Rhinoplasty is a common surgical procedure in which the nose is reshaped. It is performed for a variety of reasons: lengthening or shortening the nose, straightening the bridge, reshaping the tip, changing the shape of the nostrils, and more. Rhinoplasty may be performed for cosmetic reasons, or to help patients with breathing difficulties.
Rhinoplasty is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures, and is a safe and effective method of correcting nasal imperfections.
What Does Rhinoplasty Surgery Entail?
If you’re having a rhinoplasty procedure, you can expect the surgery to take an hour or two, on average. You’ll be given general anesthesia, and the surgeon will make an incision inside your nostrils, in order to reshape your nose. Cartilage from other parts of the body is used if you are undergoing any sort of augmentation. When the surgeon is finished with the reshaping, the incisions are closed. You will be given a splint and packing for support during the healing process. The procedure carries little risk, but there may be side effects such as bleeding, pain, bruising, swelling, numbness, and perforations in the nasal septum.
You are usually given permission to return home the same day, unless the procedure is complicated and involves significant restructuring. Bed rest is recommended immediately afterwards, and you’ll be asked to keep your head elevated to reduce bleeding and swelling. There may be some facial bruising and swelling for a few days. Your dressings will be removed in about a week.
Most patients experience permanent, lasting results with a rhinoplasty. It may take up to a year for the results to become fully noticeable.