Cosmetic Nasal Reshaping/ Rhinoplasty

Choosing a Procedure

Many men and women at various ages have this procedure done to improve their self image. It is recommended that females wait until 13 years of age and males 14 to ensure that facial growth is complete. Most common complaints regarding the nose are asymmetry, crookedness, excessive width, bumps, excessive projection, and a bump on the top of the nose.

Conditions Leading to a Good Candidate

• Nose does not seem to fit your face because it is too large
• The nasal bridge contains either a bump or indent which can be seen in your profile
• Nose is too wide when seen front view
• Tip droops or it is too large or thick
• Flared nostrils
• Crooked nose
• Asymmetrical nose
• Breathing problem involving airway obstruction

Consultation Expectations

Consultation is considered the first step for the patient. Dr. Kaila will discuss your expectations for your results as well as assess your nose to determine which corrections are needed. Come prepared, as there will be many important questions that will be asked of you during your consult. Some examples of these are listed below:

• Surgeries in past
• Medications being taken
• Medical conditions
• Allergies

During your assessment, Dr. Kaila will examine the size and shape of your nose as well as examining your skin. Dr. Kaila will also take into consideration the relationship of your nose to other features on your face. He may also suggest other cosmetic options which will help meet your goals and achieve optimal results.

Rhinoplasty

Technique is determined by both the preference of Dr. Kaila and your expected results. There are many different characteristics of your nose that can be altered.

• adjusting nasal bridge bigger or smaller
• decrease size or width of your nose
• tip reshaping
• narrowing of your nostrils
• altering the angle going from your nose to your upper lip

Closed Rhinoplasty involves an incision being made inside the nostrils within the nose.

Open Rhinoplasty involves a small incision made across the strip which separates your nostrils.

Dr. Kaila will sculpt your bone and cartilage to achieve the desired result. Certain areas may be built up with nasal cartilage and others shaved away. If your nostrils are being reduced or being narrowed, there are incisions made along the natural creases of your nose and the small wedges of skin are removed. The incisions for this are well concealed.

Safety of Procedure

There are thousands of people each year who undergo this surgery and no major complications are experienced. Dr. Kaila will discuss all risks and benefits which coincide with this procedure and they must be understood. You also need to express any and all questions or concerns you have regarding this procedure. The advice given by Dr. Kaila must be followed before and after your surgery; this will decrease some of the risks.

Preparation for Surgery

Once you select a surgery date for your procedure, you will be given an information package by your surgeon. This includes:

• General surgery information
• Specific risks
• Specific post operative instructions
• Specific as you heal instructions
• Surgical consent

Day of Surgery

Surgery is performed at our private clinic. This procedure is usually performed under a general anesthesia which is done by an anesthesiologist. Your physical status is always monitored during the operation as well as in recovery.

After Surgery

Immediately after surgery, you are brought to the recovery area. Pain medications are given to you if you are experiencing discomfort. In order to protect your nose as well as hold tissues in place, a splint is applied to your nose. Underneath the tip of your nose there will be a small bandage, and inside the nostrils there will be packing which will be removed 24 hours post operatively.

Healing

First Day

It is important to keep your head elevated; this helps minimize swelling and bruising.

• Minimum activity and rest is required
• Bleeding and stuffiness may occur
  

First Week

• Swelling will be at its peak but then start to decrease
• Bruising begins to fade; makeup can be used to minimize the appearance of bruising
• Stitches which are not dissolvable are removed at this time
• 1 week post operatively the splint is removed
• Resumption of regular activities which are non strenuous can commence

Four to Six Weeks

• Resumption of exercising and most normal activities can commence
• Swelling will continue to decrease
• Numbness will continue to diminish for several months; however, sensation loss may persist
• Eyeglasses may be worn
• Skin forms to the newly contoured nose

You must use sunblock for the protection of your skin. This should be done for at least 6 months post operatively.

Follow Ups

Post operative appointments are essential to evaluate the progress of your healing. Dr. Kaila will want to continue his assessment with periodic checkups. This is important so your surgeon can monitor your results and answer any of your questions and concerns post operatively.

Results

During the healing process, most people are a little anxious to see the final results. Improvement continues gradually each month. Most people are very pleased and impressed with their results. You will probably find that your confidence has been boosted and you’re less self conscious about yourself. Touchups are rare but sometimes are needed.