RHINOPLASTY - COSMETIC NASAL
SURGERY
 Cosmetic rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty is a
surgical procedure designed to reshape the nose. The goal of the
procedure is to provide a nose with a pleasing esthetic or cosmetic
appearance while maintaining or improving nasal function. In most
septorhinoplasties the bone and cartilage of the nose is gradually
reduced to provide a nasal shape and form that is appropriate for the
patient's other facial features. For example, if the patient has a
large bump or hump on the bridge of the nose this is reduced to
provide a better side profile. If the tip of the nose is too large
then the nasal tip cartilages are sculpted to reduce the overall size
of the nasal tip and also to provide a more triangular appearance to
the base of the nose.
In almost all cases attention is also needed to be directed to the
nasal septum to correct a septal spur or deviation as well as
treatment of the inferior turbinates if required.
In your preoperative consultation with Dr. Keohane he will
carefully examine your nose and describe for you the abnormality as he
perceives it. In most cases a detailed endoscopic and video
examination is also performed so that you better understand the
anatomy and physiology of your nose.
Rhinoplasty can be performed in many instances using a intranasal
approach in which all the incisions are placed inside the nose. This
generally leads to less postoperative swelling and a more rapid
convalescent or healing period.
In approximately 1/3 of cases due to a severe cosmetic abnormality
or a history of previous surgery it is necessary to use an external or
open approach in which a small incision is made in the area of skin
separating the nostrils.
If this approach is used, the sutures will be removed approximately
five to seven days following surgery and the scar should be
essentially invisible at a period of six weeks to three months.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY
Immediately following surgery a small splint will be placed on the
nose. This will be removed approximately five to seven days following
surgery. In order to prevent postoperative bleeding the nose is gently
packed with sponge packing resembling small tampons. The function of
the sponge packing is to absorb secretions immediately following
surgery and in the vast majority of rhinoplasties the packing is
removed within one to two hours following surgery.
Most patients will experience a small amount of postoperative
bruising and in most cases are able to return to normal physical and
social activities within ten to fourteen days.
The vast majority of healing will occur within the first six weeks
however subtle changes to the nasal tip and bridge of the nose will
continue for a period of up to six months to one year.
Most people expect rhinoplasty to be a painful operation, yet, in most
instances this is not true. Most patients experience nasal
congestion similar to a head cold and will require a minimal
amount of postoperative pain medication for the first three to four
days.
Follow up care is vital for this procedure to monitor healing and
it is important you are seen at regular intervals for the first year. |
