Feeling unhappy about a facial feature can be a huge blow to someone’s self-confidence. This is particularly true for people who feel embarrassed by their nose, as noses are our most central feature and are near impossible to hide.
Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a ‘nose job,’ is the most common form of surgical procedure among both men and women. This type of surgery helps to restore body confidence by giving patients a nose that is more proportionate to their other facial features.
Nose surgery can significantly boost self-esteem, whether you want to:
- Feel confident in social situations
- Not hide every time someone gets their camera out
- Correct a misshapen nose after an accident or deformity
- Ease any breathing troubles
Nose surgery involves relocating, removing or reshaping nose bone and cartilage to create a more desirable shape. In the majority of cases, the size of the nose is reduced, however some patients undergo surgery to increase the size of their nose.
The end result is a nose that blends seamlessly with other facial features, which in turn helps patients to feel more self-confident in their appearance.
What can I expect to gain from having nose surgery?
So long as you are realistic with what can be achieved through nose surgery, then you will be extremely pleased with the results. People undergo the procedure for many different reasons; they may want to alter the bridge in their nose, reduce the size of their nostrils, or enhance the overall profile of their nose. A consultation with your surgeon will allow you to identify exactly what you desire from having nose surgery.
What does the procedure entail?
After an incision is made inside the nose, your surgeon will separate soft tissues from the underlying bone structure. Once they have done this, they are able to move and reshape the nose. For patients requiring an improved nose profile, extra cartilage may be taken from other areas of the body.
Once your surgeon has created the desired shape, they will then replace the skin and tissue back over the structure. If you are having your nostrils reduced in size, then your surgeon will make incisions in the side of your nostrils, between your nose and cheek.
You will be administered general anaesthetic for the procedure and will usually be required to stay in hospital for one night.
Will it take long for me to recover?
After surgery, you will need to wear a small plaster dressing, called a splint, for approximately 7 days. This splint protects and supports the bones in your nose as they settle in their new location. It generally takes around 10 days to 2 weeks for the swelling and bruising to reduce. Once you have had your splint removed, a cold compress can help to further reduce any swelling.
The majority of patients feel well enough to return to work after one week. You will only be able to see the true outcome of your surgery once your nose is fully healed, which could take anywhere up to 6 months.
Will there be any scarring?
There should be no external scarring from your surgery, unless you have had your nostrils resized and this case, the scars will fade eventually. For a while after your procedure you may experience ‘black eyes’ and your face may be quite swollen. To help you recover as quickly as possible, you must avoid direct contact and putting any pressure on your nose.
Does the procedure hurt?
You won’t feel a thing during the procedure as it is performed under general anaesthetic. You may feel a little sore for some time after the surgery, though you will be prescribed medication to help with pain relief. Generally speaking, patients are always surprised at how little pain they feel following their surgery.