Rhinoplasty, or plastic surgery of the nose can improve the nose you were born with, modify the effects of aging, fix an injury and improve appearance. A nose that is too long, wide, small or large can be corrected, not only to improve facial balance, but at the same time the nasal airway can be helped to improve air flow and minimize sinus problems.
[Before and after Rhinoplasty] [Pre- and postoperative instructions for rhinoplasty] 
WHAT IS RHINOPLASTY SURGERY?
Rhinoplasty is the name of the operation that corrects deformities of the external nose. In a Rhinoplasty, incisions are placed just inside the rim of the nostrils where they are invisible. In some cases, a very short incision may be made at the base across the skin between the two nostrils. The soft tissues of the nose are then separated from the underlying cartilage and bone. The offending structures are sculpted and the remaining cartilage and bones are reshaped and refined to attain the shape of the desired nose. Rhinoplasty can be performed in conjunction with reconstructive nasal-septal surgery to relieve obstructions inside the nose. When this is done, the operation is called Septorhinoplasy. In a septorhinoplasty, the obstruction is removed through internal incisions and the interior of the nose is restructured. This surgery usually takes one to two hours, depending on the amount of work that must be done. A small splint is then placed on the external nose for a few days and a light internal dressing may be applied. DECIDING ON SURGERY
Anyone interested in cosmetic or functional surgery of the nose should consult a surgeon who specializes in facial plastic surgery. During your initial consultation. Dr. Younger makes a thorough evaluation of the external and internal shape of your nose to determine whether surgery is indicated. He will then discuss any questions and concerns related to the surgery. In addition to the skill of the surgeon, the patient's realistic expectations about the results of the surgery and the general emotional state are important considerations. Mental attitude is as important as the ability to heal. In evaluating candidates for facial plastic surgery, computer facial imaging may be indicated to help plan surgery and achieve realistic goals. Once surgery is agreed upon, pre-operative photographs are taken to help Dr. Younger plan the operation. These photographs are compared with similar ones taken sometime after surgery and serve as a permanent before-and-after record of the results. WHERE IS SURGERY PERFORMED?
The operation can be performed in a hospital, an ambulatory surgical care centre or our surgery centre, depending on the patient's and Dr. Younger's preference. It can be performed safely on an out patient basis. THE IMMEDIATE AFTER-EFFECTS
After the operation, some swelling and bruising of the nose and eyelids can be expected. The swelling usually subsides within the first few days to a couple of weeks. There may be mild discomfort for a short time after surgery, but this is controlled easily. WHAT RESULTS CAN BE EXPECTED?
Significant improvement may be noticed as soon as the splint is removed from the nose. Several weeks to several months must pass though before the final result will be seen. Just how much improvement will occur depends on the individual's physical characteristics and the extent of the surgery. The final result may take up to two years for all the healing to occur. WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
The risks are minimal. There are inherent risks in any surgical undertaking and these will be discussed thoroughly with Dr. Younger. Some activities will be prohibited in the weeks following nose surgery: sun exposure, physical exertion and nasal injury must be avoided. It is crucial to follow post-operative directions and follow-up care is vital to monitor healing. Many thousands of nasal operations are performed successfully each year. HOW MUCH DOES IT COST?
Fees for cosmetic surgery and operative facilities vary widely and depend on the extent and complexity of the surgery as well as on the individual surgeon. Dr. Younger and his staff will discuss costs before the operation. Payment for cosmetic surgery is required 2 weeks prior to surgery, as this type of surgery is not covered by insurance. If the purpose of cosmetic surgery is to correct functional impairment, the BC Medical Services Plan may allow partial payment. If medical coverage is a possibility we will consult with the Medical Services Plan prior to arranging your operation. |
