Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty) is a procedure used to adjust, modify, or correct deformities in the nose. The reasons for nose surgery are many and can include functional predispositions or problems that can affect breathing, and general aesthetic desires to reshape the nose to achieve a better balance in relation to other facial features.
Functional issues can be addressed through nose surgery by repairing a deviated septum and/or correcting enlarged/deformed nasal concha—the turbinate bones (scroll-like bones that project from the lateral wall of the nasal cavity).
Aesthetic issues include changing the overall physical size of the nose to make it more symmetrical in appearance. Such things as reshaping the tip of the nose, removing cartilaginous bumps or protrusions, reduction of the width of the nose, or a nose implant to change the downward angle.
In most cases, you’ll wear a bandage or nasal support/splint for a week after the surgery. After ten days, most of the swelling and bruising will have disappeared, but there may be continued swelling in the nasal passages for a few months, depending on the extent of the surgery. However, you will appear normal to the average person and there will be no indications or visible signs that you had undergone nose surgery.
Incisions are made inside the nostrils or at the base of the nose. The surgeon works from inside the nose, carefully reshaping and sculpting the bones and cartilage. Incisions made inside the nose are never seen, while incisions at the nostrils heal to nearly invisible scars.
After surgery, a splint is applied to help maintain the new shape and to protect the nose. The splint usually comes off in less than a week, when the sutures are removed. You will need to rest in bed for a day or two with your head elevated. Any pain discomfort can be controlled by prescribed medication.