What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to improve the size, shape, and/or position of the nose.
More commonly referred to as a ‘nose job’, it is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available.
The patient may choose to reduce or increase the size of their nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between the nose and the upper lip.
How does it work?
The surgeon sculpts and reshapes the framework of cartilage and bone which makes up the nose.
Access to this is gained in one of two ways; either directly through the nostrils, or by means of a small incision across the columella (the vertical strip of tissue separating them).
This will depend on the nature of the individual case.
How long does the procedure take?
Between one and two hours.
What happens after surgery?
A splint or cast will be applied immediately after surgery.
The nose will be very sensitive for the first few days and there will be some pretty spectacular bruising during this time too, reaching its peak two to three days after surgery.
Cold compresses will help accelerate the healing process.
You will almost certainly look a lot worse than you feel.
The stitches are removed four to seven days after surgery, after which the cast will be replaced with a soft plaster, which must be worn for a further week.
There may be some bleeding in the first week to ten days but this isn’t cause for alarm.
It can take several months before the final effect is visible.
How long before I can resume my normal activities?
You will need to rest completely for two days and can return to work after the first week as long as you don’t mind being seen with the bandage and some swelling.
Intense physical activity should be avoided for about a month due to the vulnerability of the nose during this time.