Nose Surgery: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is a type of surgery that alters the shape, size, or functionality of the nose. Cosmetic concerns, such as a dorsal hump, nasal tip refinement, or nasal asymmetry, as well as functional concerns, such as difficulty breathing, can all be addressed with this procedure.
Preparation
Patients typically undergo the following preparation steps before undergoing nose surgery:
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During a consultation, patients discuss their goals, concerns, and expectations for the surgery. A plastic surgeon evaluates the patient's nasal anatomy and determines the most appropriate surgical approach.
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It is important that patients undergo a thorough medical evaluation to assess their overall health and identify any underlying medical conditions that may affect their candidacy for surgery. This may include blood tests, imaging studies, and other diagnostic tests.
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To minimize complications and optimize healing, patients who smoke are usually advised to quit several weeks before surgery.
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The patient may need to adjust or temporarily stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, herbal supplements, and nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), which may increase bleeding risks.
Procedure
Depending on the patient's specific goals and the surgeon's techniques, the nose surgery procedure may vary. However, the general steps are as follows:
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Depending on the extent of the surgery and the patient's preference, nose surgery is usually performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
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To access the nasal structures, the surgeon makes incisions inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella (open rhinoplasty).
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This may involve removing excess tissue, refining the nasal tip, straightening a deviated septum, or correcting other structural anomalies.
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Incisions are closed with sutures once the desired changes have been made, and nasal splints or packing may be placed to support the nasal structures during healing.
Recovery
Following nose surgery, patients typically experience the following symptoms:
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Cold compresses and pain medications prescribed by the surgeon can help alleviate swelling, bruising, and discomfort in the days following surgery.
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The patient is usually scheduled for follow-up visits with their surgeon to monitor their progress, remove any sutures, and assess the early results.
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During the initial stages of recovery, patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and activities that could increase blood pressure.
Risks
When performed by a qualified and experienced surgeon, nose surgery is generally safe, but there are inherent risks and potential complications, including:
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Bleeding
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Infection
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Nasal obstruction
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Persistent swelling
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Unsatisfactory aesthetic results
Aftercare
Patients should carefully follow their surgeon's post-operative instructions following nose surgery, which may include:
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During the healing process, patients may need to use nasal irrigation or nasal saline spray to keep their nasal passages clean and moist.
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During surgery, patients should avoid bumping, rubbing, or applying pressure to the nose, as this can disrupt the healing process.
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During the recovery period, patients should attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with their surgeon to ensure proper healing and address any concerns or complications.
