Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure. Once the assessment is complete and a surgery has been chosen, the procedure will begin. Knowing what to expect can help reduce any anxiety that you may feel when entering the operating room. This page will provide you with a thorough explanation of the surgery that you’re about to have – more info?
Anesthesia
Once you have prepared, you will be seated and given anesthesia in the operating theatre. Your doctor has already decided on the best anesthetic. Options include general anesthesia or intravenous sedation.
Monitoring Your Vitals
The surgeon will monitor your vitals during the procedure in order to keep you safe.
Making the Incision
According to the type of surgery you choose, it will be either an open or closed procedure. The surgeon will perform a closed surgery by making a hidden incision in the interior of your nose. The surgeon will make an incision on the columella (the tissue that separates the nose).
Reshaping
This is when the surgeon begins to reshape your nose. This may include adding cartilage from different parts of the body to the nose or reducing tissue.
Deviated Septum
After the surgeon has corrected the nasal structure, he will fix any issues with the septum.
Closing Incision
The surgeon will then close the incision after completing the nasal corrections. If the nose needs to be corrected, the surgeon will cut along the natural creases.
Recovery
In order to support the healing process, you may have tubes or splints inserted into your nasal cavity. You will be taken to a recovery room where you will receive monitoring for a few minutes. After surgery, most patients are able leave within a couple of hours. However, in rare cases, they may stay overnight.
After Surgery
Be realistic in your expectations. The nose may take a year or more to fully settle and develop the shape that it will maintain for the rest of the person’s life. It is normal to experience some discomfort. Take care of yourself and you will heal faster.
Rhinoplasty will change the way that you interact with others, especially when your appearance makes you feel self-conscious. By learning as much about this procedure, you can make the process go smoothly and with minimal stress.