Rhinoplasty
Aesthetic rhinoplasty is a procedure used to improve the appearance of the nose. Abnormalities of the nose may occur after a trauma or a cancer, or can be congenital. Some functional impairment, including breathing difficulties, can also be treated during rhinoplasty procedures.
Pretreatment
During the preoperative appointment, the aspects of the nose to be corrected will be discussed with the patient. In order to make an accurate diagnosis and propose the right solutions, external physical and intranasal examinations will be performed.
It is important to tell the doctor if you have nasal obstruction, dry nose, or any type of rhinitis (inflammation of the mucous membrane of the nose with congestion or discharge). Some drug therapies such as saline sprays, corticosteroids, or decongestants must also be mentioned.
In some cases, the aesthetic reconstruction of the nose may require a cartilage graft. This graft is usually harvested from the nose itself, the ear, or the rib (more rarely). The resulting scars are small and usually very well hidden.
Conduct of the Procedure
Open rhinoplasty is a more extensive surgery during which a very small incision is made on the underside of the nose. Several aesthetic aspects can be modified. Closed rhinoplasty does not result in noticeable scars but only specific aspects of the nose can be changed.
In the vast majority of cases, the procedure is carried out under general anesthesia. Patients can return home after spending some time in a recovery room. Then, it is important to receive assistance and follow the instructions received when leaving.
Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to ensure no complications occur.
Rhinoplasty procedures often result in edema in the nose area, and inflammation may persist for several months. Aesthetically, a result can be seen as early as a few weeks after the surgery, but the final evaluation will only take place after 6 to 12 months.
Recovery Period
Ribbon gauze is applied inside the nose after the surgery. It helps decrease the risk of hematoma after the procedure. Despite being uncomfortable, this dressing is essential and must be kept in place for 24 to 48 hours. Mouth breathing is important during this period.
A dressing and a splint will be placed on the nose. They must be left in place for 2 weeks.
The head of the bed must be raised while you are sleeping.
Cold compresses will be applied on the first day.
Recommendations
When you sneeze, keep your mouth open.
Do not blow your nose.
Strenuous physical activities are prohibited for 6 weeks.
The use of glasses should be avoided for 6 weeks. Contact lenses should be preferred. If glasses are absolutely needed, they must be secured to the forehead to take pressure off the nose.
Minor Complications
Edema: normal after a surgery, and may persist for 6 months to 1 year. It will gradually decrease.
Bruising and hematoma: mainly found under the eyes. They usually disappear within one week.
Infection: very rare complication.
Skin necrosis: very rare. Necrosis occurs when a part of the skin does not receive enough blood supply.
Decreased sensation in the skin of the nose. It returns to normal within a few months.
Septum involvement resulting in breathing difficulties.
Deviation and irregularities of the nasal dorsum.
Loss of the sense of smell or lower olfactory capacity.
Asymmetry.
Severe Complications
When you are home, it will be crucial to contact your plastic surgeon immediately if one of the following symptoms occurs: chills or fever, significant nose bleeding, dizziness, fainting.