Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a nose job or nose surgery, is designed to improve the function or appearance of the nose. Since your nose is the centerpiece of your face, any small deviation from your ideal profile affects the overall appearance of your face.
The aesthetic goal of rhinoplasty is to achieve the refined appearance of the nose that is harmonious with the rest of your face. The procedure may be performed to correct a disfigurement, improve one’s appearance cosmetically, or simply to improve breathing difficulties.
Like the rest of your face, your nose undergoes changes with age. Preservation of structural integrity during the surgery is critical to optimal long-term outcome.
How is Cosmetic Rhinoplasty Performed?
Rhinoplasty may be performed under local anesthesia and mild sedation for minor nasal corrections, but most cases are done under twilight sedation or under general anesthesia.
A surgeon can perform cosmetic rhinoplasty through either an open approach, or the endonasal “closed” approach depending on the case.
Recently, there has been a trend among surgeons to favor the open approach rhinoplasty in which the entire skin tissue is elevated off of the nose for wide exposure.
For the patients with a severely crooked nose or undergoing revision rhinoplasty, the open approach rhinoplasty is performed. Otherwise, for straightforward primary rhinoplasty cases, the endonasal approach rhinoplasty is performed without any incisions outside the nose.
What Does Recovery Entail?
During the week following rhinoplasty, the patient must wear a nose splint. Patients may experience some bruising and swelling during the recovery process, especially in the area of the eyes. While some improvement is usually seen within five days, the total recovery process can take up to two weeks.
Prescription pain medication is administered to lessen any discomfort during this period. Some swelling may be noted for as long as six months, after which time, the nose should be fully healed. Any strenuous exercise or activity should be avoided for a month to six weeks following the surgery. You can return to your daily social routine within three weeks after the surgery.
Who are Good Cosmetic Rhinoplasty Candidates?
Candidates who are 18 years of age or over who have realistic expectations with respect to surgery are good candidates for the procedure.
Last week, we highlighted Birmingham MI Rhinoplasty, but we have surgeons throughout Michigan.
