Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures performed in Newport Beach. Nose surgery can enhance the shape, size, and general appearance of your nose. It can create a natural-looking nose that achieves a harmonious balance with your other facial features.
A rhinoplasty may be performed as a reconstructive procedure to correct a birth defect, a repair surgery to remedy an injury like a broken nose, or simply for cosmetic reasons. Sometimes the procedure is performed in conjunction with endoscopic sinus surgery for patients with ongoing sinusitis or with a septoplasty, a procedure to correct a deviated septum. In these cases, the operation effectively treats health and breathing problems, as well as improving the patient’s appearance.
What are the benefits of a Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty has several specific goals. Some facilitate breathing as well as improve facial appearance. During a rhinoplasty, Newport Beach plastic surgeon Dr Ip may make your appearance more pleasing to you by:
- Removing a hump on your nose
- Modifying the bridge of your nose
- Reshaping the tip of your nose
- Reshaping or resizing your nostrils
- Repairing your nose after an injury
- Increasing or decreasing the size of your nose
Are you a good candidate for nose surgery?
In order to be a candidate for a rhinoplasty procedure you must meet the following criteria:
- Be at least 13 years old so that facial growth is complete
- Be in overall good health
- Not be a smoker
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery
How is Rhinoplasty performed?
Rhinoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia. It usually takes from 1 to 2 hours to complete. Dr. Ip will use one of two techniques when performing your nose surgery. In a closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made within the nostrils. In an open rhinoplasty, the incision is made across the columella, the tissue between the nostrils.
To view more of Dr. Ip’s rhinoplasty cases, click here to view our photo gallery.
What is the recovery from a Rhinoplasty like?
Immediately after surgery, your nose and eyes are usually bruised and swollen. Splints and some packing material will remain inside your nose for a few days. During this period, you may experience some nasal pain or a dull headache, as well as some bleeding and drainage from your nose. Most patients are comfortable enough to return to regular activities in about a week. Contact lenses can be worn immediately after the procedure, but glasses may need to be taped to your forehead or propped on your cheeks for up to seven weeks.
Are there any restrictions in the weeks following a Rhinoplasty?
While you will be able to resume normal activities about a week after surgery, you will have to protect your nose while it heals by observing the following directives during the post-operative period:
- Avoid strenuous activities
- Take baths instead of showers
- Avoid blowing your nose
- Avoid making exaggerated facial expressions
- Brush your teeth gently
- Avoid pulling clothing over your head
- Use sunscreen of SPF 30 or higher
- Limit dietary sodium
- Do not use ice packs
Are most patients pleased with the results of a Rhinoplasty?
Patients with realistic goals for rhinoplasty are generally very happy with the new shape of their nose. The exact results depend on your nasal bone and cartilage structure, your facial shape, the thickness of your skin and your age. While you will look and feel fine within a week or two, you may have minimal swelling for as long as a year after the rhinoplasty procedure. Although your appearance may not be absolutely optimal until a year has passed, you will more than likely be extremely pleased with the results of your nose surgery soon after the procedure.
What are the possible risks of Rhinoplasty?
Complications arising from a rhinoplasty are rare and, when they do occur, usually minor. These may include infection, nosebleed, or a reaction to the anesthesia. Some few patients may experience recurring nosebleed or numbness in or around the nose. On rare occasions, the nasal septum may be perforated, but this can be repaired. In general, a rhinoplasty is considered a very safe surgical procedure.
