How painful is cosmetic nose surgery?

Nose surgery, also known as Rhinoplasty is often performed to fix problems from genetic defects, illness, or trauma, to improve nasal function. This is usually done to help the patient regain normal breathing through the nose that may otherwise be affecting sleep or the ability to exercise.

However, more people are now seeking cosmetic corrections to help improve their overall facial appearance. These corrections may be performed to reshape, reduce, or make the nose more symmetrical in relation to the other features of a patient’s face.

 

The Procedure

The surgery can include making incisions inside the nostrils or around the tissues between the nostrils. Once the tissue is pulled back, the surgeon can then reshape the cartilage and bone underneath to achieve the desired effect.

 

This procedure is particularly effective for patients who would like to reshape the size of their nose or nostrils, eliminate a bulbous or turned up nose tip, or remove a bump in the ridge. Like a gifted sculptor, a skilled plastic surgeon will take into account all of the facets of the patient’s face to create the perfect centerpiece.

 

The procedure can take anywhere between 1.5 and three hours, depending on the amount of shaping needed. Once completed, the incision will be sutured back together and splints may be put in place to protect the incision and cartilage.

 

The Recovery

While considered an outpatient procedure—meaning no overnight stay in a hospital is required—rhinoplasty is still surgery. Patients can expect to have some bleeding, bruising, swelling, and pain directly afterward. However, pain and swelling can be controlled by prescribed or over-the-counter medicines, and most symptoms should be gone within a week.

 

Patients should be able to return to limited activities shortly after the procedure is completed, although the splints and bruising around the nose and under the eyes may make some people uncomfortable about being seen in public places for the first week or so.

 

Rhinoplasty patients should avoid strenuous activity like running, swimming, or going to the gym for up to two to three weeks, and they should try not to wear eye glasses or readers for four to five weeks.

 

The Results

You will be amazed at how small changes to your nose can create dramatic results for your overall appearance. Dr. Inzhili K. Kitto can show you some “before” and “after” photos of her former patients to give you an idea of what you can expect from your surgery.

 

Dr. Kitto is a highly-skilled, board-certified plastic surgeon with a keen eye for aesthetics. She’ll be happy to set up a consultation with you to discuss what you wish to achieve, then make recommendations on how to best reach your goal.

 

She’ll also take the time to provide you with individualized service, to answer all of your questions or concerns, and make you feel at ease about taking the next step forward.

 

If you have ever looked in the mirror and wished there was something you could do to change the look of your nose, stop wishing and take action. Call Dr. Kitto’s office today at 804-294-1777 to make your consultation appointment.