CANDIDATES FOR RHINOPLASTY
Good candidates for rhinoplasty have finished their facial growth. Girls should typically be at least 15 or 16 years old; boys should be at least 17 or 18. Patients considering rhinoplasty should be in overall good health and not smoke. It is important that candidates have realistic expectations about what rhinoplasty can do.
RHINOPLASTY RESULTS
Rhinoplasty surgery can and should address every problem part of the nose to achieve the best appearance and function. Some of the common changes that are made with rhinoplasty include:
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THE RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE
Rhinoplasty is usually performed in an operating room under general anesthesia to ensure the patient is safe and comfortable. The procedure can last a few hours but most patients go home the same day. To modify the shape of the nose, the underlying structure of cartilage and bone is usually accessed through small incisions inside the nostrils and just beneath the tip. The nasal structure is then meticulously reshaped to achieve the desired results. Oftentimes the nasal septum or nasal turbinates will be addressed to improve nasal breathing. A splint or cast is often placed on the outside of the nose. There is usually some drainage from the nose for a few days after surgery. Discomfort is generally mild and can be treated with oral pain medication.
RECOVERY FROM RHINOPLASTY
Most patients go home on the same day of the surgery. There is usually some drainage from the nose for a few days after surgery. Discomfort is generally mild and can be treated with oral pain medication. Bruising or swelling of the nose, cheeks, eyes, and upper lip can occur but are temporary. Most patients return to work in about a week. Nasal shape and swelling continue to improve over time. About 80% of the nasal swelling goes away in the first two months and a small amount can last up to 1 year.