Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping Surgery)

What is a RHINOPLASTY?
Rhinoplasty is an operation designed to re-shape the nose. The most common requests are to reduce the size of the nose, change the shape of the tip, reduce a hump or change the angle between the nose and the upper lip. What can and should be done in your case will depend on your individual wishes and the anatomy of your nose. 

Rhinoplasty, or corrective nose surgery, is usually performed under general anaesthesia and often does not require an overnight stay. To change the shape of the nose, the underlying bone and cartilage need to be adjusted. The procedure usually involves, to greater or lesser degrees, reducing a hump on the bridge of the nose, controlled fracture of the side walls of the nose and refining the tip of the nose. Most of the scars will be within the nose, but in some cases there can also be a very thin scar across the columella (the bridge of skin between the nostrils, hidden under the tip).              

What is a TIP RHINOPLASTY?
Tip Rhinoplasty is surgery to refine just the tip of the nose. It is appropriate for patients who require no surgery to the bony bridge. It can be performed under intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia and often does not require an overnight stay. Most of the scars will be within the nose, but in some cases there can also be a very thin scar across the columella (the bridge of skin between the nostrils, hidden under the tip). Because there is no surgery to the bony bridge, the procedure is less traumatic than a full Rhinoplasty.

Is it right for me?
The best candidates for Rhinoplasty are looking for improvement, not perfection. Rhinoplasty can change your appearance moving it closer to your ideal and so improve your self-confidence. However it cannot change your looks completely. The surgery aims to improve the shape and contour of the nose, giving better balance to your face.

What are the risks and long term implications?
Complications are RARE, but you should be aware of them so that you can make an informed decision.

Every operation carries with it the risk of bleeding, infection and delayed healing, but these are uncommon following rhinoplasty. Other complications include an unsatisfactory cosmetic result, irregularities on the nose that you can see or feel, as well as asymmetry. There may be narrowing of your air passages, obstructing your breathing. You may snore, where you did not do so before the operation.

As mentioned above, the scars heal very well in most patients, but please be aware that if you have dark skin, freckly skin or red hair, there is a greater risk of the scars being more prominent.

What should I expect following surgery?
At the end of the operation, there will be packs placed inside the nostrils and a small gauze pad under the nose to catch any drops of blood. The packs are usually removed after 24 hours. The nose will also be taped and a splint placed over the bridge. These will be removed at 5 days. Any stitches in the columella will also be removed at this time, but stitches inside the nostrils will be left to dissolve. You should avoid getting your nose wet until the splint and columella stitches have been removed.

Bruising and swelling usually resolves by 10-14 days and most patients are able to go out in public at this time. However, you should be aware that it can sometimes take several months for the last little bit of swelling to go away.

You will be prescribed oral painkillers, which will be sufficient in controlling any discomfort. Your nose will feel blocked, like a heavy cold, for 10-14 days. It is important you do not blow your nose during this time and instead clean it gently with some cotton buds while you’re in the shower. Finally, you should avoid driving until you are confident you can perform all necessary manoeuvres safely.

Our practice nurse will keep in close contact with you whilst you recover at home. Generally, you will be seen in the clinic at 5-7 days for removal of stitches and splint, and thereafter at one month postoperatively. However, if there are any problems or concerns, you will be seen more frequently than this or as often as you wish. In the longer term, you are welcome to see Mr Ng for a check up at any time. All follow up appointments are free of charge whether they be at 2 months or 2 years post operatively.