What does a Rhinoplasty procedure involve?

Rhinoplasaty is usually performed under "twilight" or general anesthesia. Rhionplasty can be performed either "closed " or "open. " Closed rhinoplasty involves placing all incisions inside the nose and relying on the healing process to give the final result. Open rhinoplasty involves inside incisions, as well as a small incision along the base of the nose. Direct access is then given to the nose so that the nasal cartilages are directly observed and manipulated. Cartilage is trimmed, sutured or grafted to give the desired result. A splint and tape are usually applied for a week. Healing continues for up to a year.

How long does it take to recover from rhinoplasty?

The patient will wear a splint on the nose for one week. Ater this splint is removed, the patient will look presentable and be able to return to most activities. Mild swelling will be evident to both the patient and the surgeon. This will continue to resolve throughout the next year leading to the final result.

What is Rhinoplasty?

A rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure used to alter the look of a person's nose. Rhinoplasties can reduce the size of an enlarged nose, improve a crooked nose, or reconstruct a damaged or functionally impaired nose.

What are the risks associated with Rhinoplasty?

Risks associated with rhinoplasty include, bleeding from the nose after surgery (epistaxis), unsatisfactory cosmetic result, loss of nasal support causing drooping or sagging of the nose, and perforation of the septum.

What are the benefits of Rhinoplasty?

A rhinoplasty can make a nose more aesthetically pleasing and appropriately sized for the patient's face. Rhinoplasty combined with septoplasty should also improve any difficulty in breathing that the patient is experiencing. Noses can be simply refined or significantly altered depending on the needs and desires of the patient.

Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

Patients should be at least 16 years of age to be sure that all growth of the nose and facial bones has occurred.  Almost anyone can undergo rhinoplasty, however, your medical history should be discussed with your surgeon prior to any planned intervention. Certain medical conditions may make a patient a poor candidate, including certain auto-immune disorders, bleeding disorders, or anatomic conditions.