Rhinoplasty
Cosmetic nose surgery is a procedure to straighten, reshape, or open passages of the nose. Because the nose is a central feature of the face, many patients wish to improve their appearance by changing the shape or size of their nose. Surgical experts can recommend measures, which include the following:
- Removing the hump on the bridge of the nose
- Narrowing the nose
- Refining or reshaping the tip of the nose
- Correcting a deviated septum, the cartilage separating the two nasal passages
- Within limits, many features of the nose may be modified to make it more attractive or regular.
The surgery is mostly done under general sedation. It may also be performed using intravenous anesthesia. This procedure may be performed at the same time as other cosmetic facial procedures.
The procedure involves making incisions inside the nose or through small cuts beside the nose. Any scars are usually out of sight or inconspicuous. The skin is separated from the supporting bone or cartilage, which is then reshaped to the desired profile. Natural elasticity of the skin allows it to take its new position. To conclude the procedure, a small splint is placed over the nose for support and to reduce swelling. Gauze to absorb bleeding may be packed into the nose, and is removed after one or two days.
The patient is able to recuperate, with adult assistance, at home or in a nearby hotel. The splint is taken off after five to seven days. Stitches to close incisions remain in place for about ten days. Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes is normal for several weeks following surgery. Temporary loss of feeling or sense of smell usually returns gradually over this period. Swelling may take as long as six months or more to go down completely. Depending upon the final result, a second, revision procedure may be required to correct minor irregularities.
In rare cases, infection or bleeding may delay the healing or result in scar tissue. Thick or oily nose skin may be less adaptable in cosmetic surgery.
| The surgery corrects deformities of the nose framework under the skin, can change the shape of the nostrils or change the angle between the nostrils and the lip. |  |
| Depending on the extent of the problem, the surgery can be performed with different incisions. To address problems with the tip, sometimes a small incision is made between the nostrils. If the nostrils are too wide they can be reshaped during the procedure. |  |
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Splints on the outside and perhaps inside the nose might be necessary after the surgery. |
Examples of this kind of surgery can be found in our gallery.