Reviewed By: Op.Dr.Reşit Burak Kayan
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to alter the nose’s shape, size, and structure. It can be done for cosmetic reasons or to correct breathing problems. This section will discuss the rhinoplasty procedure and the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty.
What is a Rhinoplasty Nose Surgery?
It is a procedure that can improve your breathing if your nose has airway obstruction due to a deviated nasal septum or collapse of the cartilage of your nose.
Rhinoplasty nose surgery also known nose job, can be performed for cosmetic or reconstructive reasons. Cosmetic rhinoplasty nose surgery is done strictly to make your nose look better, and reconstructive rhinoplasty nose surgery is done to improve the function and breathing of your nose.
Rhinoplasty Procedure
During the rhinoplasty procedure, the surgeon will make incisions either inside the nostrils or across the columella, the narrow strip of tissue separating the nostrils. The surgeon will lift the skin that covers the nasal bones and cartilage through these incisions.
The surgeon can then reshape the nose by removing or adding bone or cartilage. They can also alter the size and shape of the nostrils, tip, bridge, and nasal bone. If necessary, the surgeon can also correct a deviated septum, which can cause breathing problems.
Open Rhinoplasty vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
There are two main techniques used for rhinoplasty: open and closed. Open rhinoplasty involves incision across the columella, while closed rhinoplasty involves incisions inside the nostrils.
Open rhinoplasty gives the surgeon better visibility and access to the nasal structure, making it easier to create more complex changes. However, it can also result in more visible scarring.
Closed rhinoplasty is less invasive and results in less visible scarring. However, making more complex changes can be more challenging for the surgeon.
Discussing the pros and cons of each technique with your surgeon is important to determine which is best for you.
Reasons for Rhinoplasty
The reasons for rhinoplasty can be broadly classified into medical and cosmetic.
Medical Reasons
Rhinoplasty can be performed to correct functional needs, such as breathing function issues or intranasal problems. A deviated septum, which is a common condition where the nasal septum is crooked or off-center, can cause breathing difficulties and nosebleeds. Rhinoplasty can correct a deviated septum and improve breathing function.
Cosmetic Reasons
Cosmetic nose job is performed to improve the appearance of the nose. It can correct various issues, including dorsal hump, crooked nose, asymmetry, and other facial features that are not proportionate or symmetrical with the rest of the face. Rhinoplasty can also be used to create facial balance and improve the face’s overall appearance.
In some cases, rhinoplasty is performed to correct congenital disabilities or injuries that have caused deformities in the nose. It can also be performed to address the effects of aging or to enhance facial features.
It is important to note that rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure and should not be taken lightly. It is important to discuss the risks and benefits of the procedure with a qualified surgeon before making a decision.
The Rhinoplasty Consultation
During a nose job consultation, the patient will meet with a plastic surgeon to discuss their surgical goals, medical history, and current medications. The consultation is an essential step in the rhinoplasty process, as it allows the surgeon to evaluate the patient’s needs and determine the best approach to achieve their desired results.
The surgeon will ask the patient about their goals for the procedure regarding appearance and breathing. They will also discuss any concerns or expectations the patient may have and any previous medical treatments or drug allergies. The patient must be honest and open during the consultation, which will help the surgeon develop a personalized treatment plan.
During the consultation, the surgeon may also physically examine the patient’s nose. This may include taking measurements and photographs and discussing any potential risks or complications associated with the procedure.
Preparation for Rhinoplasty
Before undergoing rhinoplasty surgery, there are several things that a patient should do to prepare themselves. These preparations include:
Health
Patients need to be in good health before undergoing rhinoplasty surgery. Patients with underlying health conditions should discuss their condition with their surgeon to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure.
Age
Patients who are considering nose job should be at least 18 years of age. This is because the nose is still growing and changing during adolescence, and it is important to wait until the nose has reached its full size before undergoing surgery.
Medications
Patients should avoid taking aspirin and anti-inflammatory drugs for at least two weeks before surgery, as they can increase the risk of bleeding. Patients should also inform their surgeon of any medications they are taking, as some medicines may need to be adjusted or stopped before surgery.
Supplements
Patients should avoid taking herbal supplements for at least two weeks prior to surgery, as they can also increase the risk of bleeding. Patients should inform their surgeon of any supplements they are taking, as some supplements may need to be stopped prior to surgery.
