Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
This webpage will give you information about a rhinoplasty.
If you have any questions, you should ask your GP or other relevant
health professional.
What is a rhinoplasty?
A rhinoplasty (or ‘nose job’) is a cosmetic operation to improve
the appearance of your nose. It involves operating on the bones and
cartilage that give your nose its shape and structure (see figure
1).
Figure 1 - The bones and cartilage that shape the nose
Sometimes a rhinoplasty is performed to improve how you breathe
through your nose.
What are the benefits of a rhinoplasty?
If the operation is successful, your nose will be the size and
shape you want. This can boost your self-confidence.
Are there any alternatives to a rhinoplasty?
If you have a blocked nose caused by a deviated (bent) septum,
which is the bone and cartilage between your nostrils, you may be
able to have a septoplasty or submucous resection. A rhinoplasty is
the only way to change the appearance of your nose.
If you have a blocked nose because your nasal bones are crooked
or damaged, a rhinoplasty (usually along with a septoplasty or
submucous resection) is the only option to improve the way you
breathe.
What does the operation involve?
A rhinoplasty is usually performed under a general
anaesthetic.
Your surgeon can refine the tip of your nose by reducing the
cartilage. If you have a hump (dorsum) on your nose, they will
shave it down. Your surgeon can also straighten and narrow the
nasal bones by breaking and then setting them (infracture). Your
surgeon may need to rebuild part of your nose.
What complications can happen?
1 General complications of any operation
- Pain
- Bleeding
- Infection in the surgical wound
- Blood clots
2 Specific complications of this operation
- Bruising and swelling
- Bleeding caused by infection
- Redness
- Unsightly scarring
- Injury to nerves
- Cosmetic problems
- Nasal obstruction
- Graft rejection
How soon will I recover?
If you had some packing in your nose, it will usually be removed
on the morning after your operation. Once this has been removed you
will be able to go home.
You will need to stay off work and away from groups of people
for two weeks to avoid catching a cold, which could result in an
infection. You should also avoid any exercise, hot baths and
bending down. Most swelling and bruising will usually have settled
after the third week.
It can take many months for your nose to settle down and for the
final appearance to develop.
Summary
A rhinoplasty is a cosmetic operation to improve the appearance
of your nose. You should have realistic expectations about the
results.
Acknowledgements
Author: Miss Ruth Capper MD FRCS (ORL-HNS) and Mr Eoin O’ Broin
MD FRCS (Plast)
Illustrations: Mr Eoin O’ Broin MD FRCS (Plast)
This document is intended for information purposes only and
should not replace advice that your relevant health professional
would give you.
Copyright © 2008 EIDO Healthcare Limited
The operation and treatment information on
this website is produced by EIDO Healthcare Ltd and is licensed
by Ramsay Health Care UK.
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information belong exclusively to EIDO Healthcare Limited.
You may not copy, print out, download or
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The information should not replace advice that
your relevant health professional would give you.