Rhinoplasty is a common surgical procedure performed on the nose to change its structure or to improve its function. It is a procedure in which the bridge, tip, and nostrils of the patient's nose are altered according to their preference. Rhinoplasty surgery is intended for patients whose noses have been affected by developmental or acquired defects.

When is Rhinoplasty Surgery Recommended?

During rhinoplasty surgery, the surgeon can reduce or enlarge your tip or nasal bridge, change the angle of your nostrils, and narrow them. More significantly, they can also remove protruding bones from inside your nose to make it smaller and reshape its hump.

This procedure is typically performed on patients who want to change the look of their nose for cosmetic reasons. The following are five instances when rhinoplasty is recommended to improve a patient's appearance:

• Patients who have large nostrils which make them look older or fatter than they really are.
• Patients whose noses are too small for their faces.
• Patients who have a bump on the bridge of their nose that causes low self-esteem.
• Patients with features that don't match, such as wide nostrils and thin lips.
• Patients who have suffered an injury, such as a broken nose.

Surgery Duration, Cost, and Recovery

This surgical procedure usually lasts between 1.5 and three hours, depending on the extent of the operation. Rhinoplasty is typically performed with a local anesthetic, although general anesthesia can be used if necessary. The average cost of this surgery varies depending on the extent of surgery and whether or not it is combined with another procedure. Usually, rhinoplasty surgery is covered by health insurance.

After rhinoplasty surgery, bandages and splints can be used to reduce swelling or help stabilize any broken bones. An antibiotic ointment is typically applied to prevent infection. Antibiotics can also be prescribed in pill form. Pain medication is usually prescribed to reduce pain during the recovery period. Most people recover from rhinoplasty surgery in two weeks, although the swelling and complete healing can take several months.

Does Rhinoplasty Surgery Have Any Risks?

The usual side effects of general anesthesia may be experienced. For instance, you could develop irregularities in your breathing, feel nauseated, and develop sore throats. If you have stitches that fail to dissolve or become infected, a minor procedure to remove them would be required.

In some cases, the bruising and swelling that follows the operation could last for a few months. Also, the possibility of post-operative infections remains, so you may have to take antibiotics and an antibacterial nasal spray as prescribed by your doctor.

The Bottom Line

Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure to change the shape, size, and contours of the nose. The surgery is mainly used to correct deformities caused by illness, injury, or birth defects. It can significantly help people breathe better and improve their self-esteem. For more information about revision rhinoplasty, contact a local professional, such as Susan L. Chobanian, M.D.