Nose (Rhinoplasty)
This cosmetic procedure is designed to change the shape of the bridge and tip of the nose. Rhinoplasty doesn't affect the ability to breathe through the nose; however, some forms of reconstruction (septoplasty) to correct breathing can be done at the same time. More than half of all facial cosmetic procedures are performed on the nose and the popularity of rhinoplasty is increasing. Since 1980, the annual number of cosmetic nasal surgeries has tripled. Close to 100,000 rhinoplasties are now being performed each year and 25% of these patients are men.
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Procedure
Patients are asleep (see Anesthesia for more details) during this 1.5 to 2 hour procedure. After the nose is locally anesthetized, internal incisions are made to allow exposure of the tip cartilage and bridge. Appropriate changes are made to improve symmetry, projection, width and tip refinement as well as length and width of the nose. After incisions are closed with an absorbable dissolving suture, a small amount of packing (1.5 inch long piece of gauze) is placed in each nostril and an adhesive splint or cast is placed over the bridge of the nose. Patients are then awakened and taken to recovery for 30 to 60 minutes.
Recovery
On arriving home, you may begin eating normally. Ice packs are recommended if eyelid puffiness or bruising is noted. Patients sleep at home with their head slightly elevated for several days. There is usually minor discomfort. Patients remove the nasal packing the next day. Nasal stuffiness persists for several days to weeks. The splint is removed in the office five to seven days later. Bruising lasts one to two weeks. Patients resume moderate exercise after ten days and can shower normally and put makeup on at one week. Slight to moderate swelling lasts weeks to months. Post-operative photos are taken between three to six months.
Patient Testimonial
I was the girl who always positioned myself directly in front of you versus to your right or left. I was the girl who would never let anyone take a picture of my profile. And I was the girl who would never, ever, feel confident enough to believe I was a beautiful person. Until I met Dr. Robinson.
