Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to repair or reshape the nose. It can make your nose larger or smaller, straighten the bridge, reshape the tip, narrow the opening of the nostrils or change the angle between your nose and upper lip. It can also be used to correct defects resulting from trauma or birth, and may be used to help individuals with breathing difficulties. It is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures and offers excellent results.
A rhinoplasty can change the size, width and profile of your nose. It can smooth out depressions or bumps on the bridge, and fix an imperfect nasal tip (one that is too large, droopy or curves upward). Large or wide nostrils may be reshaped and a deviated septum can be corrected. Rhinoplasty is a common and safe procedure, but there are risks inherent with any surgery. These include infection, bleeding, pain, bruising, swelling, numbness, nasal asymmetry, skin contour irregularities and perforations in the nasal septum.
Surgery is performed using either a local or general anesthetic. It typically takes an hour or two, but when more complex restructuring is required, the procedure may last longer. An incision is made – usually inside the nostrils – and the nose is either reduced or augmented using cartilage from other parts of the body. If a deviated septum needs to be corrected, it is straightened. Once the nasal structure has been reshaped, the incisions are closed and a splint is placed to protect the nose.
Most patients return home the same day. You’ll be asked to rest in bed immediately after the surgery, keeping your head elevated in order to reduce swelling and bleeding. Dressings and splints usually come off after a week. You may experience puffiness in the face and bruising for a few days to a week while you heal. Rhinoplasty usually offers permanent results, though it may take up to a year for these to be fully noticeable.
Contact Sacramento Ear, Nose & Throat for more information or to schedule an appointment.