Rhinoplasty does wonders to enhance self image, and patients with realistic goals are very satisfied with the outcome. It is Important to have a clear idea about what you want, and be able to communicate this effectively to your plastic surgeon. In addition, it is important that you understand from your consultation what is surgically achievable, and I usually take time in ensuring that this is so. The consultation comprises of a full medical history, with special emphasis on any previous surgeries carried out on the nose, any allergies, and difficulty in breathing through the nose. A painless internal examination of the nose is carried out, and facial features studied. At times it may be necessary to carry out a small procedure on your chin to improve facial balance-this will be done at the same time as the Rhinoplasty.Every Individuals nose is different, and therefore results will also vary in their outcome.

Your surgeons aim is to achieve the best possible result for you, given the anatomical constraints. Most incisions for changing the shape of the nose are made within the nose where they are invisible. Some surgeons will opt for what is known as an "open rhinoplasty" wherein the incisions are made along the inside rim of the nostril and also across the columella ( the vertical strip of tissue that separates the nostrils). This technique is generally used for difficult tip surgery or in patients who have had a number of operations before. Another external incision is when a small wedge of tissue is removed from the base of the nostrils, to narrow them. This is well hidden in the natural crease where the nostril joins the cheek, Through the incisions mentioned, work is done on the bone and cartilage which form the framework of your nose, It is sometimes necessary to remove some bone or add some cartilage to alter the framework so that when the skin is redraped over it the desired result is effected. Fortunately, significant complications with this sort of surgery are rare.

Many thousands of people every year undergo rhinoplasty with pleasing results. Some of the potential complications which will be discussed with you in more detail at the time of the consultation include bleeding, infection and reactions to anaesthesia. Numbness of the skin which may occur after rhinoplasty, is usually temporary. The nose is a dynamic structure and subtle changes will occur postoperatively while the swelling is reducing. This can go on for six months up to a year.Surgery may be undertaken under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthetic. You may be able to go home straight away following the procedure but generally the stay in hospital never exceeds a day.

Post operatively a splint may be used on the bridge of the nose to protect you while you sleep and shield It from accidental bumps. Packing Inside the nostrils may also be done, which is a bit uncomfortable. These are generally removed within 48 hours. For the first two days after surgery, you should restrict your activities and sleep with your head elevated. This should prevent minor bleeding and help to reduce swelling. Bruising around the eyelids is common when surgery to change the shape of the bones has been carried out , but this usually resolves in ten days. The surgical splint on your nose (if It has been used) can be removed in a week to ten days, after which you may be able to return to work. Most normal activities can be resumed within three weeks.