(Nose Job Surgery)
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Rhinoplasty (nose job surgery) is the surgical procedure through which we are able to modify the appearance of the nose. In North America, more than half a million people a year opt to undergo this operation.
Why is rhinoplasty (nose surgery) such a popular procedure?
The reason is simple; the nose is the first and most noticeable structure of our face. It defines our appearance and its size and form determine how our faces will look. Even small alterations in the shape of the nose may improve our looks tremendously. The reasons why someone will decide to have a rhinoplasty are numerous. Some people have never liked the noses they were born with, others have suffered accidents that have altered their nasal appearance leading to cosmetic and breathing problems.
What makes a cosmetic nasal operation successful?
First, it is essential to enjoy good health prior to undergoing any cosmetic procedure. Then, since the "ideal rhinoplasty" does not exist, it is paramount to have realistic expectations and understand that the goal of the operation is to improve upon the original and have the new nose harmonize with the rest of the facial structures. The functionality of the nose must be preserved and any breathing problems will be corrected at the time of surgery. Other factors to consider are the age and sex of the patient, the type of skin and the ethnic background. Lastly, one has to consider that there might be some adjunct procedures that might be performed to improve even more the facial appearance. For example, it is very common to perform a chin augmentation in some patients undergoing a rhinoplasty.
How is a rhinoplasty (nose job) performed?
We normally perform this operation under general anaesthesia, but a local anaesthetic can sometimes be used. The incisions are normally made on the inside of the nose, but sometimes an incision on the skin between the nostrils is made. The scars are always virtually invisible. Through these incisions the skin of the nose is elevated off the cartilage and bone that support the nose. This cartilage and bone is then shaped and sculpted to the desired goal leaving an aesthetically pleasing and functional nose. If the nose needs to be augmented, cartilage from your nose (or elsewhere in your body) may be used to graft the necessary areas. The incisions are then closed and a splint is applied over the nose to allow for good redraping of the nasal skin and prompt healing.
How is the recovery after this type of surgery?
We normally keep the splint on for one week. The face will bruise and swell moderately during the first two days. The swelling and bruising tends to disappear towards the end of the first week. The pain experienced after a rhinoplasty is minimal, but adequate analgesics are always prescribed. We advise to avoid strenuous physical activity during the first ten days. The majority of patients are able to return to work after one to two weeks.
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