Rhinoplasty

What is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape or reproportion the elements of the nose to improve the overall aesthetics of the facial proportions. It can restore the shape of a broken nose, correct a birth defect or improve certain breathing difficulties. The upper part of the nose is bone, with cartilage extending from the bone. Rhinoplasty can change any of these, or all three.

WHAT CAN YOU EXPECT?

In a rhinoplasty, your specific problem will be corrected – and since there are such a variety of these among the many people who choose to have the procedure, there isn’t one specific outcome. That’s why your surgeon will tailor the procedure to your needs. If you’d like a nose that’s straighter or narrower, shorter or fuller, this can be achieved.

A prominent nose can be made smaller, or a wide nose made narrower. A rhinoplasty can also correct a nose deformed by an injury, restoring symmetry.

INTERESTED IN THE PROCEDURE?
WE’D LOVE TO HEAR FROM YOU

Day Clinic:	+27 21 424 2251
After Hours:	+27 21 423 7030
Fax:	+27 21 424 2259

183 Bree Street, 1st Floor, Cape Town, 8001
P.O. Box 15709, Vlaeberg, 8018

SOME FREQUENTLY
ASKED QUESTIONS

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How do I plan for my Rhinoplasty?

Before you make the decision to have a rhinoplasty, your surgeon will discuss whether the surgery is suitable for you.

Your motivation for the surgery is important. You and your surgeon will discuss your goals and expectations to ensure that you’ll have realistic expectations and will know what can be achieved. He or she will need to know your medical history, including whether you’ve had any nasal obstruction or surgeries, and what medications you take. You’ll have a physical examination of your facial features, including your nose, as well as blood tests.

Your surgeon will take several photographs of your nose. Many surgeons use software which can show the results that are possible and help you see what the final outcome will be.

What is the procedure for a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty may be done inside the nose or through a small incision at the base of your nose. During the procedure your surgeon will readjust the bone and cartilage beneath the skin.

Your nose can be reshaped in several ways, depending on its shape and structure, and what needs to be removed or added. A surgeon may use cartilage taken from deeper inside your nose or from your ear, or even bone or cartilage from other parts of your body. Once the restructuring is complete, the skin and tissue are replaced and incisions are closed with sutures.

How should I prepare for a Rhinoplasty?

Before your surgery you may be asked to stop smoking for 2 – 4 weeks prior to the procedure. Nicotine retards the healing process, and quitting for as long as possible before surgery helps improve blood flow.

You will also have to have a blood test before surgery is performed.

You should stop taking certain medication, like aspirin and some anti-inflammatory drugs.

Avoid recreational drugs, and disclose to your surgeon any other medication you’re taking, since you may need to adjust these.

Be sure to arrange for transport to and from the clinic, since you will not be able to drive yourself after the procedure.

Where will my rhinoplasty surgery be performed?

The surgery will be performed in one of our fully equipped operating theatres.

What anaesthetic will be used for my rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation or general anaesthesia, depending on the complexity of your surgery. Your surgeon may prefer a specific method, and will discuss all options with you.

How do I recover from my rhinoplasty?

Nearly everyone who has rhinoplasty is able to safely leave the clinic the same day after surgery. Few patients need to stay in the clinic overnight.

You will experience some discomfort in the first week, but medication will help ease the pain. Your nose may be congested because of swelling or splints, but after the first few days, the discomfort will gradually decrease.

Your surgeon may give you some of the advice and instructions listed here:
You should avoid strenuous activities, and avoid blowing your nose.
Take baths instead of showers while you have bandages on your nose.
Avoid constipation, which can cause you to strain.
Don’t use cold packs or ice on your nose after surgery.
Brush your teeth gently.
Wear clothes that don’t need to be pulled over your head.
Don’t use spectacles or sunglasses for at least four weeks, and avoid the sun.

What can I expect after my rhinoplasty?

Most people do not experience too much pain after the first day of recovery, but you will have swelling, bruising and some discomfort – including around your eyes – all of which are normal.

When can I return to normal activities?

You will be able to return to most normal activities about a week after your surgery, and you can resume all activities after two to four weeks. The swelling will gradually go away over the weeks or months that follow, and most swelling is completely gone within the first year.

What are the risks involved in rhinoplasty surgery?

As with any major surgery, there are some risks, which include bleeding, infection as well as the general risks associated with anaesthesia.

Some of the other risks that are specific to rhinoplasty include numbness, asymmetry, persistent pain or swelling, breathing difficulty, scarring, and a hole in the septum. Your surgeon will discuss all these with you before you make a final decision.