Cosmetic Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)
Rhinoplasty is the medical term given to nose reshaping.
The nose is one of the most important features of a person’s face, and altering the shape of a nose can transform the way others view you - which makes it unsurprising that cosmetic nose surgery is becoming more and more common.
Can I benefit from cosmetic nose surgery?
Many people realise that they do not like the shape or size of their nose from an early age. Some seek to change this early on whilst others go on for years wondering how they would look if their nose was different. A Rhinoplasty can change the way your nose looks and in many cases is done with scars hidden within the nose where they are not visible. It is true though that even very small changes in the size and shape of a nose can dramatically change the way a face looks.
The best candidates for a Rhinoplasty are those who can identify something about their nose that they would like improved rather than wanting to match another person’s nose. Different faces suit different noses and trying to achieve a nasal shape which looks good on someone else may not look the same on you.
Sometimes nasal surgery can improve breathing problems, although this is not always the case: this can be discussed further at your consultation.
Planning your Nasal Surgery
During your consultation, you will be asked what you do not like about your nose. Our lead Consultant, Vivek, will discuss with you what can be achieved and whether this can be done from within the nose, or whether a small incision on the underside of the nose is required.
In most cases a Rhinoplasty is straight forward but sometimes bone or cartilage from elsewhere maybe required if your nose needs enlarging, however, in most cases this is not required and, again, this can be discussed further at your consultation.
It is important for your surgery that you say if you have had any previous operations on your nose, or if your nose has ever been broken.
What can I expect after my operation?
During your operation small sponges are inserted into your nostrils and a splint covers your nose. The sponges are normally removed the next morning and you are allowed home. The splint stays on for around two weeks. It is normal to have a swollen nose and bruising, which may include black eyes. You will feel "stuffed up" and may have a slight headache, however you will be given ample pain killers to counter any discomfort.
You may have the occasional mild nose bleed during the first few days. It is important that you do not blow your nose for the first 10 days after your operation.
After 2 weeks your splint will be removed and you will have your first look at your new nose. At this stage your nose will be swollen, although much of the swelling will settle over the first 4 weeks. During the first 6 months after your procedure you may have very mild nasal swelling and during this time it is important to massage your nose.
What risks are there with a Rhinoplasty?
Like most cosmetic surgery operations Rhinoplasty is part science and part art. No surgeon can guarantee to achieve the exact nasal shape you seek, but in most cases patients are happy with the results. Scarring within the nose is unpredictable and can occasionally affect the end result, and some patients may require a second operation to achieve the results they desire.
Sometimes small broken veins can appear on the nose, and while in most cases these disappear, occasionally they may remain - although they can often be improved through laser treatment. Vivek is a laser specialist and can advise you further.
Other, less common complications will be discussed at your consultation.
How long will my recovery take?
For the first 2 weeks after you surgery it is best to take things easy. After your splint is removed you will feel better and probably well enough to go back to a desk job. More active jobs may require another week or so and vigorous exercise should be avoided for the first six weeks.
Recovery after any operation tends to be very individual and Vivek will see you regularly throughout.
Contact us today for more information.