Nasal reconstruction, also known as rhinoplasty or nose job, is a surgical procedure done to change the shape, size, and appearance of a person’s nose. The surgeon can change the skin, inner lining, the upper part of the nose’s structure, or the cartilaginous framework. Read on to know the commonly asked queries about nasal reconstruction.
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Why do people have rhinoplasty?
Different people undergo nasal reconstruction for various reasons. For example, some want to change the proportions or appearance of their nose. Others undergo the procedure to correct a birth defect or repair a traumatic nasal deformity.
Additionally, removing cancers that appear on the nose often causes a deformity that requires reconstruction. This surgery also helps to address some breathing difficulties.
What happens during the procedure?
Plastic surgeons perform rhinoplasty by reshaping the bone and cartilage under the nose’s skin. Afterwards, they re-drape the skin over the new structure to give the nose a better appearance.
The surgeon also applies a small plastic splint on the outside section of the nose to reduce swelling and maintain the new shape during the recovery. The specialist may perform a skin graft if the wound is large and requires additional tissue for smooth healing.
Who can get a nasal reconstruction?
During a consultation, the plastic surgeon conducts a physical examination and evaluates their medical history to determine if they are eligible for the procedure. They will also discuss your expectations to see if they are achievable.
A good rhinoplasty candidate is physically healthy and does not smoke. Additionally, their face has completed growing. The person should also be realistic about the desired results.
What is the best age for nasal reconstruction?
The best age to refine your nose’s appearance for cosmetic reasons is 18 years. At this time, your face has finished growing.
How long does nasal reconstructive surgery take?
The length of a nose job depends on the severity of the defect or deformity and the steps required to correct it. Some surgeries take about 45 minutes, while others take hours. If a nasal deformity requires several operations, the surgeon stages the procedures several months apart. This is because these surgeries involve cartilage grafting or tissue transfer and remodeling to achieve the desired result.
What should I expect after the surgery?
Whatever happens afterwards depends on the complexity of the procedure. However, you should expect some bruising, swelling, and discomfort. The surgeon will give you instructions and details about the after-care. For example, you should take high-fibre foods to prevent constipation and strain. You should also control your smiling and laughing to avoid pain.
Is it possible to undergo nasal reconstruction surgery and not have the unnatural or “operated” look?
Yes, it is possible. The goal of an experienced cosmetic surgeon is to ensure that the patient appears as natural as possible after the procedure. The results should also be better than the pre-operative appearance.
The specialist should carefully shape different elements and blend them to bring them in harmony with the nose and entire face. Ensure that you see the “before” and “after” photos of the plastic surgeon’s previous work.
What type of anaesthesia is used for nasal reconstruction?
Most surgeons perform rhinoplasty procedures under general anaesthesia, whereby the patient is usually asleep during the surgery. However, the specialist can also administer heavy sedation during complex procedures.
Does Nasal Reconstruction have any risks?
Like other surgeries, nasal reconstruction carries several risks. These include nose bleeding, scarring, infection, swelling, difficulty breathing, nerve damage, residual nasal deformity, and septal perforation.
Some patients react to the anaesthesia or develop permanent numbness around the nose. You might also need to undergo additional surgery, especially if the grafter tissues fail to adjust effectively to the nasal site or if the results are unsatisfactory.
How soon after the nasal reconstruction can I return to work or the gym?
This depends on the healing process and the nature of your job. For example, you can return to work after a week or two if your job involves less physical activity or if you are comfortable with people seeing you with bruises on your nose.
On the contrary, you return after at least two weeks if your job is physically demanding. People in appearance-based jobs, such as acting and modelling, should return to work after about three months.
Everybody’s healing journey is different. Some patients resume their normal workout activities the first or second week after the procedure. You can wait for three weeks if you are not confident enough about your healing process. Either way, ensure that you only engage in activities that your body can comfortably handle.
What is recovery like?
The rhinoplasty healing process depends on the severity of the defect and techniques used during the surgery. You should note that the healing process is gradual. Most patients indicate that the recovery is uneventful, but others experience nausea or pain.
It is normal for your nose to feel stuffy and uncomfortable. Moreover, the swelling and incisions disappear several weeks after the procedure. It might take months or a year to notice some subtle changes.
Do nasal reconstruction patients need maintenance procedures?
No. This procedure does not need touchups. You only need to take care of your nose and face to ensure smooth healing.
How should one prepare for the surgery?
During pre-operative visits, the surgeon will instruct you on what to do before and after the surgical procedure. For example, patients are advised to avoid eating or drinking anything before the procedure. Additionally, they should not wear makeup on that day.
Will I stay at the hospital after the surgery?
After the procedure, the surgery team monitors the patient in the post-anaesthesia recovery area until he or she feels well and stable enough to go home. Rhinoplasty is often an outpatient procedure, and most patients do not need an overnight stay at the hospital.
Will my Insurance cover the Procedure?
Insurance companies do not cover cosmetic procedures. However, the company might partly or entirely compensate you if the surgery aims to improve nasal function or correct a traumatic nasal deformity.