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Frequent Questions About Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)
· How old do you have to be to have rhinoplasty? · How do I prepare for my nose shaping procedure? · How long does the procedure take? · What form of anesthesia is used? · Can I return home the same day? · How long before I can return to normal activity?
How old do you have to be to have rhinoplasty? Rhinoplasty is routinely performed on patients as young as 16 years old with parental consent. Health is the primary consideration in determining the maximum age allowed for this procedure.
With a few exceptions, the nose shaping incisions are made inside the nose so there are no visible scars. Using specialized instruments, your surgeon cuts the nasal bones and moves and narrows them to reshape your nasal structure. The tip of your nose may be shortened or raised by removing or adding appropriate cartilage. In some cases, an implant or cartilage from another part of the body may be added to obtain your nose's ultimate shape. At the end of the procedure, taping and a protective splint are applied over your nose. These are generally left in place for seven days. The nose is usually packed with light gauze packing for five days. Placement and removal of the packing are painless. A small amount of bleeding from the nostrils immediately following the procedure is normal. This usually stops in one or two hours, but occasionally, you may have intermittent oozing for a day or two. If there are stitches outside of the nostrils, these are removed in 5-7 days. Stitches inside of the nostrils are the dissolving type and do not have to be removed. Since most rhinoplasty procedures are done inside the nose there are virtually no visible incisions or scarring.
How do I prepare for my nose shaping procedure? During your initial preoperative visit with your surgeon, be prepared to give a complete medical history including all your medications, allergies and previous surgeries. You will undergo a thorough physical examination and blood tests. If you are at or over age 40, an electrocardiogram will be required. Photographs are important aids in planning and performing your nose shaping. They become a permanent part of your patient record and are taken before and several months after your procedure. During your consultation, you will be given specific directions to help you prepare for your procedure. Instructions generally include cautions about taking certain medication and drinking alcohol, the shaving process and use of antibacterial soap. Do not get a suntan or sunburn in the week prior! You must not eat or drink anything eight hours before your procedure. If you take daily medication, ask your surgeon if it is safe to take before your procedure. You cannot use illicit drugs for three weeks prior to and three weeks after the procedure as they interfere with anesthesia and healing process. You must stop smoking, taking aspirin or taking diet pills at least two weeks prior to the procedure. If you have any sores on your body, if you have a cold, sore throat or allergic condition, inform your surgeon so you may be examined prior to your procedure
How long does the procedure take? The time varies depending on the amount of shaping necessary. Sixty to ninety minutes is the usual range. Work done to improve your breathing (septal) may add twenty minutes, while performance of a chin or cheek implant can add an hour.
What form of anesthesia is used? General anesthesia is used for all surgical procedures and is performed by a Professional M.D. Anesthesiologist.
Can I return home the same day?
Yes. Nose shaping is done on an outpatient basis. Be sure to arrange for
someone to drop you off, pick you up, take you home and stay with you
for at least 24 hours. · 3 days · 1 week · 1 month · 3 months · 6 months · 1 year
How long before I can return to normal activity? Most individuals may return to normal activities within seven days.
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