Of all plastic surgery procedures, nose enhancement (or Rhinoplasty) is among the most common. Rhinoplasty can be performed on any part of the nose, to increase or reduce its size, to modify the size and shape of the nostrils, tip, nasal bridge or to alter the slope or length. Rhinoplasty may also be performed to correct an injury, birth defect, or to improve breathing. Rhinoplasty is usually performed under local or general anesthesia in an outpatient setting. In most procedures, incisions are made inside the nose and the bone and cartilage framework are then cut and shaped to the desired contour. Depending on the problem, an Open Rhinoplasty may be required which involves lifting the skin off the tip of the nose allowing for better exposure and more precise shaping of the nasal tip.

After the procedure, a splint is applied to help the nose maintain its new form. In some cases, nasal packing or soft splints may be inserted in the nostrils to provide additional stability.

Following surgery, bruising, swelling and discomfort can be expected, but these can be alleviated with cold compresses and pain medication. The most visible swelling and bruising are usually gone within two weeks. Splints, stitches and packing are removed in approximately one week and the patient can usually return to work or non-strenuous activities within a week or two. Exercise can be resumed in one month and participation in sports resumed after two months.

My consultations for Rhinoplasty are complimentary and include both computer imaging and a review of cases performed on patients with similar problems.

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