Rhinoplasty
When you look in the mirror, what do you see? Are you unhappy with what you see? Nasal surgery can enhance your appearance and your self-confidence. With rhinoplasty being one of the top plastic surgery procedures performed in Atlanta, our board certified plastic surgeons at Plastic Surgery Center of the South can help you achieve the aesthetic goal you are looking for.
The external appearance of your nose can be genetic, or can be a result of trauma or other external factors. There are several factors to take into consideration when looking at nasal surgery. Rhinoplasty is surgery to reshape the nose and can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge of your nose, and narrow the width of the nostrils. This procedure may also be reconstructive in nature to improve a birth defect such as cleft lips and palates, nasal injury, or help relieve some breathing problems. We also rebuild or reconstruct the nose that has been destroyed by skin cancer.
Our physicians will evaluate the structure of your nose and face, discuss the factors that influence the procedure and results. These factors include the structure of your nasal bones and cartilage, the shape of your face, the thickness of your skin , your age, and most importantly your expectations. Together you will decide on the most pleasing aesthetic outcome.
About the Procedure
Rhinoplasty surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. The operation may be done under general anesthesia or under local anesthesia with sedation. The surgery can take an hour or two; with more complicated procedures taking longer. Rhinoplasty surgery can be done in a closed manner with all incisions made inside the nose or as an open technique with a small incision across the columella or base of the nose. During the procedure, the underlying framework of the nose, which consists of bone and cartilage, is reshaped and the skin is redraped over the new framework.
Recovering from Rhinoplasty Sugery
After the surgery is complete, a splint is usually applied to help the nose maintain its new shape. Nasal packing may be placed in the nostrils after surgery to stabilize the nose and the septum (which is the dividing wall between the air passages). For the first 24 hours your face will feel puffy, your nose may ache and you may have a dull headache. You will be advised to keep your head elevated when sleeping. You will have bruising and swelling around your eyes, applying cold compresses will reduce the swelling and help make you feel better. A little bleeding is common during the first few days. Your physician will probably ask you not to blow your nose for the first week or so until your tissue is healed. All splints, packing, and sutures are usually removed within a week. Most of your post-operative discomfort can be controlled by medications. You should be able to return to work or school in about a week depending on the level of activity needed for your job. Strenuous activity is avoided for several weeks which includes jogging, swimming, bending or any activity that increases your blood pressure. Avoid hitting or rubbing your nose for several weeks. Be gentle when washing your face and hair and avoid getting your nose sunburned.
The improved appearance of your nose may be subtle or dramatic depending on your pre-operative condition Subtle swelling and firmness to the nose may take several months to completely resolve. Your final result following rhinoplasty surgery may take more than a year to achieve. However, when all is said and done, you will be thrilled with your new look.
Your plastic surgeon will discuss the risks and benefits of rhinoplasty surgery with you prior to the operation. It is important to talk about your expectations and goals of the surgery before the procedure to ensure an optimal outcome. Our board certified plastic surgeons will do a thorough medical examination in our Marietta medical offices and surgical center. Communication is essential for a successful procedure. Our offices are conveniently located outside the Atlanta region. We treat patients from all over the state as well as the country and internationally. Call us today at 770-421-1242 to schedule your consultation.
