Rhinoplasty

 

Description

While the shape of the nose is usually the result of heredity ; the appearance may have been altered in an injury or during prior surgery or simply by aging.

Also known as rhinoplasty, surgery of the nose can change the morphology of the nasal pyramid (either partially or totally) by improving the appearance and proportion of the nose. The goal is to get a nose look natural, harmonious with other facial features and enhancing self confidence.

The procedure, performed as well in women than in men, can be scheduled at the end of growth starting at 16 years old.
Surgery of the nose may also correct impaired breathing caused by structural defects in the nose.
Rhinoplasty can change :
– Nose size, in relation to facial balance
– Nose width, at the bridge or in the size and position of the nostrils
– Nose profile, with visible humps or depressions on the bridge
– Nasal tip, that is enlarged or bulbous, drooping, upturned or hooked
– Nostrils that are large, wide or upturned
– Nasal asymmetry

The intervention

The procedure can last from 45 minutes to two hours. It is usually done under general anesthesia with a stay at the clinic from 12 hours up to 48 hours.
Incisions hidden at the nostril base and/or inside the nose allow access to reshape underlying cartilage and/or bone.This may include lowering humps, narrowing of nasal bones, shaping of the nasal tip or nostril size and improving the angle between the nose and the upper lip. The procedure also can correct breathing difficulties caused by structural irregularities.
A plaster model is often applied on the surface of the nose, a splint to maintain and protect the plaster is molded and attached to the nose.

Recovery period

The postoperative course is rarely painful. Mesh tubes are placed in the nostrils for 24 to 48 hours. During this period, breathing from the mouth is mandatory.
Bruises around the eyes last for around a week to ten days. Swelling of the nose lasts longer depending on the kind of surgery and is variable from one patient to another. It is recommended to rest and make no effort the week following the surgery.
The return to normal social and professional life can be scheduled 10 to 15 days after surgery. Sports and violent activities are to be avoided the first 3 months.

The result

Change can be noticed within 6-8 weeks following surgery, with continued refinement for 6-12 months.
Cartilage is a flexible and growing tissue, therefore results following surgery are not fully predictable.