Information About Rhinoplasty

RHINOPLASTY (NOSE RESHAPING)

Rhinoplasty is the name for surgical reshaping of the nose. It can be done to either reduce or increase the size of the nose or to change the shape of the nose. It may also be used to create birth defects and to correct breathing problems.

PLANNING YOUR SURGERY

It is important to communicate your expectations to the surgeon during your initial consultation. The surgeon will examine your nose and offer a treatment plan. The surgeon has to work within the anatomy that is available. Expectations must be realistic and your surgeon will help you to understand what is possible and what is not possible. Dr. Farnworth uses computer imaging to help patients understand what changes in the shape of the nose might look like. A photograph is taken and Dr. Farnworth is able to manipulate the photograph on the computer to help you understand the possible effects of surgery.

BEFORE YOUR SURGERY

It is important to avoid any medications which may cause prolonged bleeding such as aspirin, Motrin, Advil or Ibuprofen. There are many herbs which also should be avoided prior to surgery. These include Ginseng, Ephedra, Feverfew, Kava-Kava, Ginkgo, St. John’s Wort, licorice, Echinacea and ginger. These supplements are known to either cause prolonged bleeding or cause problems with general anesthesia.

WHERE YOUR SURGERY WILL BE PERFORMED

Rhinoplasty is usually performed in an outpatient surgery center or a hospital. Dr. Farnworth likes to perform the operation under general anesthesia and there is absolutely no discomfort during the procedure.

THE RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE

The operation usually takes approximately two hours depending on the amount of work to be done. The surgeon will recommend either an incision inside the nose or a small scar across the front of the columella (the skin in between the two nostrils). Occasionally nasal packing may be left in the nose making it necessary to breathe through your mouth at the end of the operation. Surgical tape and splints may be used postoperatively on the nose as well. Your surgeon may prescribe antibiotics if packing is kept in the nose. The packing is usually removed after approximately 4-5 days.

POSTOPERATIVE CARE

Your nose will feel swollen and it may be difficult to breathe through your nose postoperatively. You may experience a dull headache. Most of the pain is controlled with oral pain medication. It is recommended that you relax and keep your head elevated for the first two days. Cold compresses can be used to help control the swelling. A little bleeding is common during the first few days following surgery. It is important to avoid blowing the nose and also to avoid bending over or heavy lifting. If you have a significant amount of bleeding, contact the surgeon immediately.

THE HEALING PROCESS

Most patients are able to return to work or school after approximately one week. After four weeks, you will be permitted to exercise and blow your nose normally. It is recommended that you avoid contact sports for approximately three months following rhinoplasty surgery.