subject: Rhinoplasty Questions [print this page] Your nose is one of your most distinguishing features and creates overall harmony with your entire facial appearance. Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that enhances, reshapes, and straightens noses that do not seem to fit the face. Many rhinoplasty patients seek this procedure to improve their appearance. A slight alteration to the nose can drastically enhance your overall appearance and boost your self-esteem.
If you have questions about rhinoplasty and wonder if it is the correct plastic surgery procedure for you, you will want to schedule a confidential consultation with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon. Your plastic surgeon will answer all of your questions and guide you in your decision about rhinoplasty. The following questions and answers will help you determine if rhinoplasty is the procedure for you.
What is open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty?
There are two types of rhinoplasty:
Open rhinoplasty
Closed rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty requires external incisions. One incision is placed on the area of the nose between the nostrils that connects the tip of the nose to the top of the lips. This incision connects with other incisions placed on the inside of the nostrils. The skin of the nose is gently moved off the cartilage and the bones of the nose. The plastic surgeon then modifies the cartilage and the bones. The skin is placed back on the cartilage and bones and the incisions are closed. The scars involed in open rhinoplasty heal very well and are usually barely noticeable.
Closed rhinoplasty results in no external scarring. Any scars from the procedure are hidden inside the nose. The incisions made by the plastic surgeon during the procedure are placed inside the nose and the surgeon makes the modifications to enhance the nose by visualizing the structure of the nose from inside.
How long is the recovery period for rhinoplasty?
Following surgery, you will wear a nose splint for about five to seven days. There will be some bruising around your cheeks and eyes for three to five days. You can use cover-up makeup after the first three days to hide any bruising.
You may notice swelling for the first three weeks. The swelling will gradually diminish. Some minor swelling may last for several months. This swelling will most likely only be apparent to you. Your final results will appear six to twelve months after the rhinoplasty procedure.
Is rhinoplasty painful?
Most rhinoplasty patients describe the overall procedure as uncomfortable. If you experience any discomfort, your plastic surgeon will prescribe pain medications to help you manage your comfort level. Many patients manage their comfort levels with over the counter medications.
Will I return home after my rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure. You will be able to return home after your plastic surgeon is finished with the procedure and is comfortable sending you home. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 hours. Be sure to give yourself at least a few days of rest without returning to work or performing chores. You will want to wait to return to work until three to five days following the rhinoplasty procedure to give yourself adequate time to recover.
