Rhinoplasty is performed under a general anaesthetic in an accredited hospital facility. The operation can take from 3 to 5 hours depending on the complexity of the presenting problem. There is no fixed time limit to the procedure and, provided it is safe, surgery only stops once the desired result is achieved.
The only external scar from the procedure is on the columella which is the small bridge of skin between the nostrils. This scar heals well and is generally very difficult, if not impossible, to see. The other incisions are internal and are concealed within the nose, so no scar is visible.
Often osteotomies (controlled fracturing of the bone) are required to reposition the nasal bones to straighten the nose and preserve the contour of the bridge. Significant hump reduction will always need osteotomies performed.
Changes to your nose, the defining central feature of your face and identity, can significantly affect your appearance. 3D image manipulation is the best way to ensure that you understand what we are trying to achieve with rhinoplasty. We find that patients really benefit from the visual perspective and sequence that the imaging manipulation provides illustrating how their nose may change.
Improvements to profile, size, shape, and length can all be demonstrated and refined to help us reach an understanding of what our patients are aiming for. A visual consensus on the ultimate goal through a 3D image of a face provides reassurance for both the surgeon and the patient.
Whilst the actual surgical outcome will not be exactly the same as the computer image, it does provide a realistic comparison and can help patients to reach a decision. This is not a common service provided by surgeons offering Rhinoplasty in Melbourne, and Canvas is proud to be able to deliver this service to patients.
Bleeding, infections, wound healing problems and scars are potential complications of any procedure. General anaesthesia itself also carries a small risk. Breathing can be affected if the internal dimensions of the airway are changed. Shape asymmetries, bony edges and visible cartilages under the skin can result. Complications will be discussed during your consultation with specific relevance to the rhinoplasty you will be having.
Rhinoplasty can be done as a day procedure, but it is preferable to stay overnight to ensure that you are comfortable and there are no bleeding problems. You need to allow about 2 weeks for recovery in terms of work and social commitments, however, this does vary from patient to patient. The amount of bruising and swelling will depend on whether the bone needs to be fractured or not but should settle over a 2 week period.
In making a decision to have Rhinoplasty, it is important to ensure that you see a qualified specialist plastic surgeon to discuss your options and suitability. We look forward to meeting you to do this and to answer any questions that you may have. Although we’re based on the Mornington Peninsula, we offer our services in Rhinoplasty to patients throughout Melbourne.