After Rhinoplasty

The nose being the most visible part of a human body it is the first to be viewed with dislike if it does not fall in favor of the owner. However, as the structure of the nose is hereditary, all are born with them and only if it is drastically different would people go to great lengths to change its appearance. If the nose is curved, or flared, or if the bridge is broken or if it causes problems while breathing, people opt for nose jobs which can correct any such situation.

Accidents, illness or fights may result in the change of the nose from the original shape and hence rhinoplasty gives opportunity to these people to restructure their nose. Also, those in films, modeling and other allied professions, for whom the nose is very important from the cosmetic point of view; a nose job can be make or break their career.

Non surgical nose jobs consist of using fillers to alter and reshape a person’s nose structure without invasive surgery. Since 2003 this has been a practice used by many doctors. The depressed areas on the nose can be filled, the tip altered by lifting it or the bumps on the nose can be smoothened.  This method can create a symmetrical nose and a better balance with the face. Because this method is not invasive there is a minimum of bruising or swelling and the recovery is quick. Calcium hydroxypatite, hyaluronic acid fillers, artefill are some of the materials used for this procedure.

In other cases nose surgery is the only option. Small incisions are made in the inside of the nose or on the septum dividing the two nostrils and the tissues are adjusted and the bone and cartilage redone to get the necessary shape. Though the operation is of short duration, it needs anesthesia which can be local or general. After the operation, splints, internal tubes and packing may be placed inside the nose and splints and bandages outside the nose to support them during the initial healing. This will be there for five to eight days. There may be puffiness and pain for which medication will be given.

There may be some bruising and discomfort for a few days after the surgery. The patient has to take care not to blow his nose for seven days at least. He should not have exposure to the sun, there should be no exertion and any risk of injury has to be avoided. The head has to be kept elevated for some days following the procedure. If the patient uses spectacles, arrangements have to be made so that they do not put any pressure on the operated area. Any unusual bleeding or pain should be reported. The swelling and discomfort will disappear within a couple of weeks but it will take at least six months for the final shape of the operated nose to stabilize.