The following post is a contribution from a PriceDoc Provider defining the rhinoplasty procedure in simplified terms. We hope this provides enough information to answer your questions.
- Definition of Rhinoplasty in simple terms:
- Rhinoplasty, nose job, nose reshaping, septorhinoplasty and nasal reconstruction are some of the common terms used to describe this procedure and all of them can be used inter-changeably. The procedure is aimed at improving the appearance of the nose and preserving or improving the functional nasal airway.
- Are there new techniques for Rhinoplasty available today?
- Modern nasal surgery aims at creating a natural appearing nose rather than an “operated look” of the past. It is an operation of skill and finesse and more dependent on the operator than on technology being used. Whether it is a plasma knife, laser or surgical skill, the tools have less relevance than who is performing the procedure. We often hear of non-surgical approaches where injectible fillers are used to modify the shape of the nose. These techniques are limited and not long lasting. There are open and closed approaches to rhinoplasty, but variations in technique do not necessarily change the outcome.
- What are the potential risks and/or side-effects from Rhinoplasty (if any)?
- Rhinoplasty is a low risk out-patient procedure, but like any surgical procedure, there are potential risks of swelling, bruising, bleeding and infection. Those risks are common to all surgical procedures of the face. Allergic reactions, breathing issues, post-nasal drip are also possible.
- Do I need any tests and/or exams before getting a Rhinoplasty (if any)?
- Like any out-patient procedure, pre-operative examination by a primary physician is often required. Blood tests for anemia and bleeding issues are also recommended. Your examining doctor may recommend additional tests specifically related to your medical history.
- How long does the take to complete the Rhinoplasty?
- In most cases, the procedure takes less than two hours, unless grafting of bone cartilage from other areas is required for a more complex reconstruction. Keep in mind that it usually takes another two hours to recover from the anesthesia, whether it was general anesthesia or twilight sedation.
- What is the recovery timeline of Rhinoplasty (if any)?
- The first few days after the surgery will include the patient wearing a bandage and a small cast on the nose, and there may be some packing or congestion inside the nasal cavity. Bruising around the eyes is not uncommon, but usually subsides within five days. After the bandages are removed, there is a period of swelling, especially around the nasal tip that can persist for several months. In the first couple of months, the nose looks more elevated than normal, and gradually it settles into place. There is some numbness of the tip of the nose and upper lip in the first few months, which resolves. In the post-operative period, you will look bruised, but the pain level is relatively minor.
- What do we know about outcomes for Rhinoplasty?
- This is usually a highly beneficial procedure for the right patient whose nose is out of aesthetic balance or has been injured. A well done rhinoplasty can greatly improve the appearance and should last a lifetime.
Many thanks to Dr. Julian Henley, who took the time to answer these questions for you! Hopefully, this information gets you started on your understanding of this procedure. If you have any other questions, leave them in the comments below and we’ll see if he will be available to answer them! -The PriceDoc Team
Dr. Henley is a successful ear, nose and throat specialist, as well as a facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over two decades of experience in private practice in Connecticut and New York. He is Board Certified with the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Cosmetic Surgery and is a member of the clinical teaching staff at Yale University. He has served his two medical fields of specialty, both in conducting complex cancer surgeries, and in developing groundbreaking new procedures in the field of facial plastics.
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I heard that after a rhinoplasty the patient should not sneeze? Why is that?
Right after surgery when nasal packing or splints are in place I advise patients to sneeze with their mouth open. This way we avoid high velocity air from causing bleeding. Normal sneezing habits can be resumed after 2 weeks when the internal nasal structures have healed and chances of stirring up unnecessary bleeding are minimized.