Rhinoplasty is a procedure that changes the size and shape of the
nose, either by increasing or decreasing the bridge, changing the
angle, narrowing the nostrils or reshaping the tip. Although many
seek a rhinoplasty simply to change the shape of their nose,
others may choose nose surgery after a facial injury
or to help relieve nasal obstructions. When having
surgery to correct such a functional problem,
medical insurance may cover a part or all of the
surgical costs.
A rhinoplasty can help change
unwanted characteristics of your nose, such as a bump, but it is
important to remember that improvement, not perfection, is the goal.
The best candidates are healthy individuals with realistic
expectations. Although there is no upper age limit for nose
reshaping and nasal reconstruction, most surgeons prefer to not
operate on younger patients until they have completed their growth
spurts – usually in the mid teens for girls and the mid to late
teens for boys. A person’s social and emotional adjustment is also
taken into consideration. This is especially true for teens.
It is very important to have good
communication with Dr. Vincent. During your consultation, you and
Dr. Vincent will discuss what you hope to change about your nose and
how you would like your nose to look. Dr. Vincent will thoroughly
assess your nose and facial structure and discuss your options,
given the description of your desired nose. Your general health and
medical history may also be reviewed.
Dr. Vincent will discuss the
expected outcome, as well as timing and type of anesthesia
recommended. You will also talk about where the procedure will be
performed, the risks and costs involved and obtain answers to any questions you
may have. Some insurance companies will pay for a rhinoplasty if it
is done to correct a nasal obstruction. Check with your insurance
company to determine their coverage. Dr. Vincent will also discuss
factors that can influence your surgery and results such as what
medication, if any, you should avoid. You may also be asked to stop
smoking at least one to two weeks before and after any procedure. Be
sure to express any concerns or ask any questions you may have.
Although you will be mobile
immediately following your rhinoplasty, you will want to arrange for
someone to drive you home after surgery and to help around the house
for a day or two.
Most rhinoplasties are performed on
an out-patient basis and usually take an hour or two depending on the
extent of the correction. The procedure is commonly performed under
a local or general anesthetic, depending on the patient and surgeon
preferences.
Different surgeons prefer different
surgical techniques. Some surgeons will use a “closed” technique,
where the incisions are made inside the rim of the nostrils. Others
make their incision across the base of the nostrils and nose (the
“open” technique). This technique may be used in more complicated
cases, because the surgeon can more easily see the surgical area.
In either case, the soft tissues of
the nose are then separated from the underlying structures allowing
access to the cartilage and bone. The cartilage and bone are then
altered and sculpted into shape. At the same time, internal
problems, such as breathing obstructions can be improved by removing
the obstruction or changing the shape of the obstructing matter.
Also, if the nostrils are too wide, the surgeon can remove a small
wedge of skin from the base for a more harmonized look.
A lightweight splint may be placed
on the nose for several days after to help maintain its new shape
and for protection. Dr. Vincent may also use nasal picks inside the
nose to stabilize the septum – the dividing wall between the air
passages. These will be removed in about two days.
After surgery, you’re likely to
have swelling and bruising around your nose and eyes. This will peak
and begin to subside after the second or third day. Using cold
compresses and keeping your head elevated will help reduce this
swelling and it should almost be unnoticeable after two weeks or so.
A little bleeding is also common during the first few days. Any
bruising will fade after a week or so and discoloration will usually
disappear in two or three weeks. Camouflage cosmetics can be used to
cover the discoloration after the first day or two.
All splints, packing and stitches –
if they’re not dissolved – will be removed usually by the end of one
week, but they can be removed in up to three weeks, depending on
your condition.
It is common to experience some
nasal stuffiness, particularly if you’ve had surgery on the septum.
It may be a week or two before Dr. Vincent will allow you to gently
blow your nose.
You’ll need to be careful not to
hit or jar your nose, or allow it to sunburn for at least eight
weeks while your nose continues to heal. Although for two to three
weeks you should avoid any strenuous activity that raises your blood
pressure, Dr. Vincent will determine when you can resume this type
of activity given your particular case. You’ll also need to avoid
wearing glasses for a few weeks until your nose is completely
healed. In your follow-up visits over the months following your rhinoplasty,
Dr. Vincent will check your healing process.
Even though your new nose may be
hidden under some bruises and swelling at first, you’ll soon see
your terrific new profile. Remember, healing is a gradual process.
Most of the swelling will subside after the first week or two,
although it may take up to a year to see the final results.
Be sure to protect your nose and
enjoy your new look for years to come. And always wear sunscreen
to protect your skin and keep a youthful look.
Rhinoplasty is usually a safe
procedure with infrequent complications. When performed by a
qualified cosmetic surgeon, this popular procedure can help you
achieve your desired new profile.
While complications are unusual,
you should discuss the risks and the possible side effects with Dr.
Vincent. Dr. Vincent
will also discuss the technique he intends to use. In a few
cases, a second minor corrective surgery may need to be performed to
achieve the optimal look. You should have realistic expectations and
realize that while most of the change will be apparent within three
weeks, the finer refinements may take up to a year. Discuss the
benefits and risks with Dr. Vincent given
your particular circumstances.
Click here for more information on Cosmetic Surgery
Dr. Vincent
specializes in plastic and cosmetic surgery and his practice is located in
Ogden, Utah. Patients from the following cities and areas of Salt Lake City, West
Valley City, Provo, Sandy, Park City, Orem, Layton, Taylorsville, St. George,
Utah (UT) and Twin Falls, Idaho (ID) can conveniently schedule an appointment
with our Ogden, Utah office.
