What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose. People opt for the surgery for a variety of reasons.
What to expect surgically
A best rhinoplasty specialist like Dr. Oakley Smith, will sit down with you to discuss how you envision your nose looking or what problems you’re having with it. For instance, rhinoplasty can make your nose larger or smaller; change the angle of your nose; fix lumps, bumps or indentations; or fix nasal defects that make it hard for you to breathe.
Incisions will be made (usually on the inside of the nose) so that the surgeon can see the bones and cartilage supporting your nose. What happens next depends on the desired outcome. In most cases a splint is usually applied to the nose to help it hold its new shape as it heals. The procedure normally takes about two to three hours under a general anesthetic. You won’t stay overnight unless there are additional, unrelated medical concerns.
Rhinoplasty results are permanent, unless there is some injury to the nose afterwards. The surgery should only be done on fully developed noses – about the age of 15 or 16 in females and 17 or 18 in males.
After surgery
Keep your head as elevated as possible and pretty stationary for the first few days after the procedure. There will be bruising and puffiness in your face and perhaps swelling that could last a few days. The swelling and discomfort will be helped by applying cold compresses. In about a week or so the nose splint will be removed.
When can I wear my glasses again?
Most specialists recommend that glasses not be worn until four weeks after a rhinoplasty procedure. The nasal bones aren’t yet totally healed and you don’t want to risk causing any abnormality, indentation or extra nasal deformities.
But, if you’re really dependent on your eyeglasses, there are ways that you can ensure a positive healing process. After the splint is removed, taping your glasses to your forehead is a good option. You can also buy a small gadget at your local pharmacy that will allow your glasses to sit on your cheeks or you could opt for a cushion-like foam between your nose and glasses.
Dr. Smith practices exclusively in rhinoplasty. Book an appointment with him to discuss your symptoms and goals. He’ll gladly answer all your questions and concerns.