Nose Surgery – Rhinoplasty

What is rhinoplasty surgery?

Rhinoplasty surgery, also known as nose surgery, is a surgical procedure that aims to improve the size, shape, or angle of the nose. This can be done to alter the nose’s width and profile and give the patient more confidence in their appearance. It can also improve nasal function and breathing.

Slight changes to the nose can greatly affect a person’s appearance. As a result, it is important to seek surgery from a qualified professional who is experienced in performing surgery on this delicate area. Dr Matt Starr is a highly trained surgeon who will ensure you get personalised care and treatment for your individual case.

What can rhinoplasty surgery achieve?

People may seek this procedure due to aesthetic concerns, functional issues, or both. For example, some people may wish to alter the length or width of their nose or to adjust the height of the nasal bridge. Others may wish to address nasal obstruction and improve their breathing. As well as this, patients may also seek surgery to correct deformities due to birth defects or injuries. Whatever the case, your surgeon will adjust the surgical techniques to suit your needs.

You may seek rhinoplasty surgery if you wish to:

• Improve your nasal symmetry
• Adjust the width or length of your nose
• Change the height of the nose
• Alter a prominent dorsal hump
• Straighten a crooked nose due to injury
• Open nasal passages to improve breathing function
• Correct a deviated nasal septum
• Create more balanced facial proportions

The above list is not a guarantee of good results, as every surgery is different, and this means you’ll need to thoroughly discuss your own goals with Dr Matt Starr. Nose surgery can change the size or shape of the nostrils, nasal bridge, nasal tip, or the angle between the nose and the upper lip. The procedure will be customised to suit your specific concerns and goals for surgery.

Am I a suitable candidate?

It is important to ensure you are suitable before proceeding with your surgery. Suitable patients for rhinoplasty surgery are usually at a stable and healthy weight and are seeking to improve either the function or appearance of their nose. Patients should also have realistic expectations and be aware that while a certain look may suit someone else’s facial features, it may not complement their facial anatomy in the same way. Your surgeon will work with you to determine how to adjust your nasal shape in a way that compliments your natural features. Both men and women can be suitable for rhinoplasty surgery, provided that they are over 18 and their facial structures have fully developed.

Consultation with Dr Matt Starr

Prior to your procedure, a consultation with your surgeon will be required to discuss the details of your surgery. During this meeting, you will discuss your reasons for seeking rhinoplasty and what outcomes you hope to attain from the procedure. As well as this, you will need to detail your medical history, including any medications you are taking or any past surgeries you have had. This will help us develop a procedure plan that is compatible with your health and desired outcomes. Dr Starr will explain the process and outline your surgical options so that you are well informed and know what to expect. This consultation is a good opportunity for patients to ask any questions or clarify any uncertainties before their rhinoplasty procedure.

The procedure

The procedure itself can vary depending on your needs and the factors discussed during your consultation. It is usually performed with general anaesthesia to ensure patients have a comfortable experience and can take around two hours. Rhinoplasty can address the upper nose (comprised of bone), the cartilage in the lower portion of the nose, or a combination. In some cases, patients may require a cartilage graft to be taken from another area of the body and transferred to the nose. Additionally, there are multiple surgical techniques, including open and closed surgery, which can both be useful for different purposes.

Open Rhinoplasty
The open technique involves making an incision on the underside of the nose, between the nostrils. This allows surgeons maximum access to the inner structures of the nose. Patients will have a small scar under the nose.

Closed Rhinoplasty
The closed technique involves hiding incisions on the inside of the nose. This method is more intricate and requires a great deal of skill on the part of the surgeon. However, the advantage is that patients will not have external scarring.

Recovery & aftercare

Once your surgeon has reshaped the nose and closed the incisions, your nose will be bandaged. You may also have a splint to support the nose during the initial healing phase. It is common to have some noticeable swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes, which means it will take some time to see your final results.

The nose is a delicate area, which means you should take care not to cause further injury during recovery. Patients should refrain from blowing their noses and be careful when bending over or stooping, as this can cause bleeding. Your surgeon will give you personalised instructions on how to care for your nose to ensure proper healing. For example, Dr Starr may instruct you to:

• Take time off work to recover
• Limit your physical activity and avoid exercising
• Sleep with your head slightly raised
• Take your prescribed medication
• Eat a healthy diet and stay hydrated
• Avoid making large facial expressions
• Be careful when brushing your teeth
• Consult your surgeon if any issues arise

What are the risks associated with rhinoplasty surgery?

Due to the delicate nature of rhinoplasty surgery, there are some risks to be aware of. It is important that patients research the potential complications of their surgery so that they can make a well-informed decision. The risks of rhinoplasty surgery include:

• Persistent swelling
• Ongoing pain
• Asymmetry
• Poor healing
• Visible scarring
• Unwanted outcome
• Infection
• bleeding
• Further surgery