Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery that is used to improve the function (reconstructive surgery) or appearance (cosmetic surgery) of your nose. Rhinoplasty can be used for cosmetic reasons, correction of birth defects, or breathing problems. It reshapes or repairs. There is no visible scarring when rhinoplasty is performed from inside the nose. Small scars may show at the base of the nose when the procedure calls for the narrowing of large nostrils. These are usually not noticeable. There may be bruising in the skin following your surgery which are temporary.
Rhinoplasty is used to:
- Change the size
- Correct birth defects and injuries
- Change the shape
- Correct breathing problems
- It is usually not done until the nasal bone growth is complete. This is about after the age of 18.
Procedure
- Rhinoplasty can be performed under a general anesthesia or local anesthesia. Incisions are hidden inside the nostrils and sometimes are made on skin between the nostrils. Through these incisions, your surgeon is able to reshape the cartilage and bone.
- Sometimes a piece of your own cartilage or bone is used to strengthen or improve the build of the nose. This is also done for cosmetic reasons or to improve breathing.
- Improving nasal breathing is sometimes accomplished with a septoplasty. This may be done in combination with cosmetic changes. Cartilage removed can be used to improve the looks and framework of the nose.
Seek immediate medical care if:
- You develop increased pain or swelling in your face or around your eyes.
- You develop a temperature over 101º F (38.3º C).
- You have increased bleeding from your nose or a pus-like discharge from your nose.
- You lose your nasal pack prior to the time your surgeon says it is to be removed.
- You do not get relief from your headache or facial pain with medications or the problems seem to be getting worse.