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Rhinoplasty |
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What is a Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is the reshaping of the nose to improve its appearance and/or reduce breathing problems.
How is it done?
Rhinoplasty generally takes one to two hours. It may be performed under a local anesthesia, which numbs the nasal area, usually combined with intravenous sedation ,or a general anesthesia may be used. During the procedure the surgeon will reshape the bone and/or cartilage under the nasal skin. The procedure may also be part of an operation to relieve or remove obstructions inside the nose. After surgery, some combination of splints and nasal packs are typically used to support proper healing.
Why is it done?
Rhinoplasty may seek to increase or reduce the size of the nose; change the shape of the tip or bridge; narrow the span of the nostrils; or change the angle between the nose and upper lip. It may also seek to correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve breathing problems.
Risks & complications
Complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, as with any surgery, there are risks, including the possibility of:
- Infection requiring antibiotics and in some cases hospitalization
- Extended swelling an bruising. Normally, swelling and bruising should be expected for up to two weeks, however in some cases residual bruising may be noticeable for several weeks and subtle swelling for several months.
- Excessive bleeding during or after surgery
- Nausea, particularly if there is swallowing of blood
- Reaction to the anesthesia
- 10% of patients may require a touch-up or redo
Patients who commonly breathe through their nose may experience airway restriction causing a feeling of air hunger during the initial period after the operation. There will be a sense of pressure from the packing used following surgery.
Risks can be reduced by following the surgeon's instructions before and after surgery.
Alternatives
The surgeon may discuss alternative approaches to the Rhinoplasty procedure, for example the locations or types of incisions. However, the main alternative to Rhinoplasty is simply to leave the nose as is.
Candidate eligibility
The best candidates for Rhinoplasty are healthy adults and adolescents over the age of 14. The surgeon will make the final determination of each patient’s eligibility for the procedure after an examination and consultation with the patient.
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