The ideal nose varies from face to face depending on
skin type, ethnic background, age, and other variables.
During your initial cosmetic consultation, we will discuss
your concerns about your nose, your expectations, and
explain the probable outcome of your procedure.
We will show you several before and after treatment
photographs of patients with similar noses, and we will
explain the treatment you can expect to receive. Before
and after photos may be taken of your nose to document
your results.
Before making the decision to have a rhinoplasty, you
may wish to discuss additional facial procedures that
may enhance the results of your nose surgery. Many patients
elect to have chin or cheek implants to enhance and
balance their facial features.
THE PROCEDURE
Rhinoplasty is the reshaping of the nose. It can be
performed under IV sedation and local or general anesthesia.
The procedure usually takes an hour or two, although
a complicated procedure may take longer. Most incisions
are made inside the nose, where they are invisible.
The skin and tissues of the nose along with the underlying
bone and cartilage are sculpted to your desired new
shape.
If your nose is too large, for example, your surgeon
may sculpt away cartilage to reduce its size. Noses
that point up or droop down can be redirected by trimming
the septum which divides the two nasal passages. Skin
can be removed from both sides of the nostrils at the
center, to narrow the base of the nose. Sometimes the
contour can be improved by adding tissue such as cartilage,
bone or a silicone implant.
WHAT WILL MY RECOVERY BE LIKE?
Most rhinoplasty patients are up and active within
two days. Your first day should be spent in bed with
your head elevated. You will wear a small splint over
your nose to protect it and keep it stable, for a week
or so. Your nose and head will probably ache and your
face will feel puffy. This discomfort can be alleviated
with medication prescribed by your surgeon. After about
three days, the swelling and bruising around your eyes
will begin to subside. It should be almost completely
gone in about 8-10 days. Cold compresses applied
to the area will help reduce the swelling.You can return
to normal activity in 10-12 days.