ABOUT RHINOPLASTY

Rhinoplasty refers to a surgical procedure done to alter the shape and appearance of the nose. Commonly done for cosmetic purpose, it may also be performed to correct breathing problems related to the nose. It can correct disfigurement of the nose that has occurred because of trauma or birth defects. It can reduce or increase the size of nose, or change the size or shape of the tip, the bridge, or nostrils. The change can be made by adding or removing bone or cartilage, grafting tissue from another part of the body, or implanting synthetic material to alter the shape of the nose.

DURATION

Surgery takes about 1-2 hours. It can be done under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia. A hospital stay of 2-3 days may be needed.

RECOVERY

A nasal splint is applied for about a week to help the bones maintain their new shape. The nose may also be packed, or stuffed with a dressing, to help stabilize the septum. Post surgery, there would be some swelling and/or bruising on face and around eyes, which would gradually reduce. Lying down with head end elevated is recommended. Routine work can be resumed within a week. No strenuous activities are allowed for two to three weeks. Blowing the nose should be avoided for the first week to avoid disruption of healing. The final shape of nose will be apparent after it has healed completely.

RISKS

There are chances of infection, bleeding and scarring (specially when external surgical approach is used). A person may not get the desired shape as expected.

But the risk is minimized if the procedure is carried out by qualified and experienced Cosmetic surgeon.

PROCEDURE

Internal (from inside the nasal cavity) or external surgical approach may be used. During surgery, the skin is separated from the bone and cartilage support. The framework of the nose is then reshaped in the desired form. Shape can be altered by removing or adding bone, cartilage, or skin. The remaining skin is then replaced over the new framework.

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