Nose jobs – all you need to knowPublished on 19th March 2019
A rhinoplasty is the term used for surgical alteration of the nose. Commonly referred to as a nose job, rhinoplasty surgery is carried out for cosmetic purposes to improve the appearance of the nose, or as a reconstructive procedure to restore the form and functions of the nose.
Nose jobs are a popular procedure and one of the most common plastic surgeries performed in the UK, with 2751 carried out in 2017.
Why are nose jobs carried out?
There are several possible reasons why someone could be unhappy with the appearance of their nose. The nose might be considered too big in comparison to the rest of the face and may look out of proportion, there may be a bump in the nose, it may have a ‘hooked’ appearance, the tip may be too large, or the tip of the nose may be too close to the lips.
The characteristics of the nose are genetic, but noses can become misshapen due to an accident and an individual may want the defect cosmetically altered.
What does nose job surgery involve?
There are two main types of rhinoplasty: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. In open rhinoplasty, an incision is made in the columella, which is the fleshy part at the end of the nose. In closed rhinoplasty, the necessary incisions are made from within the nose.
Both types of rhinoplasty surgery are carried out under general anaesthetic usually, but can, rarely, be carried out under local anaesthetic.
Whether the procedure is open or closed depends on the individual, but your cosmetic surgeon will discuss the most appropriate approach for an individual patient.
Surgery usually takes between 90 minutes and 3 hours. Most patients stay in hospital overnight.
What to expect afterwards
Postoperatively, patients leave hospital with dressings in each nostril, and a splint in situ which will remain for about 7 days.
It is important to sit upright for a while, to ensure bruising is minimised. It’s a good idea to prop your head up on pillows for at least a few days postoperatively.
Swelling and bruising can persist for 2 to 3 weeks and can occur around and under the eyes as well as the nose. After bruising and/swelling has subsided, normal activities can be resumed, although vigorous exercise and contact sports are to be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks.
Open rhinoplasty typically has a longer recovery time of up to 6 weeks, but open rhinoplasty is carried out less commonly than closed rhinoplasty.
Mild pain can be expected which can be treated with paracetamol or similar over-the-counter medication.
The final results of the rhinoplasty are typically seen in 6 months to a year postoperatively.
Rhinoplasty surgery with Liverpool Cosmetic Clinic
Contact us for more information about rhinoplasty/nose job surgery in Chester and Liverpool and to arrange free advice with our highly skilled plastic surgeons.
*Figures BAAPS (2017)
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