Improving the features of the nose and face through cosmetic surgery can also involve improving its function and helping with breathing. Find out more about what happens during rhinoplasty and the recovery process.
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is an operation to change the shape of the nose. Surgery employs reduction, augmentation or refinement to give a balanced and proportioned nose.
Rhinoplasty can be used to adjust a range of elements regarding the nose. The surgery may be able to help you with the following.
- Straightening of the nose
- Decreasing the size of the nose
- Increasing the size of the nose
- Removing bumps on the nose
- Adjusting the shape of the nose tip
Who can have rhinoplasty?
Adults can have rhinoplasty as the nose usually stops growing as you reach 18 years of age.
Many people have ideas about how they want their nose to look, but discussing these with your surgeon is important. They may not be able to achieve the exact nose you want for a variety of reasons.
We’ll work closely with you to ensure that you are happy with the projected outcome of your rhinoplasty procedure.
Before having a rhinoplasty, you should have a thorough consultation with your surgeon. We can ensure that you are comfortable and know everything you need to know to make an informed decision.
What happens during the rhinoplasty operation?
Before the procedure begins, photographs will be taken of your nose at different angles. This helps to show the differences after you have had the surgery.
You will have a general anaesthetic before small cuts are made in your skin. The thickness of your skin can impact the results of your surgery. Depending on the requested changes, your surgeon will work on various areas of the nose. They may remove some sections of bone to achieve your desired look.
We will inform you of any side effects and how long you will need to rest.
Rhinoplasty recovery
After the surgery, your nose will be dressed accordingly to reduce the risk of bleeding. You will also have a splint on the outside of your nose to hold everything in place. This is usually only for the first week after surgery.
Most people are only in hospital for the day after rhinoplasty, as it is reasonably low risk. It is recommended that you take at least one week off work and potentially two. You will need to be careful not to knock your nose for a while.