Rhinoplasty

Definition: Rhinoplasty is what is commonly known as a nose job. It is an operation done to reshape the nose. It may involve reducing or increasing it in size.

The common reasons people request a rhinoplasty include:

  • Restoration of the shape of the nose following injury or trauma.
  • A change of the natural shape of the patient’s nose to one that is more aesthetically pleasing for e.g. reduction of the hump or length of the nose.

Anaesthetic: Usually general anaesthetic.

Duration of operation: 1½ to 2 hours.

Duration of stay in hospital: Usually an overnight stay.

Technique: The operation can be performed through incisions within the nose. Through these incisions the skin is lifted up & necessary adjustments to the bone or cartilage are made. Then the incisions in the side of the nose (mucosa) are then closed with absorbable sutures.

The operation can also be performed by lifting the skin up following an incision on the base of the nose. In which case the skin is lifted up as a sleeve, adjustments are again made to the bone & the cartilage & then placed back. Sutures are used to close the skin incision. This second technique is called the open approach. The scars are usually barely perceptible.

Following the operation a pack may be put in each nostril to help control the bleeding.

Post-Op Care:

  • The first night after the operation, because of the pack, the patient usually breathes through the mouth.
  • The packs are usually taken out the following day.
  • The patient is discharged on painkillers & antibiotics.
  • Instructions are given to the patient.
  • The patient is advised to sleep head up for a period of three weeks.
  • The patient is also advised to avoid intentionally sneezing or blowing the nose as this may dislodge a blood clot & cause some bleeding.
  • The splint put over the nose is usually taken out in 10 -14 days.
  • Bruising & swelling take about one week to three weeks to settle.

Risks/Complications:

There are general complications that can occur with any operation including bleeding, chest infection or problems with anaesthetic.

Specific problems may occur.

  • Bleeding may occur which occasionally can be difficult to control. Usually packs or gentle pressure will stem the bleeding.
  • Infection can occur & is usually treated with antibiotics. This can occasionally become very severe extending beyond the nose to the areas around the nose.
  • There may be a temporary loss or reduction of sensitivity to smell after the operation. For a very few people this can become permanent.
  • There may be irregularities of the underlying bone which can be felt by palpating the bone or there may be a residual hump.
  • There may be a need for minor adjustments usually a year after the initial operation.