Rhinoplasty

ELIGIBILITY

Rhinoplasty can be done in any person whose nasal bone is fully grown. Although anyone with good health and without any active disease is considered a suitable candidate for cosmetic rhinoplasty, the final decision will be taken by the doctor. 

The following factors are taken into consideration to check if the person is eligible for rhinoplasty:

• Complete facial growth
• Non-smokers
• Realistic expectations from the surgery

PREPARATION BEFORE PROCEDURE

During this period, the surgeon will discuss the procedure, its benefits, and risks. The surgeon will ask you about your medical and medication history. A physical examination and laboratory tests are done to determine your fitness for undergoing surgery. A few photographs of the nose from different angles are taken, which are used as a reference during and after surgery for comparing the result.

Once the surgery is scheduled, you need to follow certain tips, which help in attaining better outcomes:

• Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, or any other medicines that increase the risk of bleeding during and after the surgery
• Consult your doctor before using any OTC medications
• Stop smoking, as it slows down the process of recovery 
• Inform your doctor about your current medications, vitamins, and mineral supplements 

PROCEDURE TYPE

Rhinoplasty is of two types. They are:

• Open rhinoplasty: In this procedure, the surgeon will make an incision on the columella (a narrow strip of fleshy tissue that forms the base of the nasal septum) and reconstruct the underlying bone or cartilage. 
• Closed rhinoplasty: In this procedure, incisions are made inside the nose to restructure the bone or cartilage. 

ABOUT PROCEDURE

Rhinoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia. A local anesthetic causes numbness in the area of surgery, and a general anesthetic causes unconsciousness. Now, the surgeon will make an incision either on the columella or across the base of the nose. The surgeon then gently pulls the skin from the cartilage or nasal bone and start reshaping it. 

Nasal bone or cartilage can be reshaped in several ways. The surgeon may either remove tissue or add an extra bone to produce a perfect look. The extra bone is obtained either from ears, nose or from the ribs (rarely). Once the changes are done, the skin is re-draped on the nose, and the incisions are stitched. 

POST-PROCEDURE CARE

After the procedure, you will be in a recovery room for a few hours. The nurse will monitor your vitals, and depending on the condition, you will be discharged a few hours later. 

A nasal splint is placed inside the nose for protection and support for at least one week. Swelling and pain in the face, especially around the nose and eyes are common for a few weeks, which can be managed by taking the prescribed medicines. Additionally, you may also notice slight bleeding and mucus drainage from the surgical site. 

A few weeks later, the surgeon will remove the dressing.  It takes at least one year to see a fully refined nasal contour. 

RECOVERY TIPS

The doctor will give the following instructions for quick recovery:

• Avoid doing strenuous exercises, such as aerobics, running, or jogging for at least three to six weeks
• Keep the bandage dry and clean
• Take the prescribed medicines regularly
• Limit laughing, smiling, or any other expression that may stretch the incision 
• Limit the movement of the upper lip
• Brush the teeth gently
• Avoid pulling the clothes over the head 

FACTORS AFFECTING COST

India provides the best cosmetic rhinoplasty at an affordable price. The cost of a rhinoplasty is much lower in India than in other countries.