Cosmetic Surgery of the Nose (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty, surgery of the nose, can assist many people with common breathing problems through the nose. Rhinoplasty can be performed on individuals as young as 13 or 14 for girls and 14 or 15 for boys. It is best to have this procedure performed when facial growth is complete.

What to expect from the consultation: During this visit you should expect to sit at length with your doctor and discuss your goals for surgery. It is important to be informative about:

• Past surgeries
• Past and current medical conditions
• Any medications and vitamins you are currently taking
• Any and all supplement you are using
• Allergies to drugs, foods, dyes and rubber

How the surgery is performed: There are many techniques to rhinoplasty and you surgeon will determine the best for you. Some rhinoplasty is performed from within the nose; the incision are made inside the nostrils, this is also called "closed rhinoplasty." Another technique is "open rhinoplasty" where the incisions are made across the columella, the vertical strip of tissue separating the nostrils, as well as within the nose.

What to expect after the surgery: The first week after surgery you should rest your head in an elevated position to help minimize swelling. you may experience stuffiness and bleeding. you will be swollen and bruised, but this will subside. You will also have some packing in, which will be removed by your surgeon. Within the next 10 days after surgery, your swelling should reach its peak and begin to subside. You can apply makeup to conceal any bruising. Some moderate activity can be resumed, but nothing strenuous just yet. Several weeks after the surgery you can resume most of your normal activities.