The definition of rhinoplasty is, literally, shaping the nose. First, incisions are made and the bone and cartilage support system of the nose is accessed.  The majority of incisions are made inside the nose, where they are invisible.

 

In some cases, an incision is made in the area of skin separating the nostrils.  Next, certain amounts of underlying bone and cartilage are removed, added to, or rearranged to provide a newly shaped structure.

 

For example, when the tip of the nose is too large, the surgeon can sculpt the cartilage is this area to reduce it in size.  The angle of the nose in relation to the upper lip can be altered for a more youthful look or to correct a distortion.

 

The tissues are then redraped over the frame and the incisions are closed.  A splint is applied to the outside of the nose to help retain the new shape while the nose heals.  Soft, absorbent material may be used inside the nose to maintain stability along the dividing wall of the air passages called the septum. Alternatively, soft nasal supports that permit nasal breathing post-operatively can be placed. Risk factors in rhinoplasty are generally minor.

 

Immediately after surgery, a small splint will be placed on your nose to protect it and keep the structure stable for at least five to eight days.  If packing is placed inside the nose during surgery, it is removed the morning following surgery. Your face will feel puffy, especially the first day after surgery.  Pain medication may be required.

 

Your surgeon will advise you to avoid blowing your nose for seven days after surgery.  In the immediate days following surgery, you may experience bruising and minor swelling in the eye area.  Cold compresses often reduce the bruising and discomfort.  Absorbable sutures are usually used that do not have to be removed. Nasal dressing and splints are usually removed six or seven days after surgery.

 

 

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