Nose re-shaping

WHAT IS A RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE?

A Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping) Procedure can help men and women of all ages (dependent on skin condition) to correct a large, disproportionate or irregular shaped nose.

Nose reshaping surgery is one of the most commonly performed facial cosmetic procedures provided and is often performed as a result of a patient feeling self conscious about his or her facial appearance or profile for a number of years.

The ultimate objective of performing a Rhinoplasty is for the surgeon to create an evenly proportioned nose shape and profile which will harmonise with the other dimensions and features of the face and bone structure.

WHO WILL BENEFIT FROM RHINOPLASTY SURGERY?

Men and women of all ages who want to correct the general size of their nose.

  • Men and women who want to correct the disproportionate or irregular shape of their profile, bridge, nasal tip or nostril area.
  • Men and women who have had a traumatic or disfiguring injury to the nose.
  • Men and women who have an abnormally flat appearance to the bridge of the nose.

HOW IS A RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE PERFORMED?

A Rhinoplasty typically involves the surgical refining or removal of nasal bone and cartilage from just below the surface of the skin on the bridge, tip and/or nostril area.  Following this refinement the skin is then re-draped over the newly designed underlying structure.

This procedure is usually performed under general anaesthetic (you will be asleep) and will take around 1 hour to perform.  However, complicated procedures performed to either build up or reconstruct the bone and cartilaginous structures of the nose can take much longer. Patients typically stay in hospital for one night following surgery.

Internal sutures (stitches) are usually used during this procedure and are absorbable.  If external or unabsorbable sutures are used (usual only when a nostril reduction is performed) they will be removed after 5 - 7 days.  Most patients are required to wear a firm supportive nasal splint for 7 days post operatively.

This advanced corrective procedure is a very precise one and should only be provided by a Consultant Plastic Surgeon, fully qualified and experienced to skilfully perform this type of surgery.

WHAT IS THE RECOVERY LIKE?

Whilst a Rhinoplasty is usually considered a reasonably pain free procedure, the operated area is often quite tender for several months following surgery.  Analgesic tablets (pain killers) are always provided for any discomfort and patients are encouraged to stay as upright as possible during their early recovery stage to help diminish residual swelling and bruising.  Patients usually describe the way they feel as similar to having a heavy head cold, rather than experiencing specific pain. These symptoms diminish rapidly after the first week and as internal wounds heal.

In the early days following discharge patients are strongly advised to avoid any level of activity that would put undue strain on the newly operated area. Post-operative patients are also advised to only blow their nose gently and to pay meticulous attention to their personal hygiene during their recovery period.

Patients will also be advised to take a specific amount of recovery time away from work dependent on the type of work they perform, but it is usual to take at least a week to rest and recover at home whilst wearing the nasal splint.

It is often reported that sensitivity and numbness to the tip of the nose is a common side effect for up to 12 months following surgery.

Improved results will take place almost immediately following surgery but will be obscured by a firm splint or support, which is typically applied to the nose immediately after the procedure.  Inevitable facial bruising and swelling occurs following this type of surgery and can take up to 10 - 14 days to settle to an acceptable level of appearance.  After the initial swelling has settled down, subtle improvements to the contour of the newly shaped nose will gradually take place for up to twelve months following surgery. 

ARE THERE ANY RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH RHINOPLASTY SURGERY?

Risks such as bleeding, infection, delayed healing, alteration in sensitivity, scarring and misalignment will all be discussed openly at consultation, as well as our scrupulous efforts to manage and minimise these risks to their lowest possible potential.

Due to the additional healing and infection risks experienced with patients who smoke, smokers may be precluded from having surgery until they cease or substantially reduce their daily cigarette intake.

Although Rhinoplasty is regularly performed without any complications, it is very important that all candidates are fully aware of both the benefits and risks of undertaking this type of specialist aesthetic surgery.

All surgery, no mater how expertly or carefully it is performed, carries risks and the importance of a full evaluation and consultation to discuss your understanding and expectations in relation to these risks cannot be over emphasised.

HOW DO I FIND OUT IF I AM A SUITABLE CANDIDATE FOR RHINOPLASTY SURGERY?

At Spire Methley Park Hospitals our surgeons will carry out a full evaluation of your individual needs and circumstances and provide you with a comprehensive verbal and written explanation of any recommended treatment or surgery.

Our Expert Consultant Plastic Surgeons understand the importance of the decision you are making when contemplating Nose Reshaping Surgery. Throughout your consultation you will be encouraged to ask as many questions as you wish and to take your time in making a decision to proceed with any treatment.

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