 The Nose
A nose plasty is the procedure of changing the shape and length of the bone and cartilage within the nose. Very rarely is it necessary to cut or remove the outer skin. As long as the skin is thin and pliable, it will adapt to the reconstructed framework beneath, leaving no tell-tale scars. Why have a nose plasty?
An oversized nose - too large for the face upon which it sits, can be reduced in size. A crooked nose profile (eagles nose) can be straightened, or a nose out of alignment, put into better perspective. A wide nose may need narrowing, or a high over-thin nose can be made wider, and a long nose may need shortening. The Operation
Usually the procedure is carried out under local anaesthetic combined with tranquillizers. The surgery is undertaken without pain and takes from 30 minutes to more than an hour. On completion, the patient rests for a few hours and may then return home. As the bone is fractured as part of the procedure, a protective plaster or plaster of Paris bandage is worn for 8 to 10 days. Healing
Within 24 hours of the operation, swelling develops around the eyes, and can appear to be a black-eye! Normally the patient suffers no post-operative pain. Paracetamol taken twice daily reduces swelling and of course assists in relieving pain in individual cases. After four days the swelling has normally disappeared, and on the tenth day following the surgery the plaster is removed. Convalescence
After the plaster is removed, some swelling may return. It can be weeks or even months before the healing process is complete and the nasal shape settles down to its final appearance. However, after around three weeks following surgery, the patient will appear normal, and may resume a regular routine. Complications
After aesthetic nasal surgery, complications are extremely rare. As with any surgery, infection can occur, but is most unusual. It is possible the end result is not entirely to the liking of the patient. In that unlikely event, further corrective surgery can always be undertaken. The Result
The transformation in the size and shape of the nose can be dramatic. In most cases however, the surgery is carried out harmoniously, and the change is quite subtle. Mostly, it is the patient who most appreciates the improvements, and is most happy with the end- result. |
