What is Rhinoplasty?

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Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgical process which is performed to beautify or improve the appearance of nose according to the facial structure. In this process,  look of the nose is transformed by modifying nasal cartilages and bones. In some cases, additional tissue is also added. Apart from cosmetic reasons, rhinoplasty is also performed to repair nasal fractures. For patients suffering from nasal obstructions, another procedure called septo-rhinoplasty is performed. This process not only improves nasal appearance but also removes blockage inside the nasal passage. This surgery eases inhalation and exhalation.

How many types of Rhinoplasty are there?

There are two types: Closed Rhinoplasty and Open Rhinoplasty

What is Closed Rhinoplasty?

Closed rhinoplasty is a most common types of nasal plastic surgery. In this operation, all the incisions are hidden beneath the nostrils and never gets exposed. This surgical operation is highly beneficial if the patient wants to hide the scar marks. Closed rhinoplasty allows removal or implantation of bones and cartilages for  increase or decrease of the nasal size.

What is Open Rhinoplasty?

In open rhinoplasty, the incisions are made externally. In this surgery, the surgeon performs a cut in the columella which stands as a divider between two nostrils. This is the situ where nasal tissues are located. This technique is extensively used  as the  surgeon can easily visualize the shape and size of the nose. Results are often better compared to closed rhinoplasty.

What are the precautions for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is considered as outpatient treatment. It is often performed in hospital or surgicenter. The patient is discharged post surgery. In most cases, there is no need for hospitalization. There are certain medications which should not be taken prior to this surgery. Aspirin or equivalent supplement should not be used within 10 days of the date of surgery. Other non steroidal anti inflammatory medications like Motrin, Advil, Naprosyn should also be avoided within 7 days of the date of surgery. All medications must get positive confirmation from the pharmacist or caregiver. However, mild pain relievers like Tylenol is accepted. Usually these instructions are given by the doctor well in advance to avoid any health problem during or after surgery. Solid foods, fluids, chewing gum, and candy should be stopped within six hours of the surgery. Food in the stomach could lead to potentially fatal complications. Smokers should give up their habit couple of days prior to the surgery. It would prevent post-operative bleeding as coughing can be kept under control.

 

What are the risks associated with Rhinoplasty?

Every surgery carries certain complications. The risks associated with Rhinoplasty includes excessive bleeding, infection, anosmia (lack of olfactory functions), blood clotting, stroke, and heart attack. Sometimes, use of anasthesia can become fatal.

What is the post surgery care to be taken after Rhinoplasty ?

Post-surgery, when the patient recovers from anesthesia, he or she is discharged  immediately. However, they should be accompanied during travelling and night sleep. The patient should sleep with his head resting on elevated position. For this he or she can use 3 to 4 pillows as per their comfort. This helps to minimize the possibilities of edema and swelling. For couple of days, the patient might require assistance during excursions to the bathroom. Bruises and swelling surrounding the cheeks, nose, upper lip and eyes are quite common. However, those symptoms eventually wane off within 10 days. Moreover, to control pain and swelling, one can use ice pack on the swollen areas.

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