It is an operation done to reshape the nose. It may
involve reducing or increasing it in size.
It may be to restore the shape of the nose following injury
or trauma.
Someone may want to change the natural shape of their
nose to one that is more aesthetically pleasing.
Usually a general anaesthetic.
One and a half to two hours.
Usually an overnight stay.
The operation can be performed through incisions within the
nose. Through these incisions the skin is lifted up and necessary
adjustments to the bone or cartilage are made. Then the
incisions in the side of the nose (mucosa) are then closed with
absorbable sutures. This is called the closed approach.
The operation can also be performed by lifting the skin up
following an incision on the base of the nose. In which case the
skin is lifted up as a sleeve, adjustments are again made to the
bone and the cartilage and then placed back. Sutures are used
to close the skin incision. This second technique is called the
open approach. The scars are usually barely perceptible.
The problems are similar to any surgical procedure such as
bleeding which may need to be stemmed with packs, bruising,
swelling and infection.
Some patients may experience a temporary loss or reduction
of sensitivity to smell.
There may be a need for minor adjustments if there are
irregularities usually a year after the initial operation.
Bruising and swelling take
about one week to three
weeks to settle. So give
yourself enough time if you
have an important social
function such as a wedding.