Rhinoplasty is a type of cosmetic procedure used to reshape the nose to improve its structure. Patients often have this procedure done to correct a deformity. For example, a person can have a nose job done to eliminate a bump on his or her nose, alter the size or shape, or to correct a birth defect. During a rhinoplasty procedure, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon can also alter a patient’s nasal shape so that he or she can breathe easier.
Those who are under the age of 16 should wait until their nose becomes more fully developed. In addition, this cosmetic surgery option is not ideal for those who smoke or drink. Both smoking and drinking reduces blood flow, which means that less oxygen reaches the skin. Necrosis can occur if the skin does not get enough oxygen during the wound-healing process.
Board-certified cosmetic surgeons can choose from two different procedures. If the patient’s nose only needs minor alterations, then the surgeon can make incisions within the nose to reshape it. Patients who need more drastic reshaping will undergo open rhinoplasty. During this procedure, the surgeon must create a vertical strip between the nostrils so that he or she can see the entire nasal structure.
The surgeon will start by placing incisions around the nose based on the alterations requested before the procedure. The surgeon will dissect the nasal skin, create a new structure and then drape the skin back over the area. During most rhinoplasties, the surgeon must use a nasal splint to help stabilize the nose’s anatomy.
The purpose of rhinoplasty is to change facial features in a subtle way that blends in with the rest of the face both symmetrically and proportionally. After the procedure, patients must take care of their nose so that it can heal properly. The healing process occurs gradually, so patients may experience inflammation and minor bleeding after surgery. It can take up to one year for the healing process to finish.
Those who plan to undergo additional facial procedures should ask their surgeon about having them done all at once. For example, a board-certified cosmetic surgeon can conduct a chin augmentation in conjunction with a nose procedure. Having multiple cosmetic surgeries done at once can help the surgeon maintain facial balance.
