Rhinoplasty

Nose Reshaping Surgery
Why is it?
Rhinoplasty is a procedure which reshapes the nose by reducing or increasing its size, removing a hump, changing the shape of the top or bridge, narrowing the span of the nostrils, or changing the angle between nose and lip.

Why is it popular and what are the benefits?
The nose is one of the defining characteristics of the face, and a disproportion or irregularity can often cause self-consciousness. Sometimes irregularities are inherited (the “family nose”) and sometimes the result of a sporting injury of accident. As well as being unsightly, nasal deformity may also create physical repercussions such as breathing difficulties and sinus infections. Rhinoplasty can therefore not only dramatically improve the look of your nose and the overall symmetry of your face, but also its function.

What does the procedure involve?
The procedure is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Generally the surgeon will work from the inside of the nose: the skin and external area is not touched so there are no visible scars.

In open rhinoplasty a tiny scar is made outside. The actual technique used will depend on the type of reshaping to be done, and your surgeon will discuss this with you at your consultation.

What are the Risks and likely After-Effects?
Cosmetic surgery, like any other surgery, involves a “trauma” to the human body and there are risks associated with any procedure. Each person’s body is different, and your general health, level of fitness, age and genetic profile will all have an effect on the speed of healing and also on the risk of side-effects. If you smoke, drink alcohol, are overweight and/or take drugs for medical or other reasons, the risk of complication during and after surgery can be greatly increased. Smoking, in particular, is discouraged because it increases the risk both of infection and thrombosis (blood clots). After rhinoplasty it is normal for all patients to experience some discomfort, swelling, numbness and bruising. In a few cases there may also be a little oozing for a day or two after the operation. You can dab this away gently with a clean handkerchief or gauze square. The nose will feel “bunged up” for 1-2 weeks.

The most important fact that one needs to understand is that after rhinoplasty, the combination of the process of skin redraping, internal scar formation and the complete resolution of puffiness does not allow the complete settlement of shape for 9 -18 months in some patients.

What will happen after the Operation?
Post-Op
Your surgeon will see you when you have come round from the anaesthetic to check that all is well, and you will usually be discharged the same day. You’ll be given medication and post-operative instructions along with appropriate telephone numbers in case you need to contact us at any time. Cold compresses should be applied regularly for the first couple of days to reduce swelling.

Week 1-2
You will be fully mobile but may still experience some minor discomfort which you can control with prescribed painkillers. Bruising and swelling around the eyes will diminish and is usually almost gone after two weeks, and, importantly, you will look “normal” to other people. During this time you will also receive a post-operative check with our nurse. It’s worth anticipating your own reaction to the first sight of yourself and your new nose. To start with you will look rather strange in the mirror and not quite “you”. Remember that it takes a few days for your mind’s eye to adjust itself to your new appearance and to recognise it as “you”. You should not worry about any minor problems of shape immediately after the operation: it takes around 12 months for your nose to settle and for swelling to subside completely.

Week 8-10
Your surgeon will see you again, usually 8 -10 weeks after the procedure for a full post-operative consultation.

Full Post-Operative Cover
We’re confident that you will be delighted with the results. For that reason, we guarantee that we will provide post-operative cover for a full year after your procedure. It’s our way of ensuring that you have peace of mind and confidence in Visage. General matters pertaining to cosmetic surgery.

1. Expectations and limitations: Cosmetic surgery may satisfy many needs and often provides inner confidence. It may enhance your quality of life significantly. It is however, not the answer to all of life’s problems. It is vital to understand the limitation of such surgery. The purpose of cosmetic surgery is to improve one’s appearance. But do not expect miracles. Most patients understand these limitations and have a realistic view of what may be achieved. Unrealistic expectations may lead to disappointment.

2. General risks of Surgery and Anaesthesia such as blood clots, chest complications, pain and discomfort, infection, swelling, bruising, bleeding and haematoma, seroma, problems in the healing process, numbness, sensitivity etc.

3. Subjective Nature of Cosmetic Surgery: It has been emphasised that, the final assessment of the result is a matter of subjective opinion. Hence, while a probable expected result has been advised, this is in no way a guarantee of a good result.

4. Scars: All surgery involves creating some scars. Although these are placed in locations to hide, any scar, in theory, can become prominent. It normally takes 12-24 months for scars to fade away completely.

5. Time lag for final results: Every operation is followed by a period of healing, before tissues return to normal and the final result is apparent.

6. Numbness: Loss of sensitivity is a consequence of all surgery and it takes time for normal sensation to return.

7. Revisions and Refinements: Every operation may sometimes need more refinement to achieve a satisfactory end result.

8. General Asymmetry: Every human body is asymmetrical between left and right sides. This normal difference will persist after the surgery and shall be obvious.