Overview
Rhinoplasty reshapes the bone, cartilage and soft tissue of the nose to improve balance with the eyes, lips and chin. Planning begins with a structural assessment of the nasal framework and the airway, because form and function are inseparable. The goal is never a template nose, but a nose that looks as though it always belonged to your face.
Who it suits
- A dorsal hump, drooping tip, or asymmetry that bothers you
- Difficulty breathing through one or both nostrils
- Previous rhinoplasty with an unsatisfactory outcome
- Full facial growth completed and stable general health
The procedure
Performed under general anaesthesia, usually 2 to 3 hours. Incisions are placed inside the nostrils (closed) or with a small columellar incision (open) depending on the complexity of the work. Cartilage grafting is often used to support the tip and the airway over the long term.
Recovery
Light splint in place, swelling and bruising around the eyes peak then fade.
Splint removed. Most patients return to desk work and social activity.
Gradual return to exercise. No contact sport.
Fine tip definition continues to refine as residual swelling resolves.
Results
The majority of the visible change is present within six weeks; final definition of the tip settles over the first year.
Questions
Will my breathing improve?
Where the airway is narrowed, functional correction is planned in the same operation.
Is packing used?
Rarely. Soft internal splints are more common and far more comfortable.