Nose Surgery

Rhinoplasty or nose job is one of the most commonly performed facial cosmetic procedures and is required as a result of a patient feeling self conscious about his or her facial appearance or profile.

The ultimate objective of a Rhinoplasty is to create a size, shape and profile which is in proportion to the rest of the individual’s facial features. Nose surgery can be used to increase or decrease the size of the nose or change the shape or size of the tip or the span of the nostrils. It can also be used to help relieve obstructive breathing problems or correct post traumatic deformities. Usually the incisions made to allow reshaping are hidden inside the nose. Sometimes a small, inconspicuous scar running on the base of the central column of the nose (the columella) maybe needed.

A Rhinoplasty can help men and women of different ages but is usually carried out on individuals over the age of 16 once the structure of the nose is fully formed. Depending on the complexity and extent of nasal reshaping required, surgery usually takes between one to two hours and is normally performed under general anaesthetic. An overnight stay in hospital is sometimes necessary. However, occasionally local anaesthesia with sedation is possible and patients can be treated as a day case. Often a protective splint is worn for about a week after nose surgery, especially if manipulation of the nasal bones was required during surgery.

Your consultants will give impartial advice and have a thorough discussion with you on the nature of the surgery, your suitability for it and the type of approach and procedure that can produce the optimum result in your case. You will be fully informed about the implications of having this operation including the limitations of the technique, the position of the scars and any possible short-term or long-term complications. The final decision to have surgery is your own personal choice.