Nose Surgery | The Beauty Gurus | Cosmetic Surgery Birmingham

“For years I had lived with a nose that made me feel self-conscious and it is now amazing to be free of that worry.”
Gemma D

Procedure

During rhinoplasty (Nose Job) surgery, incisions are made inside the nostrils, so the scars will not be visible. In more complex surgeries, an incision may be made at the base of the nose, but even this is rarely visible. The rhinoplasty itself normally lasts only an hour or two. However, it may take longer if another procedure, such as one to improve breathing, is performed at the same time.

Risks and Recovery

Generally, you can return home the same day, or the day after the rhinoplasty. The stitches will be removed within four to seven days, and the plaster can be taken off in seven to eleven days. Once this is done, you should be able to return to work. Any bruising that remains at this time should be mild and easy to hide with makeup.

Complications from rhinoplasty are rare, but they can include swelling around the nose, which will subside in time or an be decreased through massage exercises. Nose bleeds or infections are also possible after rhinoplasty, but can easily be corrected. In very rare instances, a minor adjustment is required following the initial surgery. However, you must wait about a year to allow for the scarring to soften and mature before any additional changes are made.

If you are considering rhinoplasty, contact us and we will schedule an initial consultation to discuss your expectations and to give you more information on the procedure. If you have further questions or concerns before the rhinoplasty, you may schedule a second meeting with Mr. Vik Vijh at no extra cost. Answers to common questions about rhinoplasty can be found below …

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to remodel the nose. The extent of the surgery can range from changing the size of the nose to completely changing its shape. The aim of surgery is to make your nose look more natural and ensure that it is in true harmony with the rest of your face. If you have difficulty breathing through your nose then this can also be addressed.

What does the surgery involve?

Rhinoplasty is performed either as an open or closed procedure. A closed procedure is where the surgeon makes any small incisions hidden inside the nostrils. An open rhinoplasty requires an additional incision to be made across the narrow piece of tissue that separates the nostrils (columella). The approach taken depends on the structural changes to be made to your nose.

Rhinoplasty is usually performed under a general anaesthetic (you will be asleep during the procedure).

What are the risks and side effects of surgery?

Having cosmetic surgery can be a very positive experience. Complications are infrequent and usually minor. However, no surgery is without risk and it is important that you are given a clear picture as everyone varies in the risks they are willing to take. These possible problems will be fully discussed at your consultation.

What is the estimated recovery time, absence from work and return to usual activities?

Providing all is well, you can expect to go home the morning after surgery. Occasionally, you can go home on the same day. You will have a splint on your nose to protect it and possibly a pack inside the nose. If used, the packs are removed on the first day and the splint is worn for approximately 1 week.

Recovery times vary from one person to another. By 2 weeks much of the swelling and bruising has gone. At this stage most patients are able to return to work. It takes 6 months to 1 year for all healing to be complete and the final result to be apparent.

Rhinoplasty post surgery timeline

Day 1 to 3

Might be some watery red fluid coming from your nose. You might feel a bit down and will feel like you have a heavy cold. Important that you do not blow your nose. May have slight nose bleeds.

Day 4 to 7

Bruising and swelling beginning to go down now. Should be able to wear your contact lenses but continue to sleep sitting up. Make sure that you keep the nasal splint dry. Any external stitches will be removed.

Day 7 to 10

You can now blow your nose (gently) and sleep lying down. Check your outpatient appointment time – you can soon have that splint removed. Eyes may still be black but the bruising is beginning to fade.

2 weeks

Much of the bruising and swelling is gone. Most patients are ready to go back to work or at least feel they can go out and about. Any remaining bruising can usually be covered up with make up.

3 weeks

Most of the swelling has gone now. At the end of this week, you can return to more vigorous exercise If you like.

2 months

You will still feel some numbness and stiffness at the end of your nose – this will continue to improve with time. It will be fine to return to any form of contact sport. Apply high factor sunscreen until at least the six month stage.