1. How many follow-up visits are needed after rhinoplasty surgery?

Early follow up visits include removal of packing (if placed) and suture removal (as necessary). Later visits are as frequent as the surgeon desires. My protocol is 5-7 days, 1 month, 3 months and 6 months.


2. When are the splints removed after rhinoplasty surgery?

Splints are placed for protection of the nasal bones. I place splints only if the nasal bones are broken as a step of the procedure. They are placed for 10-14 days


3. When are the stitches removed after rhinoplasty surgery?

The stitches are removed 5-7 days after rhinoplasty surgery.


4. When is it okay after rhinoplasty surgery to run or lift weights?

Non contact sports can be resumed fairly quickly, generally 1-3 weeks after surgery.


5. Is it possible for the nose to grow after rhinoplasty surgery?

The nose continues to grow over an individuals lifetime. This does not stop as a result of rhinoplasty. The deformity corrected generally does not recur, however.


6. What kind of material is used when grafts are needed to rebuild the nose?

For primary rhinoplasty (first time rhinoplasty), the patient's own cartilage is generally preferred. This can be harvested from the septum or ear cartilage. For secondary rhinoplasty (revision rhinoplasty) these cartilages may be insufficient or unavailable. Permanent implant material which is structurally solid is most often used in that case.


7. What sort of surgeon is preferable?

A surgeon skilled in rhinoplasty is obviously preferred. Finding this surgeon can be difficult. Generally board certified plastic surgeons or facial plastic surgeons are most experienced and qualified to do rhinoplasty.