Rhinoplasty (nose job, nasal surgery)
- What is it?
Rhinoplasty is altering the shape and size of the nose to put it into a more harmonious balance with the face. It may or may not involve surgery to improve breathing.
- Is Mr Callan experienced at this procedure?
This is an important question to ask. Not only is Mr Callan experienced at this procedure, but he performs it regularly and keeps up to date with the latest techniques. It is also important to know that as a fully trained plastic surgeon Mr Callan performs this procedure to the high standards of Australian Plastic Surgery.
- Can I see photographs?
You can see photographs in our office when you have a consultation. As Mr Callan performs this procedure frequently, there are large numbers of photographs to look at many of which will be of patients with a problem similar to yours. We do not publish photographs on the web for a number of reasons, but the most important of these is that you need realistic photographs for the particular type of rhinoplasty you will need.
- Who has a rhinoplasty?
Anybody who has a nose that they feel can be improved with surgery and has who has a deformity that is relatively easy to see. This may be caused by trauma or they may have been born with it or had it develop that way. Anybody with breathing difficulty may also be a candidate. In general one should wait until after the nose has finished growing.
- Am I suitable?
You need to be sensible, honest about your reasons, happy with your informed decision, and be as healthy as possible. A time of personal crisis is no time to be making decisions about such surgery.
- What would stop me from having the surgery?
You must not be smoking, outside the BMI range of 18-28, under stress when making your decision, or have a medical condition that would make surgery unsafe.
- How is it done?
Rhinoplasty is done through a small incision under the nose and inside the nose. The nasal shape under the skin is altered, the airway adjusted if appropriate, and the skin replaced. The skin then adopts the new nasal shape.
- What are the benefits?
This is entirely a personal matter, but obvious deformities can be corrected and can make you feel more comfortable with your nose, or help you breathe more satisfactorily.
- What are the risks?
All surgery carries some element of risk. You can minimize your risk by being as healthy as possible and as psychologically prepared as possible, by selecting an experienced and qualified surgeon, and giving yourself a stress free time during which to recover. Despite this there are some risks that you will need to discuss. The most common of these are slight asymmetry or needing a small adjustment after surgery. There are other risks common to all surgery, and you should be aware of these.
- Are there scars?
The small incisions for the surgery are always present, but fade over the first six to twelve months. Although always present, as a rule the incision lines are inconspicuous unless specifically searched for.
- How long am I in hospital for?
Usually overnight but occasionally you can go home the same day. Rhinoplasty is not particularly painful, but you will be given plenty of medication if it is required to keep you comfortable. The nose may be packed for a couple of hours only
- How long will I need to recover?
This varies but usually ranges from two to four weeks. The nose shape looks pretty good after two weeks, but takes many months to settle completely. No one will know but you. You must not drive until you are fully recovered from both the anaesthetic and the discomfort of surgery so as you are fully capable. If in doubt, don't.
- Do I wear a splint after surgery?
Yes, you will have a splint on for at least a week. This is to help reduce swelling and keep your nose shape steady while it is healing.
- Will I need to be seen after surgery?
Yes. We will keep in close contact with you by telephone for the first few days and then will see you about five days after surgery, then at ten days, then at four weeks, then at three months. You are of course welcome to call or visit anytime with any concerns.
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