Rhinoplasty is a procedure when the nose is reshaped for either cosmetic or reconstructive reasons. The word comes from the Latin and the Greek languages: rhino (Latin for ‘nose’) and plasty (Greek for ’shaping’ or ‘forming’). Most of us know rhinoplasty as a ‘nose job’.
This procedure can be done to make the nose smaller or to change the tip for a more attractive look. Even the angle between the upper lip and the nose can be changed. If someone has incurred an injury or an abnormality of the nasal cavity due to an accident or injury, it can be corrected through reconstruction of the nose. This will enable the patient to breathe correctly through the nostrils.
There are two methods used during rhinoplasty. They are the open method or the closed method. Both will require incisions inside the nostrils. However the open method requires a second incision to be made in the fleshy piece between the nostrils. This piece is divided so that adjustments can be made to the cartilage and bone.
To get your desired result, the surgeon may have to break or chisel some bones, and your cartilage may need to be trimmed. When the procedure is finished, your nasal passages will be packed and a splint put on the outside of your nose. 24 hours later the packs can be removed, but your splint will stay on for another week. The operation usually lasts for 1 or 2 hours. You will be given a local or a general anesthetic.
About 3 days following surgery, swelling and bruising will occur around the eyes and nose. This is expected to last for 3 weeks. In this time, the patient may suffer other side effects such as numbness in parts of the nose, an aching nose, or headaches. If bones were broken during the surgery, healing will take longer.
You can expect your recovery to be rather unpleasant and very painful, especially if you have had a revision rhinoplasty. This is a second procedure on your nose. The best way to relieve the pain and help reduce swelling is to apply a soft ice pack for 20 minutes. Remove it for the next 40 minutes and then re-apply it. This should be continued all through the day.
Your head should always be elevated. Lie on a recliner or use 2 or 3 pillows. Maintain this position when you sleep or rest. When your head is angled at 30 – 45 degrees this will stimulate your circulation and help reduce swelling. If you follow these tips you should make a good recovery after your revision rhinoplasty.
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