Smoking
Smoking can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery, and patients should stop smoking at least two weeks prior to surgery. Patients who are unable to quit smoking may not be good candidates for rhinoplasty surgery.
Rhinoplasty Procedure Details
Anesthesia
Rhinoplasty can be performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The choice of anesthesia depends on the complexity of the procedure and the patient’s preference. General anesthesia may be recommended for more extensive procedures, while local anesthesia may be suitable for minor changes.
Incision and Reshaping
Rhinoplasty can be performed using either a closed or open technique. In a closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nose, while in an open rhinoplasty, an incision is made across the columella, the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils.
After the incisions are made, the surgeon will reshape the bone and cartilage of the nose to achieve the desired result. This may involve removing or adding bone or cartilage, or repositioning existing structures.
Closing the Incision
Once the reshaping is complete, the incisions are closed using stitches. In some cases, splints or packing may be used to support the nose and help it retain its new shape.
After the procedure, patients may experience swelling and bruising, which can take several weeks to subside. Numbness and discomfort are common but can be managed with pain medication.
Intranasal tampons may be used to control bleeding and prevent the formation of blood clots. These are typically removed a few days after the procedure.
Rhinoplasty Recovery
After undergoing rhinoplasty, it is important to understand the recovery process to ensure optimal healing and results. Recovery time can vary depending on the extent of the surgery, but typically lasts several weeks to a few months. The following sections will cover immediate aftercare and long-term healing.
Immediate Aftercare
Immediately following rhinoplasty surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. Resting and keeping the head elevated is important to reduce swelling and promote healing. Pain medication may be prescribed to manage discomfort.
Patients should avoid blowing their nose for the first week after surgery and avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. Sleeping on the back with the head elevated can also help reduce swelling.
In addition, patients should follow any specific instructions provided by their surgeon regarding cleaning and caring for the surgical site.
Long-Term Healing
While initial swelling typically subsides within a few weeks, the new nasal contour may take up to a year to fully refine. Patients should continue to avoid strenuous activities and protect the nose from injury during this time.
It is important to note that while the majority of healing occurs within the first few months, final results may not be visible for up to a year after surgery.
Patients should also be aware of potential complications, such as infection or an uneven-looking nose, and contact their surgeon if any concerns arise.
Proper aftercare and a commitment to rest and healing can help ensure a successful rhinoplasty recovery.
Potential Risks and Complications
Like any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty comes with potential risks and complications. While the majority of patients have a successful outcome, it is important to understand the possible risks before deciding to undergo the procedure.
Risks
One of the main risks of rhinoplasty is bleeding. While some bleeding is normal after surgery, excessive bleeding can be a sign of a more serious complication. In rare cases, a blood transfusion may be necessary.
Infection is another potential risk of rhinoplasty. Antibiotics are typically prescribed to prevent infection, but it is still possible for an infection to occur. Signs of infection include fever, redness, and swelling.
Other potential risks of rhinoplasty include:
- Anesthesia complications
- Numbness or tingling in the nose or surrounding areas
- Difficulty breathing through the nose
- Nasal asymmetry
- Revision surgery
Pain
Pain is a common side effect of rhinoplasty but usually manageable with pain medication. Most patients report feeling discomfort for a few days after surgery, but the pain typically subsides within a week.
Scarring
Scarring is another potential complication of rhinoplasty. While the incisions are typically made inside the nose, there is still a chance of visible scarring. However, most scarring is minimal and fades over time.
Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to correct undesired results or complications that arise after a previous rhinoplasty procedure. In most cases, the goal is to correct nasal deformities left by a primary rhinoplasty by rebuilding the nasal tip or bridge of the nose.
Patients who undergo revision rhinoplasty are those who have previously undergone rhinoplasty one or more times and desire improvement in the appearance and often the function of the nose. These are among the most difficult cases aesthetic plastic surgeons face for several reasons. Revision rhinoplasty requires a thorough understanding of the anatomy and function of the nose and the ability to correct complex deformities that may have resulted from previous surgeries.
