Nose surgery aims to change or improve the shape of the nose. This surgery can be performed for both aesthetic and medical reasons. However, there are some things you should understand, before deciding to undergo rhinoplasty.
In general, rhinoplasty or also called rhinoplasty useful for correcting difficulty breathing due to a less than ideal nose shape, correcting congenital defects of the nose, or correcting a disproportionate nose shape due to an accident.
The upper part of the nose is bone, while the lower part is cartilage. The structure of cartilage, bone, skin, or a combination of the three can be engineered through a rhinoplasty procedure.
Nose Surgery Technique
Nose surgery can be performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia, according to the doctor's advice and considerations. If under general anaesthesia, you will need to stay in the hospital after the surgery.
The length of time required to perform rhinoplasty is estimated to be around 1-2 hours. Based on the surgical technique used, rhinoplasty can be divided into two types, namely:
- Open technique, which is a surgical incision made outside the nose
- Closed technique, in which a surgical incision is made inside the nose
When planning a rhinoplasty, the doctor will analyze the shape of the nose and the skin around the nose, as well as what the individual patient's nasal anatomy would like to change. Therefore, it is important to discuss with your doctor first, before deciding to undergo rhinoplasty.
Preparation Before Undergoing Nose Surgery
Nose surgery will permanently change the shape of the nose and can pose various risks. Therefore, you need to inform the purpose of the operation and what kind of nose shape is expected.
Later, the doctor will also conduct an examination to determine the right rhinoplasty technique. In addition, there are several things that you need to pay attention to before undergoing rhinoplasty, including:
1. Undergo inspection
This process is done by checking the condition of the skin, the strength of the cartilage, and the shape of the nose. In addition, you will also undergo supporting examinations such as blood tests and nose X-rays, as well as nose shots from various sides.
The results of the nose shot will be digitally reconstructed as a surgical design or estimate, using a special computer application. This method is done to see what possible risks and changes will be made to the nose.
2. Discuss medical history
There are some conditions that are not recommended for rhinoplasty, such as hemophilia. Therefore, it is important to share your medical history with your doctor, especially if you have had surgery, are taking medication, and have a history of diseases or disorders of the nose.
In addition, there is a possibility that the doctor will recommend other surgeries, such as changing the chin to make it appear larger, so that its size is more balanced with the nose.
3. Stop the smoking habit
If you are an active smoker, it's a good idea to stop the habit before undergoing rhinoplasty. This is because smoking can hinder the postoperative recovery process and increase the risk of infection.
4. Avoid taking certain drugs
Avoid taking certain medications, such as aspirin or ibuprofen, for 2 weeks before and after surgery. This is because these types of drugs can increase the risk of bleeding.
Some Nose Surgery Risks You Need to Know
After surgery, the nose will usually bleed for a few days so you will need a nose shield. In addition, you will also feel weak and sleepy in the following days.
Just like other types of surgery, rhinoplasty is also not free from risks. The following are some risks or complications of rhinoplasty that you should consider:
- Excessive bleeding
- Infection
- Side effects of drugs
- Pain and swelling in the nose that doesn't go away
- Difficult to breathe
- The shape of the nose does not match the initial expectations
- The incision scar is clearly visible
- A hole forms in the wall between the nostrils
- Numbness in the nose and surroundings
- The implant used is infected or protruding from the skin, requiring implant replacement surgery
Tips for Recovery After Nose Surgery to Prevent Complications
To avoid bleeding and swelling after surgery, there are several things you can do, namely:
- Sleep with a higher pillow position.
- Avoid blowing your nose, straining, and laughing excessively.
- Protect your nose from water, especially when showering.
- Avoid activities that involve a lot of movement, such as aerobics and running.
- Choose clothes with buttons or zippers to avoid wearing clothes off the head.
- Gently brush your teeth to reduce friction on your upper lip, which is close to your nose.
- Avoid wearing glasses that put pressure on the nose for at least 4 weeks after surgery.
- Avoid being outside for too long and being exposed to the sun, because it can cause the nose skin color to become permanently uneven.
- Avoid putting ice on your nose.
- Limit salt consumption so that the swelling of the nose after surgery does not get worse.
To avoid complications that may occur, it is best if the rhinoplasty procedure is only performed by a surgeon in a hospital or clinic with adequate tools and facilities.
Nose surgery should also be performed on patients aged 16 years and over if the goal is aesthetics or improving the appearance of the nose.
In addition, you also need to consider the cost of rhinoplasty, because generally rhinoplasty is not covered by insurance if the purpose is for aesthetics.
There are many things to consider and understand before deciding to have rhinoplasty. So, first consult with your doctor before deciding to undergo this surgery.
