Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure where planning the new look of the nose is crucial. The plastic surgeon considers all facial elements and the current nose\’s characteristics.
Rhinoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries since the nose significantly impacts facial balance. Typically, the shape, size, and position of the nose are altered, and breathing issues are often corrected along with aesthetic changes.
A deviated septum and breathing difficulties drive many people to choose rhinoplasty, even if their motivation for changing their nose\’s appearance is minimal or nonexistent. Correcting a deviation that disrupts daily life, causing interrupted sleep, snoring, and excessive fatigue, can be combined with aesthetic improvements to the nose.
Rhinoplasty can correct:
- A nose that is too large or too small
- A crooked nose, whether congenital or due to injury
- A wide nasal bridge or round nose tip
- A bulbous nose tip
- Wide nostrils
- A drooping nose and inadequate space between the nose and upper lip
- Deviated septum and breathing difficulties
Rhinoplasty procedures are generally classified by their complexity into:
- Complete nose correction – involves correcting bones, often by changing their position
- Tip correction – involves only the cartilage and skin
- Nostril narrowing – similar to tip correction
Techniques for Reshaping the Nose
Depending on the problem, different techniques are used. Sometimes an \”open surgery\” is necessary to access the entire nasal structure, suitable when extensive corrections are needed. A \”closed surgery\” approach is used for moderate corrections.
Important Information about Rhinoplasty
Consultations about expectations are crucial, especially to clarify that a good rhinoplasty primarily aims to \”mimic nature.\” The new nose appearance should align with genetics and the rest of the facial features, aiming for a harmonious and natural look.
All preparation and postoperative information will be provided by the plastic surgeon.
A surprising fact for many patients is that there is no pain during nose surgery. Rhinoplasty is considered uncomfortable due to nasal packing, which forces breathing through the mouth for 1 to 5 days. Bruising and swelling are common, but pain is not.
Due to the unique healing process of the nose (involving bone, cartilage, and skin), an additional minor intervention may sometimes be needed. This might not be a surgical correction but could involve adding a small amount of filler to the nose tip.
This is more common for individuals with previously broken noses or repeated unsuccessful surgeries, and less so for those seeking aesthetic improvements without prior issues.