As its name suggests, revision rhinoplasty (a.k.a. secondary rhinoplasty) is a corrective surgery that aims to address the function and/or appearance of a nose that has already been operated on. However, revision rhinoplasty is the most difficult of all plastic surgical operations. It requires a highly skilled and experienced surgeon who can navigate through the scar tissue and correct the previous surgery’s errors.
Before and After Rhinoplasty
One useful tool for patients considering rhinoplasty is before and after photos. The surgeon can provide these and show the results of previous surgeries. Patients can use these photos to get an idea of what to expect from their own surgery and to communicate their desired results to their surgeon.
In conclusion, before and after photos can be a valuable tool fopatients dering rhinoplasty. However, it is important to choose a qualified surgeon and have realistic expectations for the surgery results. With proper preparation and care, rhinoplasty can be a safe and effective way to achieve a more balanced and harmonious facial appearance.
Things to Do Before Rhinoplasty Operation
- 1 week before the surgery, all blood thinner medication should be stopped.
- Alcohol intake should be avoided at least 3 days before the surgery and smoking should be minimized. Patients should stop smoking one day before the surgery.
- Patients must undergo certain tests before the surgery.
Things to Do After Rhinoplasty Operation
- After the operation, an ice compress must be applied to under eye and face area to prevent bruises.
- If patients experience pain after the surgery, prescribed pain killer medication must be used.
- After the operation, patients must sleep flat and with high pillows.
- Since possible impact will cause permanent edema, patients should avoid close contact.
- After the operation, patients should avoid excessive salt consumption and prefer food without salt.
- In addition to consuming plenty of water after the surgery, consuming pineapple to reduce edema will help a smoother recovery period.
Cost of Rhinoplasty
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average cost of rhinoplasty in the United States is $5,483. The price of rhinoplasty in Turkey varies between 2000 dollars and 5000 dollars. However, this average cost only covers the surgeon’s fee and does not include other related costs such as anesthesia, operating room facilities and post-operative care. Therefore, the total cost of rhinoplasty can vary significantly depending on these additional costs.
Patients should consult with their plastic surgeon’s office to determine their final fee. The surgeon will provide a detailed breakdown of the cost, including all the expenses associated with the procedure. Patients should also consider the surgeon’s experience and reputation when choosing a provider. A more experienced surgeon may charge a higher fee, but they may also deliver better results.
The cost of rhinoplasty also varies depending on the geographical location of the practice. For example, patients in major metropolitan areas such as New York City, London, Istanbul may pay more for the procedure than those in smaller cities or rural areas. Patients should research the cost of rhinoplasty in their area and compare prices from different providers to find the best value.
The importance of choosing a doctor in nose aesthetics
The nose is located in the center of our face is one of the most remarkable limbs. In rhinoplasty procedures, the natural and aesthetic perception rate should be well adjusted and the nose should be designed in accordance with the facial features of the person and should be compatible with the general dimensions of the face. Improper nasal aesthetics can cause problems in terms of both health and appearance. Therefore, choosing the right physician to perform a rhinoplasty operation is of great importance. Before the rhinoplasty surgery, the patient and the physician should undergo surgery, and the patient’s expectations and the recommendations of the physician must be met in common.
Frequently Asked Questions
The recovery time for rhinoplasty varies depending on the extent of the surgery. Generally, patients can expect to experience swelling and bruising for the first week or two after the procedure. It is recommended that patients take at least one week off from work or school to rest and allow their body to heal. Full recovery can take several weeks to a few months, and patients should avoid strenuous physical activity during this time.
Most patients experience no long-term side effects from rhinoplasty. However, in rare cases, patients may experience permanent numbness or breathing difficulties. It is important to discuss any concerns with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure.
As with any surgical procedure, there are risks associated with rhinoplasty. These can include bleeding, infection, adverse reactions to anesthesia, and scarring. Patients should discuss these risks with their surgeon before undergoing the procedure.
The results of rhinoplasty are generally long-lasting. However, the nose may continue to change slightly over time due to the natural aging process. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following your surgeon’s post-operative instructions is important to ensure the best possible outcome.
The decision to undergo rhinoplasty is personal, and patients should carefully consider the potential benefits and risks before making a decision. While the procedure can improve the appearance of the nose and boost self-confidence, it is important to remember that there are risks associated with any surgical procedure. Patients should discuss their goals and concerns with their surgeon to determine if rhinoplasty is whether rhinoplasty suits