Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that reshapes your nose. If you feel like your nose is out of proportion to the rest of your face, or if you are embarrassed about the size or shape of your nose, rhinoplasty may be a good option for you. Here’s what you should know about the procedure:
Before
Before the procedure, your doctor will give you instructions. Follow these instructions closely. Before the procedure, make arrangements for someone to drive you home after the surgery is over and make arrangements to take 7-10 days off of work. You should also set up a recovery area with plenty of pillows, and prepare ice packs ahead of time. Remember not to take anti-inflammatory drugs before the procedure since they could interfere with the surgery and the healing process. It is also important to quit smoking if you do smoke since smoking can increase risks during the surgery and hinder the healing process.
During
The procedure will probably take 1-2 hours. Local anesthesia or general anesthesia will be used depending on your individual situation. During the procedure, the surgeon will make adjustments depending on your current nose shape and your desired nose shape. In some cases cartilage will be removed from the edge of the nose, in other cases, excess bone and cartilage will be removed to get rid of a bump on the nose. This surgery can also be used to make the nose more narrow, to make the nostrils less prominent, or to correct a previously broken nose. The specific procedure will vary based on each individual.
After
After the procedure is complete, the surgeon will use a splint to hold the shape of the nose. In some cases, splints or padding will also be placed inside the nose. Splints can usually be removed a few days after the surgery. Most patients can return home the same day, but they’ll need someone else to drive. Once you get home, keep your head elevated (even while sleeping), apply a cold compress to your nose to reduce swelling and pain, use a saline nose spray to keep the nose moist, and avoid touching your nose as much as possible. To learn more about the procedure, contact Ponte Vedra Plastic Surgery for a consultation.
