What is a rhinoplasty?
Most people know this procedure by the name "nose job." This is a delicate surgery to create a more alluring facial appearance, or to restore breathing function, or both. The actual surgical technique will vary based upon the needs of the patient. Issues such as a droopy nose tip, hump on nose bridge, bulbous tip, overlarge nostrils, an uneven nose structure, or deviated septum can be corrected via rhinoplasty.
Who is a candidate for a rhinoplasty?
To be a candidate for this delicate facial surgery, you should be in good general health. Most patients (unless the surgery is performed to address a breathing problem) should have reached age fifteen or sixteen, when the nose has stopped growing.
What type of anesthetic is used in a rhinoplasty?
Typically, a rhinoplasty is performed with the patient under general anesthetic or IV sedation. The idea is to provide comfort for the patient and make it possible for the surgeon to completely focus on creating the nose structure that will be a true enhancement for patient's other facial features.
How long will it take to recover from a Rhinoplasty?
The recovery time varies from person to person, but as a general rule, you will need ten days to two weeks for the initial healing phase, and for swelling and bruising to fade to a point where you will be comfortable returning to work or school. Your activities will be limited for longer, including avoiding vigorous physical activity such as exercise or sports for about four weeks.
I have heard of an "open rhinoplasty," and a "closed rhinoplasty." What's the difference?
An open rhinoplasty refers to a surgical technique in which the nose structure is accessed through the "columella," the section of the nose that separates the two nostrils. In a closed rhinoplasty, the surgical incisions are made within the nose. The choice between the two is based upon the extent of the required correction.
Is a Rhinoplasty painful?
You may need prescription pain medication the first few days after the procedure, but after that, just over-the-counter painkillers are sufficient and are not needed for long. Rather than being very painful, the initial recovery involves discomfort, as your nose is swollen and often has nasal packing, so you will have to breathe through your mouth. You will need to sleep with your head elevated, which could be an annoyance, but can help speed healing and reduce swelling and bruising more quickly.
What should I expect if I get a nose job? Will I know what it will look like when healed?
Your new nose structure will be planned far in advance of the actual surgical procedure. In your initial consultation, Dr. Sajan will show you visually what your new nose will look like when healed and show you images of other patients who have a similar facial structure and how they appear now. It can take several months (or longer) for the final appearance to be revealed, but even in the early stages of healing, the appearance is typically far more attractive than your original nose.