Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to alter the appearance of your nose. The surgery can change the shape and size of your nostrils, the width of your nose bridge, or correct injuries or birth defects that impact breathing. The procedure is performed in our clinic and hospital under general anaesthesia, or local anesthetic if you are having other procedures done at the same time.
Generally, rhinoplasty patients are able to leave the hospital the same day as their surgery. However, depending on the complexity of your case, you may be required to stay in the hospital for one night to monitor any nausea or other health concerns.
Before the procedure, the surgeon will discuss your concerns and examine the nasal structure. This can be a difficult conversation for many people, but it is essential to have open communication with your surgeon to ensure that the desired results are achievable and realistic.
The physical exam helps the surgeon to determine what changes need to be made. This includes looking at the skin and soft tissue envelope, which can be thin or thick based on multiple characteristics. The thickness of the SSTE can have a significant impact on the final nose shape and size and can also affect how small changes in cartilage and bone structures will look.
Swelling can take up to a year to subside, but you’ll begin to notice the results of your rhinoplasty within four to six weeks. During this time, it’s important to protect your nose from sunlight and avoid situations where your nose might receive inadvertent contact so that the healing process goes smoothly. nose surgery