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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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