Rhinoplasty
(Nasal Contouring)
Rhinoplasty, otherwise known as nose surgery, is a procedure performed
to rebalance and/or reshape the nose. This procedure entails altering
the nasal structure most commonly by removing a 'hump', narrowing
of the nostrils, repositioning the tip, or expanding the tip.
There a number of other options for contouring the nose. Sometimes
Dr. Weikel will suggest enhancement of the chin to provide more
facial balance. Augmenting the chin,
even just slightly, can give more balance and a better result
to nasal surgery.
When considering nose surgery it is important to clearly identify
one's expectations with your surgeon. As the central facial feature,
understanding rhinoplasty and patient/surgeon expectations is
extremely important. Like any other cosmetic procedure, rhinoplasty
can improve one's appearance dramatically, offering a greater
sense of self-confidence and self esteem. This procedure can also
alleviate breathing difficulties, a common symptom known as a
deviated septum. Rhinoplasty is performed on patients of all ages,
most commonly beginning at the age of fifteen, when the facial
structure is fully developed.
General
Technique
When performing the rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Weikel will make
a small incision within the nostrils. When working within the
nostrils, minimal, less obvious scarring can be achieved. Depending
upon desired results he may reduce the hump and or reshape the
tip cartilage. Since there are no outside skin incisions there
are no real surgical bandages or dressings. Sometimes a "splint"
is applied to hold in place the new contour or shape of the nose.
This is removed in 7-10 days.
Post
Operative
Immediately after surgery there is minimal pain, which is controlled
with pain medication. To reduce bruising and swelling the head
must be kept elevated for several days, cold compresses may be
applied as well. The splint and packing is removed within the
first week. Within the first three weeks extraneous exercise such
as aerobics, running, swimming, etc. should be avoided. The bruising
will dissipate within the first week to two weeks, subtle swelling
may still be present but only to you, not to the average person.
This too will subside within a few weeks. Many patients return
to work after one week, concealing any bruising or swelling with
makeup. If possible two weeks is ideal as the majority of symptoms
associated are completely unnoticeable or significantly reduced.
Although bruising and swelling will significantly subside within
a few weeks, the true result will not be present until many months.
Septoplasty
The nasal septum is the part of the nose that divides nasal cavities.
The septum should be relatively straight and is positioned directly
in the center of the nose. The most common symptom from a badly
deviated (crooked) septum is difficulty breathing through the
nose. A crooked septum can also interfere with the drainage of
the sinuses, resulting in sinus infections. Though few people
actually have a perfectly straight septum, a crooked septum is
usually unnoticeable and doesn't affect breathing.
General
Technique
A septoplasty is a surgical procedure in which the nasal septum
is straightened. Assuming no cosmetic work is being done, the
operation is almost always done through the nose, without any
external incisions. Badly deviated portions of the septum may
be removed entirely, or they may be removed, readjusted, and repositioned
in the nose.
Postoperatively
During the first twenty-four hours after surgery, your face will
feel puffy, your nose may ache, and you may have a mild headache.
Plan on staying in bed with your head elevated for the first twenty-four
hours. In many cases, nasal packing is placed for one to several
days. Bruising of the skin is very rare when a septoplasty is
performed alone.
Related
Options:
Chin Augmentation
Cheek Augmentation
Neck Liposuction
Fat Injections
Nonsurgical
Options:
Collagen
Botox Cosmetic®
Skin Care
More
about Dr. Weikel
Contact Us
Make an Appointment
