Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure popularly known as rhinoplasty or nose surgery. Rhinoplasty surgery aims to change the shape and appearance of the nose. This surgery can be performed for aesthetic reasons as well as to correct or improve nasal functions.

During rhinoplasty surgery, the nasal bone and cartilage tissues are shaped, cut or rearranged. This procedure can change the shape, size and proportions of the nose. The surgery is usually performed by cutting and lifting the skin above the nose and accessing the cartilage and bone tissues underneath. The nasal structure is then shaped to the desired shape and the skin is closed back.

Rhinoplasty surgery can be performed for the following purposes:

Aesthetic Reasons: Individuals who are dissatisfied with the shape, size or proportions of the nose can change the appearance of their nose in a more aesthetic and balancing way with rhinoplasty. In this, changes can be made in areas such as the tip of the nose, the back of the nose, the wings of the nose and the profile.

Functional Causes: Problems such as nasal congestion, breathing difficulties or septum curvature can be corrected during rhinoplasty surgery to improve nasal function.

Post Trauma Repair: Injuries or deformities in the nose caused by trauma or accidents can be corrected with rhinoplasty to restore normal appearance and function.

WHAT ARE RHINOPLASTY TECHNIQUES?

Rhinoplasty surgeries can be performed using different techniques. The method of the surgery is determined by factors such as the patient's nasal structure, aesthetic goals, the surgeon's preferences and experience. Here are some basic techniques commonly used in rhinoplasty surgeries:

Open Rhinoplasty (External Rhinoplasty): Open rhinoplasty is a technique performed through an incision made inside the nostrils and above the nasal cartilage during nose surgery. By lifting the nasal skin, the structures under the nose become better visible. This technique is usually preferred for complex revision rhinoplasty or cases requiring major shape changes. However, the risk of scarring is higher.

Closed Rhinoplasty (Endonasal Rhinoplasty): Closed rhinoplasty is a technique performed with incisions made through the nostrils. In this technique, the stitches are not visible from the outside. Tissue manipulation is more limited and the healing process may be shorter. Swelling and bruising may be less due to less tissue trauma. It may be preferred for simpler aesthetic changes and minor corrections.

Combination of Open Rhinoplasty and Closed Rhinoplasty: In some cases, surgeons may try to achieve the best results by combining both open and closed rhinoplasty techniques. This method may be preferred depending on the surgeon's experience and the needs of the patient.

Revision Rhinoplasty: It is a technique performed to correct or improve the result of a previous rhinoplasty. Revision rhinoplasty aims to correct the problems that occurred after the first surgery.

Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty: Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a technique to reshape the nasal bone or cartilage using ultrasonic devices. This method is preferred to provide a more precise and controlled shaping.

WHAT SHOULD BE CONSIDERED AFTER RHINOPLASTY SURGERY?

There are some important points that you should pay attention to in order for the healing process to be comfortable and successful after rhinoplasty surgery. Here are the points you should pay attention to after rhinoplasty surgery:

Rest and Recovery Process: It is important to rest and focus on recovery after surgery. You should avoid heavy physical activity for the first few days after surgery. Keeping your head elevated can reduce swelling and discomfort.

Pain and Medication: You may experience mild pain and discomfort after surgery. You can use painkillers recommended by your doctor. However, avoid medications that may increase the risk of bleeding, such as blood thinners or aspirin.

Wound Care: You should take care to keep the inside of the nose and suture areas clean and dry. You should take wound care according to your doctor's recommendations.

Swelling and Bruising: Swelling and bruising are normal after surgery. These symptoms will decrease over time. Cold compresses can help reduce swelling.

Nutrition and Fluid Consumption: You should pay attention to a good diet and sufficient fluid consumption after surgery. Healthy foods and water support the healing process.

Alcohol and Smoking: Avoid alcohol and smoking for at least a few weeks after surgery. Alcohol and nicotine can negatively affect the healing process.

Use of Glasses: If you wear glasses, avoid wearing them for as long as your doctor recommends. This can help reduce pressure on the nose.

Doctor Checks: You should have regular check-ups as recommended by your doctor. These checks are important to follow the healing process and results.

Waiting for First Results: It may take several weeks or even months to see the full result of the post-operative nose. The healing process may differ from person to person.

Following the Doctor's Instructions: You should definitely follow your doctor's recommendations and instructions. You should follow your doctor's advice to best manage the healing process and prevent unwanted consequences.

RHINOPLASTY AFTERCARE

You are now in the very early stages of healing and these are some of the things you may experience over the next 2-3 months.

It may take some time to become acquainted with your new nose so please don’t worry.

You may have different emotions - be very happy or feel shocked, tearful and very emotional, both reactions are very normal at this stage

DO NOT:

1. Have any facials or beauty treatments for up to 6 weeks.

2. Let anyone else inject your nose with fillers.

3. Undertake strenuous ‘red faced’ exercise for 3-4 weeks to minimise swelling in the skin.

Refrain from any contact sports for 6 weeks, as your nose will still be very vulnerable.

4. Fly for 10-12 days following surgery.

Your next appointment will be in approximately 12 weeks’ time, please do remember you’re still in the healing process. It is a long journey of around 6-12 months, and you will need to be very patient, so try to sit back and enjoy it.

Expect:

1. Congestion/difficulty breathing.

2. Dissolvable stiches that may be visible and will drop out of the nose.

3. To feel irregularities or notice asymmetries. This happens during the healing process.

4. Tingling, a woody sensation and numbness around the tip of the nose.

5. To be very aware of your nose!

What is important to you now:

1. You may blow your nose gently.

2. Moisture inside of your nose is helpful. Steam in the shower or use inhalations of steam up

to 2-3 times a day. This will help with congestion (congestion can normally be a problem for up to 6 weeks). We normally recommend a sesame seed oil spray e.g. Gelositin/Nozoil. These are soothing and minimise crusting.

3. Look after your skin– use a non-soap gentle cleanser and gentle exfoliation for the first two weeks. We will advise you on any additional products. Use a SPF 50 sunscreen all over the nose (including the base of nose) and face, for the first two months after surgery.

4. In the early weeks it is not unusual to detect an odour inside your nose, this is normally from the dissolvable stitches. Clean gently inside your nostrils with a moistened cotton bud.

5. You will see some variable swelling in your nose usually related to your skin type. We will advise you if tapping or massage is required. To massage, place your index finger on either side of the nose just below the bridge and sweep down the cheeks. Work your way down to the tip. Do this for 2-3 minutes as part of your skin care. We will instruct you about tapping if necessary.

6. You may wear makeup as soon as your plaster is removed.

7. Glasses are permissible. They sometimes, however, make an impression on your skin. You

may consider contact lenses if your nose is still too tender.