Rhinoplasty: Overview, Preparation, Procedure, Recovery, Risks, and Aftercare
Overview
For aesthetic or functional reasons, rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure designed to reshape or resize the nose. People seeking to improve facial harmony, correct nasal deformities, or improve breathing difficulties consider it one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the world. In addition to nasal humps, bulbous tips, asymmetry, deviated septums, and breathing obstructions, rhinoplasty can address a variety of concerns.
Preparation
Patients typically undergo the following preparation steps before undergoing rhinoplasty:
-
During a consultation, patients discuss their aesthetic goals, medical history, and suitability for rhinoplasty with a board-certified plastic surgeon. As part of the consultation, the surgeon assesses the patient's nasal anatomy, skin thickness, and facial features to develop a personalized treatment plan.
-
To assess nasal function and structure, patients may undergo a comprehensive medical evaluation, including a physical examination, blood tests, and nasal imaging studies (e.g., CT scans, MRIs).
-
In order to maximize surgical outcomes and minimize risks after rhinoplasty, patients are advised to quit smoking several weeks before and after surgery.
Procedure
Rhinoplasty typically involves the following steps:
-
Depending on the complexity of the surgery and the patient's preferences, rhinoplasty may be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia.
-
To access the nasal structures, the surgeon makes discreet incisions inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella (open rhinoplasty).
-
In order to achieve the desired aesthetic outcome, the surgeon carefully reshapes the nasal bones, cartilage, and soft tissues using surgical instruments. It is possible to reduce nasal bumps, refine the tip, narrow the bridge of the nose, or straighten a deviated septum using these techniques.
-
The incisions are meticulously closed with sutures, and nasal splints or packing may be placed during the initial healing period to support the newly sculpted nose.
Recovery
Patients can expect the following recovery process after rhinoplasty surgery:
-
A patient may experience mild discomfort, swelling, bruising, and congestion immediately after rhinoplasty. Pain medication, cold compresses, and keeping the head elevated can help alleviate discomfort and minimize swelling.
-
As the nose heals and settles into its final shape, residual swelling typically persists for several months, gradually subsiding as swelling subsides.
-
After rhinoplasty, most patients can return to work and light activities within 1 to 2 weeks, although strenuous exercise and activities that risk nasal trauma should be avoided for several months.
Risks
In general, rhinoplasty is safe when performed by a qualified plastic surgeon; however, there are inherent risks and potential complications, including:
-
Excessive bleeding during or after surgery is rare, but it can happen, requiring medical attention to prevent hematomas.
-
Surgical site infections are uncommon, but can delay healing and require antibiotics.
-
A rhinoplasty may worsen nasal breathing if the nasal valve collapses, the septum deviates, or excessive tissue is removed.
Aftercare
Patients should follow the following aftercare instructions after rhinoplasty surgery:
-
A saline nasal spray can facilitate healing and prevent crusting or infection by keeping the nasal passages clean and moist.
-
During the initial healing phase, patients should avoid putting pressure on the nose, wearing glasses, or engaging in activities that can cause nasal trauma.
-
Regular follow-up visits with the surgeon are essential for monitoring healing progress, removing sutures or splints, and addressing concerns or complications.
Rhinoplasty patients can make informed decisions, achieve their aesthetic goals, and enjoy long-lasting results with minimal risks by understanding the overview, preparation, procedure, recovery, risks, and aftercare associated with the procedure.
