Rhinoplasty is a popular type of cosmetic surgery that may be performed for aesthetic reasons or for the purposes of correcting a deviated septum which may be blocking proper breathing.

Purpose

Rhinoplasty, a cosmetic procedure which is commonly known as a ‘nose job’ is a surgical alteration of the nose in order to either change the shape of the nose or improve the function of the nose. While rhinoplasty is at times performed for purely aesthetic purposes, it is also sometimes performed in order to correct breathing problems. Through rhinoplasty, it is possible to increase or decrease the size of the nose itself as well as change the shape or the size of the nose tip, the nostrils or the bridge of the nose.

Preparation

Prior to having rhinoplasty performed, it is important to ensure that all concerns and expectations are fully concerned. Generally, photographs will be taken prior to surgery in order to assist with planning of the procedure. The physician will typically advise the patient to cease taking aspirin or any products that contain aspirin ten days prior to the surgery date. In addition, no liquids or food should be consumed with 6 hours prior to the surgery in order to avoid any complications with anesthesia.

Procedure

On the day of the surgery, the procedure will begin with the application of anesthesia. The way the procedure is handled will depend on whether an endonasal rhinoplasty is utilized or an external approach. When an endonasal rhinoplasty approach is used, there will be no cuts made on the skin and as a result there are no concerns regarding scars. When an external approach is utilized, incisions will be made on the inside of the nose or on the inside of the nose as well as a small incision beneath the tip of the nose. Cuts may also be made into the nasal bones as well as the cartilages in order to provide the cosmetic appearance that is desired.

Once the incisions have been made, the surgeon will then separate the skin from the underlying cartilage and bone in order to sculpt it to the shape that is desired. Once the nose has been reshaped, the skin will be draped over the new framework and the incisions will be closed.

In the event the patient has a deviated septum then a septal surgery, known as a septoplasty, may be performed at the same time as the rhinoplasty. A deviated septum occurs when bone and/or cartilage causes an obstruction in the nose, making it difficult to breathe. In a septoplasty, an incision is made on the inside of the nose in order to remove portions or bone and/or cartilage that are causing the blockage. A fine suture is then used to close the incisions.

Cartilage grafts may be necessary in some instances in order to provide the desired reshaping of the nose. The entire procedure typically requires between one and two hours to complete.

Following the procedure, packs will be placed around the nose in order to control postoperative bleeding. Packing will be removed at a postoperative visit within a few days following the procedure. The patient will require someone to drive them home from the procedure.

Generally, a nasal splint will need to be worn for a week following rhinoplasty. Swelling and some bruising around the eye area are to be expected following surgery. This will generally begin to improve by the third day following the surgery; however, it can last as long as two weeks. Patients should rest at home with their head elevated on pillows. Ice may be utilized to help reduce swelling on the face. Several post-operative visits will be scheduled with the physician in order to check recovery and remove crusts that may form in the nose during the healing process. A saline nasal spray can also be used in order to prevent crusts from forming as well.

Recovery Time

Strenuous activity and straining should be avoided for three to four weeks following the surgery. Patients should also take care not to squeeze the nose or blow the nose for seven to ten days following the procedure. Generally, patients are able to return to social activities within two to three weeks. Patients may resume swimming activities within three weeks, but should not dive for two months following rhinoplasty.

Side Effects

The most common side effect following rhinoplasty is pain. This can typically be controlled with prescription pain medication. Swelling is also common following the procedure. It typically begins to subside within three days and largely receded within two weeks, although minor swelling may remain for as long as six months. Bruising may also accompany the procedure and will be largely concentrated around the eye area. By the tenth day following the procedure, bruising should completely disappear.

Average Cost of Rhinoplasty

The cost of rhinoplasty usually begins at about $4,000 and can go up to about $12,000. The average cost is about $5,500 while the actual cost of a patient’s procedure will depend on the region in which it is performed and whether the patient should need to remain overnight due to any complications that might arise.