What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, or nose job surgery, is a surgical procedure designed to alter the shape and size of the nose. It is one of the most commonly requested cosmetic surgeries today. It can be used to correct a wide range of aesthetic and functional issues related to the nose. Rhinoplasty can improve the overall balance of the face, correct breathing problems, and correct deformities resulting from trauma or birth defects. In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of the rhinoplasty surgery process.
Rhinoplasty Surgery Process First Step: Consultation
The first step of the rhinoplasty surgery process is a detailed consultation with the patient’s plastic surgeon. During this consultation, the surgeon will discuss the patient’s desires and expectations. Your surgeon will ask questions about medical conditions that may affect the surgery. The surgeon will also perform a physical examination of the nose, including taking photographs and measurements. Your surgeon can use photos and measurements to create a computer-generated simulation of the patient’s desired outcome.
After Consultation
Once the consultation is complete, the patient and the surgeon will develop a surgical plan. This plan will include the type of anesthesia, the types of incisions, and the type of procedure. The patient will then receive pre-surgery instructions, such as avoiding certain medications and abstaining from smoking for several weeks prior to the surgery.
Day of Surgery
On the day of the surgery, your surgeon will give the patient given a local or general anesthesia depending on the type of procedure being performed. Once the anesthesia has taken effect, the surgeon will begin the procedure. For open rhinoplasty, the surgeon will make an incision across the columella (the tissue that separates the nostrils). Then, the surgeon will separate the skin from the underlying bone and cartilage. For closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made inside the nose, allowing the surgeon to access the bone and cartilage without making any external incisions.
After the incisions, the surgeon will reshape the bone and cartilage to achieve the desired outcome. The surgeon will then close the incision with sutures or surgical tape. Depending on the extent of the procedure, the surgery may take anywhere from one to five hours to complete.
Rhinoplasty Surgery Process: After the Surgery
Once the surgery is complete, the surgeon will apply a splint or cast to the nose to protect it during the healing process. Your surgeon will also give a set of instructions to follow during the healing process, such as avoiding strenuous activities, sleeping with the head elevated, and avoiding blowing the nose. The nose will typically begin to show some results within the first week. Full results may not be visible for several months.
Conclusion
Rhinoplasty surgery can be a life-changing experience for many patients. However, it is important to understand that the surgery is not without risks and complications. It is important to discuss these risks with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure. With a thorough understanding of the rhinoplasty surgery process and a qualified plastic surgeon, patients can achieve their desired outcome and enjoy their new look for many years to come.