Mr Nigam ENT Treatments - Rhinoplasty - Cosmetic Nasal Surgery
Cosmetic rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to reshape the nose. The goal of the procedure is to provide a nose with a pleasing esthetic or cosmetic appearance while maintaining or improving nasal function. In most septorhinoplasties the bone and cartilage of the nose is gradually reduced to provide a nasal shape and form that is appropriate for the patient's other facial features.
For example, if the patient has a large bump or hump on the bridge of the nose this is reduced to provide a better side profile. If the tip of the nose is too large then the nasal tip cartilages are sculpted to reduce the overall size of the nasal tip and also to provide a more triangular appearance to the base of the nose.
In almost all cases attention is also needed to be directed to the nasal septum to correct a septal spur or deviation as well as treatment of the inferior turbinates if required because of nasal blockage.
Investigations
In your preoperative consultation with Mr Nigam, he will carefully examine your nose and describe for you the abnormality as he perceives it. In some cases a detailed endoscopic examination is also performed so that you better understand the abnormality within the nasal cavity.
Treatment
Rhinoplasty can be performed in many instances using a intranasal approach in which all the incisions are placed inside the nose. This generally leads to less postoperative swelling and a more rapid convalescent or healing period.
In approximately 1/3 of cases due to a severe cosmetic abnormality or a history of previous surgery it is necessary to use an external or open approach in which a small incision is made in the area of skin separating the nostrils.
If this approach is used, the sutures will be removed approximately five to seven days following surgery and the scar should be barely visible at a period of six weeks to three months.
Prognosis
In order to prevent postoperative bleeding the nose is sometimes gently packed with sponge packing resembling small tampons. The function of the sponge packing is to absorb secretions immediately following surgery. Most patients will experience a certain degree of postoperative bruising on the face and in most cases are able to return to normal physical and social activities within ten to fourteen days.
The vast majority of healing will occur within the first six weeks however subtle changes to the nasal tip and bridge of the nose will continue for a period of up to six months to one year.
Most people expect rhinoplasty to be a painful operation, yet, in most instances this is not true. Most patients experience nasal congestion similar to a head cold and will require a minimal amount of postoperative pain medication for the first three to four days.
Follow up care is vital for this procedure to monitor healing and it is important you are seen at regular intervals for the first year.