Rhinoplasty - What Should You Know?

One of the prominent facial features, the nose, in addition to being the pathway for air into the lungs, also plays a significant cosmetic role. A finely shaped, aquiline nose that is proportionate to the size of the face and is something most people desire, and some people would be ready to go undergo surgeries to get that desired shape and size.

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to correct the size, shape, and proportion of the face. While mostly done as a cosmetic procedure, it could be done as a therapeutic procedure too, where there are structural abnormalities causing congestion and breathing issues. Some of the common indications for this procedure include:

1. Nasal tip that is enlarged, bulbous, hooked, drooping or upturned

2. Size of nose out of proportion for the size of the face

3. Improper position of the nostrils (size or position)

4. Visible depressions or bumps on the nasal bridge

5. Asymmetry between the right and left nostrils

6. Nasal septal/ bony deviation that is visible externally

Depending on the desired outcome, some of the bones or cartilage in the nose may be removed or added. At the time of consultation, discuss your desired changes completely. Plastic Surgeon also can suggest you desired changes possible on your nose to get better one.

Before the procedure: Before going ahead with the procedure, get your expectations right. Nose has a prominent effect on a person’s appearance, and Post-Rhinoplasty, there would be definite change in the way you look, and it is best you prepare for this mentally before going for the surgery.

During the procedure: General Anaesthesia is preferred to make you comfortable and pain-free during Rhinoplasty.

Immediately after the procedure: In sequence, after Rhinoplasty, prepare for the following:

1. Considerable swelling of the tissue around the nose and eyes, giving a puffy face

2. A splint that needs to be worn at least for a week to keep the cartilages and bones in their new position

3. Cold compresses can be used to control the pain and swelling around the eyes and the nose

4. Complete the course of antibiotics and painkillers as advised by the doctor

5. Keep the head of the bed elevated for the first one

6. week postoperatively

7. Stay away from regular exercise for about a week to 10 days

Potential complications include:

1. Postoperative bleeding

2. Infection

3. Septal perforation

4. Unhappy with the results

While Rhinoplasty definitely can improve the appearance of nose and face at large and improve self-image in most people, it is best to set realistic expectations with the cosmetic surgeon by a thorough understanding of what you expect and what they can provide.