Rhinoplasty Nose Surgery

Nose surgery (rhinoplasty) may be performed for cosmetic improvement, repair after trauma, or for various medical, aesthetic, and personal reasons. Ideal candidates include people in good general health, nonsmoking, fit for surgery, and free of medical issues or medications that can lead to unwanted risks or complications.

Following surgery, you can expect swelling, bruising, pain, and discomfort that can be managed with rest and medication. After the surgical remodeling of the nose, incisions are closed, the tape is tightly applied to the skin, and nasal packing may be used. A splint is worn over the nose to protect and maintain the new shape or position. Patients should avoid blowing their noses for up to four weeks. Patients should also avoid wearing reading or sunglasses for four weeks after surgery.

While significant swelling will resolve in the weeks following surgery, mild swelling may continue for several months or up to a full year. Many patients resume a routine within a week or two, but it is essential to protect the nose from injury and avoid strenuous activity for four to six weeks. Initial results will be visible once the splint is removed, but final results may take six to twelve months.

Progress is monitored through follow-up visits with Dr. Rieger, and detailed post-operative instructions and advice will be given.

Although infrequent, some complications associated with rhinoplasty include bleeding, hematoma, infection, problems with anesthesia, unfavorable scarring, perforated septum, or the need for revision. Smoking and certain medical conditions or medication may increase the risk of complications developing.

The surgical technique used will determine the location of the scarring. Incisions may be made within the nose, leaving no visible scars, or between the nostrils under the tip of the nose, leaving a thin scar that should fade nicely with time.

The results of nose surgery are usually lasting, though the nose may change shape slightly as part of the natural aging process.

Many patients who undergo nose surgery return to work within the first week to ten days, though this depends on the patient and the nature of their occupation. Strenuous activity should be avoided for a few weeks.

Generally, glasses should not be worn for approximately four weeks following surgery to avoid putting pressure on the bridge of the nose. Contact lenses may be worn a few days after surgery.

Dr. Rieger will be able to provide you with the best advice for your circumstances.

Osteotomies (fine, controlled fractures in the nasal bone) are unnecessary in every case and will depend upon the nature and degree of the reshaping needed. Patients with asymmetrical or wide nasal bones or prominent, bony humps may sometimes

require more extensive reshaping work. When performed, osteotomies can result in bruising and swelling, which typically resolves in approximately three weeks.

In some cases, rhinoplasty can affect breathing, either temporarily or permanently. This depends on the extent of the surgery and the specific changes made to the nose. For example, breathing may be improved if the septum (the wall inside the nose that separates the nostrils) is corrected during the procedure. However, if the internal structures of the nose are altered significantly, it could temporarily affect breathing. Your surgeon will discuss the potential risks and benefits of the procedure with you beforehand and can help you understand how it may affect your breathing.

After a rhinoplasty, the nose may be more susceptible to injury for a period of time as it heals. This is because the bones and tissues of the nose are more fragile while they heal. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to protect your nose during the healing process and may advise you to avoid activities that could cause injury to your nose.

The length of a rhinoplasty procedure can vary, but it typically takes 1 to 3 hours to complete. The exact duration of the procedure will depend on the complexity of the changes being made to the nose and the individual patient.

As with any surgery, rhinoplasty can cause some discomfort and pain. The pain level experienced after the procedure varies from person to person and can depend on several factors, such as the extent of the surgery, the individual's pain tolerance, and the use of pain management techniques during and after the procedure. Most people report experiencing mild to moderate pain and discomfort for the first few days after the surgery, which can be managed with pain medication prescribed by the surgeon.