Have you ever thought about getting a nose job, also known as rhinoplasty? Here are some important facts about rhinoplasty to help you make an informed decision about whether a nose reshaping may be the right cosmetic procedure for you.
First, rhinoplasty is not always about the cosmetic appearance of your nose. If your breathing is constricted for any reason, you may be a candidate for rhinoplasty.
Nose reshaping also works to improve your appearance by making changes to nose size and shape from the size and position of the nostrils, shaping the bridge of your nose by correcting any visible bumps or depressions in the nose.
There are several types of rhinoplasty. Open rhinoplasty is for major nose reshaping. Incisions are made in the columella, the strip of skin separating the nostrils. Closed rhinoplasty separates the skin from the bone and cartilage where the nose can be reshaped or rearranged to achieve the desired new shape. Filler rhinoplasty involves injectable fillers to fill depressions and smooth out sharp angles. This is also used to change the angle of the nose or restore symmetry.
Secondary rhinoplasty is performed to correct problems from a previous nose surgery. Often these problems are more involved and require an experienced plastic surgeon to correct.
The rhinoplasty process is usually performed as an outpatient procedure and takes anywhere from one to three hours. Surgery can be done with local anesthesia with some sedation or general anesthesia depending on the extent of the procedure. Once the procedure is done, (open or closed) the incisions are closed and a cast or splint may be applied.
Recovery can last approximately one month after surgery. Due to swelling and discomfort, you may not be able to breathe through your nose for the first 24 hours and the pain should subside in about 2 days. Blowing your nose is not permitted the first week after surgery and it is important to avoid any other trauma during this time.
After about a week, the cast is removed and much of the swelling will subside in about 2 weeks, with about 85 percent of swelling gone after a month. Remaining swelling can take up to a year to fully diminish.
Keep your expectations realistic and shoot for a natural appearance, one that is in balance with the rest of your facial features. No cosmetic surgery comes without some level of risk, which in the case of rhinoplasty includes: infection, bleeding, breathing issues, septal perforation or dissatisfaction with cosmetic results. Working with an experienced plastic surgeon can help to mitigate these risks.
Do you have more questions about rhinoplasty procedures? Contact St. Charles Plastic Surgery today to determine if you’re a good candidate for nose reshaping surgery.
