Peas), Sarah Jessica Parker, Matt Dillon and Howard Stern.