This operation is designed to improve the general cosmetic appearance by reducing, recontouring, and/or reshaping the external nose.
There are many irregularities in a normal nose beneath the skin. Some irregularities may persist even after a surgical procedure. It is unnatural for a nose to be exactly perfect. The nostrils of the nose are never exactly the same on each side, nor exactly the same shape. These facts are being pointed out as the patient is more critical of the appearance of his nose following surgery.
Many patients have a fear that the nasal change will be so great as to create a subject of discussion among his family and friends. Psychologically, neither the patient nor the patients friends or relatives really remember the shape of their nose a few weeks following surgery. The patient should be warned that there are individuals who will not wish to acknowledge that the patients appearance is improved and will disappoint the patient by making an unrestrained comment, such as, "I liked your nose better before," or "I didn't see anything wrong with your nose before." Such comments are usually attributable to envious "friends"or relatives.
The cosmetic procedure of reconstructing the nose is one of the most popular operations performed by plastic surgeons today. The patient must accept the judgment of the plastic surgeon as to the type, shape, and contour of the nose as he is better acquainted with facial contour and what will suit the face best. Under no circumstances can the patient "select" a nose. Such a selection by the inexperienced could result in a mismatch for his particular face.
In rare instances, a secondary minor procedure may be done, at your surgeon's suggestion.
The operation is done in the hospital and requires minimal hospitalizations or under certain circumstances, may be performed on an out-patient basis after which the patient returns home. Usually Dr. Sevinor's patient's remain in the hospital overnight.
General anesthesia usually. However this surgery may be performed under local anesthesia, plus sedation and intravenous medication just prior to surgery, to help the patient be completely relaxed and help produce an amnesic state for the surgical procedure. The operation itself should not be painful.
Approximately two hours.
The incisions for reducing or recontouring the external nose are made inside the nose, or sometimes small incisions are made on the rim or the base of the nose. The nasal skin is lifted away from the cartilage and bone and the excess tissue is removed. The cartilage of the tip of the nose may be changed if necessary. Frequently, the nose is shortened to adapt to the new contour. Such surgical procedures are necessary to reform the nose to the desired contour. The nasal bones are usually narrowed. The excessive skin left by the reduction of the underlying bone and cartilage is elastic and readapts itself to the new framework in most instances.
Frequently the patient requesting cosmetic surgery of the nose has another condition which causes difficulty in breathing. The operation for correction of this can be carried out at the same time as the rhinoplasty. (This portion of the operation as well as part of the hospital and operating room fees, may be covered by an existing insurance policy. Discuss this aspect of your surgery with your insurance agent prior to your surgery to avoid any dispute between you and your insurance carrier following the surgery.)
The eyelids may be discolored and swollen for a period of seven to fourteen days, depending upon the type of skin of the patient, age, healing ability and the amount of surgical correction necessary.
Occasionally, the whites of the eyes will be bloodshot and the upper lip may feel "stiff" and unnatural for a varied period of time. Some numbness may be noted over the tip of the nose for several weeks to months.
Immediately after surgery, a restricting splint is placed on the nose and will remain in position for approximately seven days. Ice packs may be placed over the eyes, face and nose for intermittent periods to reduce the swelling and minor discomfort. The patient returns home with suitable medication.
The operative procedure and the postoperative period are not exceedingly painful. Since there will be packing in the nose for several days following the surgery, the patient will breathe through his mouth. This will give the feeling of having a minor cold and may cause drying of the membranes of the mouth. The nose may feel "congested" for several weeks following this surgery due to internal swelling.
The patient is requested to remain within reasonable traveling distance from the surgeon's office for approximately ten days.
Although the major effect of the nasal operation will be noted when the splint is removed, one may expect small changes to occur during a period of twelve months. Do not wear eyeglasses or sunglasses until instructed by your surgeon.
There are risks in every major surgical procedure. Possible risks, and complications will be discussed in detail with you.
THE PATIENT SHOULD NOT ACCEPT ADVICE FROM THOSE WHO ARE NOT DIRECTLY CONCERNED WITH THE OPERATIVE PROCEDURE.
Take all medications EXACTLY as ordered. You may be requested to take some medicines before your surgery. DO NOT TAKE ASPIRIN OR ANY ASPIRIN-CONTAINING COMPOUNDS FOR TWO WEEKS BEFORE OR TWO WEEKS AFTER YOUR SURGERY. Acetaminophen (Tylenol, Valadol, Tempra) may be used in place of Aspirin. AT THE FIRST SIGN OF HIVES OR A RASH, DISCONTINUE ALL MEDICATION AND CALL IMMEDIATELY.
The scars are on the inside of the nose, unless a special operation to narrow the nostrils is done which could cause small scars at the base of the nostrils. There may be a small scar at the base of the nose.
Usual make-up may be utilized.
Coiffure procedures can be carried out approximately one week postoperatively.
Keep nasal splint dry.
Social activities should be limited for approximately two weeks following the surgery. Strenuous exercise, such as gymnastics or body contact sports or swimming should be avoided for eight weeks.
Dr. Sevinor and his staff will discuss financial arrangements prior to surgery.
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