Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
Surgical/Procedure name:Augmentation Rhinoplasty, Alarplasty, Reduction Rhinoplasty
Common name:
Nose Job, Nose Surgery
Introduction
Rhinoplasty or nose surgery, sometimes referred to as “nose reshaping” or a “nose job,” improves the appearance and proportion of your nose, enhancing facial harmony and self confidence. Surgery of the nose may also correct impaired breathing caused by structural abnormalities in the nose.
During rhinoplasty, the nasal cartilages and bones are modified, or tissue is added, to improve the visual appeal of the nose. Rhinoplasty is also frequently performed to repair nasal fractures. When rhinoplasty is used to repair nasal fractures, the goal is to restore pre-injury appearance of the nose.Septorhinoplasty is a related procedure performed for patients who also have nasal obstruction. Septorhinoplasty not only improves the appearance of the nose, but it removes any internal obstructions that may be blocking nasal breathing.
What can surgery of the nose accomplish?
Rhinoplasty surgery can change:
Pre-Operative Care
Before surgery please inform your surgeon of any allergies, all medical conditions, and any medication that you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription). To eliminate the chance of post op. bleeding you should avoid aspirin and any medication containing brufen for two weeks prior to surgery. You should also not smoke for 2 weeks prior to surgery as smoking can affect your reaction to the anaesthetic and slow down the healing process. Patients that suffer from hypertension must inform the surgeon prior to surgery.
Post Operative Care
Following surgery your surgeon may ask you to wear a splint to support the position of the nasal bones. This usually stays in place for about 2 weeks. Gauze packing inside your nose may also be needed to avoid bleeding. This is usually removed the day after surgery.
Moderate bleeding from the nose is normal, and will gradually decrease. The gauze dressing ("mustache dressing") will collect blood and should be changed only when saturated. It is not unusual to change these dressing every hour during the first 24 hours after surgery. This dressing will usually not be needed after a few days. Do not take aspirin, aspirin-containing medications, or non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications (such as Advil) for 3 weeks following surgery.
Your surgeon will advise you when you may resume normal activities. You should not blow your nose for the first two weeks after surgery and avoid bumping or rubbing your nose for the next 3 months. Glasses should not sit on the bridge of the nose for the first month. Avoid any strenuous activities that may increase your blood pressure such as running, swimming or bending as this may cause your nose to bleed in the first month. Be gentle when washing your face and avoid fragrances that may cause you to sneeze. You may be required to remain in Thailand for 2 weeks for your surgeon to monitor your progress.
It is important to finish all the pills that have been ordered. Some form of a narcotic will also be prescribed (usually vicodin) which is to be taken as needed. If narcotics are taken, it is important not to drive or engage in activities where impaired judgment could cause injury. In some situations steroids may be prescribed to be taken either preoperatively and/or postoperatively. It is very important to take this medication as prescribed, and not discontinue it prematurely. An anti-emesis medication such as phenergan may be prescribed for nausea or vomiting postoperatively. Possible drug reactions to any of these medications, such as a rash, should be reported to the doctor as soon as noticed. No other medications, either prescribed or over-the- counter, should be taken without the knowledge of your doctor.
Results
After 2 weeks your bruising and swelling should have subsided and no one will be able to tell that you have had surgery. The result is a natural appearance with your nose more in proportion to the rest of your face. It may take up to 12 months before you see your final result.
It may take several months for swelling to fully dissipate and up to a year - and sometimes longer - for the outcome of the surgery to fully refine after rhinoplasty surgery. Although the results of nose surgery are usually permanent, cartilage may continue to reshape and move tissue that may change the outcome over time.
Risks and complications
Complications with Rhinoplasty are rare. Nevertheless, there is always a possibility of infection, nosebleeds, or a reaction to the anaesthesia. You can reduce your risks by closely following your surgeon's instructions both before and after surgery.
Following surgery, small blood vessels may appear on the skin's surface. These are usually minor, and can be corrected with a laser which eradicates the capillaries.
As for scarring, when Rhinoplasty is performed from inside the nose, there is no visible scarring at all; when an “open” technique is used, or when the procedure calls for the narrowing of flared nostrils, the small scars on the base of the nose are usually not visible.
Recommended min length of stay in Thailand14 days.
