If your nose does not match your face, there is only so much you can achieve with clever use of make-up.
Nose surgery — called rhinoplasty — can change the size of your nose, alter its shape, or even change its angle. Rhinoplasty can also be used to bring relief to some breathing problems, repair an injury or correct a birth defect.
A plastic surgeon who specialises in rhinoplasty will be able to assess the proportions of your face and tailor a procedure that is best suited to you.
Is it for me?
Nose surgery is very much an individualised procedure, and the outcome will be different for everyone. That is why before you make any decisions you will have a consultation with a surgeon to discuss your needs and goals for the surgery.
During this consultation, the surgeon will evaluate your general health as well as your face, including the skin, muscle, fat, and underlying bone. He will explain the factors that can influence the outcome of your surgery, and photographs will be taken for your medical record.
How is it done?
Nose surgery is performed under a general anaesthetic, or local anaesthetic with sedation. The choice is up to you and your surgeon.
Either an open or closed surgical technique will be used, depending on the extent of your surgery. Either procedure leaves minimal or no scarring on the outside of the nose because incisions are made from inside.
During surgery, the skin of your nose is separated from its supporting framework of bone and cartilage, which is then sculpted to the desired shape. Post-operatively, a splint is placed over the bridge of your nose. If your septum — the cartilage between your nostrils — was adjusted you will also have packing inside your nose.
When can I go home?
You may go home on the day of your surgery, or choose to stay in hospital overnight. When you get home you should rest in bed with your head elevated for the first day, and then limit your movements to around the house for the next two or three days. Moving about too much may cause bleeding, and will also increase your pain.
In the first 24 hours after surgery your face will feel puffy, your nose may ache and you may have a dull headache. Cold packs can help relieve the discomfort.
When you are discharged you will most likely be given a prescription for pain medication, which will minimise your discomfort. You should take only the pain medication prescribed, and eat before you take it or it might upset your stomach.
Eat lightly for the first few days after surgery and then resume your normal diet. Make sure you get plenty of fluids.
Will I have to return for post-operative care?
You will return to the surgeon's office within the first week after surgery. During your first visit he will remove any packing you may have, remove the splint from your nose and re-tape the top of the nose and probably remove your sutures.
You will have follow-up visits on a regular basis over the next year to ensure the desired result is maintained.
How long will I be off work?
You should plan on taking at least two weeks off work.
When can I resume my normal activities?
You should plan on minimal activity for at least 48 hours after surgery.
The swelling and bruising around your eyes will actually increase at first, peaking at about three days, post-surgery.
Most swelling and bruising should disappear within two weeks. Some subtle swelling will remain for several months, but only you and your surgeon will be aware of it.
You should resume your normal activities as soon as you feel comfortable.
When will I see the end result?
After two weeks all your dressings will have been removed and you will notice a change in the shape or size of your new nose.
It will take a number of months for the skin of your nose to fully "re-drape". At this time you will see the final result.
Rhinoplasty remains the commonest cosmetic surgical procedure for men and the third commonest for females, behind liposuction and breast augmentation. The procedure can improve the proportion of the nose, and allow it to match the size and shape of your face. If you are considering surgery, the first step is the opinion of an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon, and this can be found by contacting the Australian Society of Plastic Surgeons in your state and they will direct you to a surgeon in your area.
Dr Jeremy Hunt is a renowned plastic surgeon, appearing on shows such as Nine's Body Work. Having trained in Australia and the United States, he has been continually exposed to the latest advances in plastic surgery
www.drjeremyhunt.com
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