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Rhinoplasty encompasses all those procedures designed to alter the size
and shape of the nose.
Augmentation Rhinoplasty involves making the
nose larger, often utilising specially shaped silicone implants.
The much more commonly performed Reduction
Rhinoplasty involves reducing the bone and cartilage
‘skeleton’ of the nose in order to improve the
overall size and shape of the nose.
If the patient also has difficulty
breathing, then the wall of tissue that separates one side of the nose
from the other may require adjustment (Septoplasty).
Occasionally, it is necessary to shorten the
nose and slim down a particularly bulky tip (the so-called Rhino-tip
procedure). In addition, the shape and size of the nostrils may be
altered.
Who is suitable for Reduction
Rhinoplasty?
- Men and women who are dissatisfied with
the size and shape of their nose
- If there is a bump on the bridge of the
nose
- If the nasal tip droops
- If the tip of the nose is thickened and
enlarged
- If the nostrils are excessively wide
- If the nose is off centre or asymmetrical
- The nose continues to grow until the age
of about 16 years. Therefore, most surgeons recommend postponing
surgery until at least this age.
What to think about at this stage
It is important that before you see the
surgeon, you consider what you are trying to achieve from your surgery.
In many ways, this is of particular
importance with Rhinoplasty, where patients may have been
self-conscious about their nose for many years. The nose, being the
most central prominent feature of the face, can produce all manner of
emotions for the patient. The aim of surgery is to make the nose more
acceptable in the eyes of the patient. Therefore, before you see the
surgeon, you must be absolutely certain regarding what it is about your
nose that concerns you. It is only when the surgeon knows exactly what
you wish to achieve that he is able to determine whether it is
technically possible.
Also remember that other facial features
have implications for the overall appearance of your face. In order to
keep your face in proportion, your surgeon may advise altering the chin
or cheek etc.
How is Rhinoplasty performed?
- The operation may be performed under
local anaesthetic with sedation. However, the majority of patients have
general anaesthetic.
- Incisions are made inside the nostrils.
There are no external incisions. Both bone and cartilage are excised to
make the bridge of the nose straighter, and where the bones of the nose
join the check is cut so that the nose may be made narrower
- It takes about sixty minutes
- Most patients stay in hospital for one
night
- If your work is not physical, expect to
return to work within one to two weeks
- Expect to be back to normal physical
exercise within four to six weeks
Following the operation
As with all surgery, you must expect to
feel bruised and sore, especially around the eyes. Patients are adivsed
to keep their head up as much as possible. You will have to wear a
splint over your nose for about seven to ten days. This is to hold the
nasal bones in their new position. Most patients report that the
operation is surprisingly painless. In most cases, it takes three to
six months for the swelling to go down completely and for the
appearance of the new nose to appear.
Risks & Complications
Cosmetic surgery is amongst the very safest
of medical procedures. However, all patients must understand and accept
that no surgical procedure is absolutely free from risk.
At Consultation, Mr Rezai will discuss these
risks with you. In addition, they are all fully outlined in the
“Patient Guide” for Rhinoplasty.
How long will the results of your
Rhinoplasty last?
The result of Reduction Rhinoplasty is
permanent. Any revisional surgery that might be recommended is only
likely to take place after the healing process is complete. Most
surgeons advise waiting at least a year.
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