What is Rhinoplasty?

The nose is the fundamental pyramid at the facial level from a functional and aesthetic point of view. So much so that small changes can be seen from a distance.

Due to traumatic and/or genetic antecedents, alterations in shape and size can be evidenced. By means of a surgical procedure, its shape can be improved, giving a better facial harmony.

When can I have a rhinoplasty?

First you must define what type of rhinoplasty you require, and if additionally a functional correction is required, which includes treatment of deep structures, the most recommended is to wait until adequate maturation of the bony facial skeleton, which is usually achieved at the age of majority. The recommendation is always to perform it after the age of 18.

Before surgery?

You must go to an assessment appointment with the plastic surgeon, in which a medical history will be taken with emphasis for this surgery, it is very important to mention all your history, specifically facial trauma, and functional alterations, in addition to previous surgeries in this area.

In addition, in this surgery you will be examined, some measurements will be taken, and they will talk about the expectations of this surgery and the alternatives for each particular case. 

If you are a candidate for this procedure, pre-surgical studies will be requested in order to evaluate that you are in optimal conditions to face the surgery, in some cases it is necessary to request specific images of the nose, or functional studies of the same for the planning of the surgery.

Types of Rhinoplasty: Open and Closed

There are two main surgical approaches to rhinoplasty: the closed technique and the open technique. The choice depends on the anatomical characteristics of the patient and the changes to be achieved.

Closed rhinoplasty:

In this technique, all incisions are made inside the nose, which means that there are no visible scars. It is ideal for cases where moderate adjustments are needed and the nasal structure allows good access from the inside. It usually offers faster recovery and less postoperative swelling.

Open rhinoplasty:

Here a small incision is made in the columella (the part of skin between the nostrils), which allows lifting the skin of the nose and have a direct view of the internal structures. This is the preferred technique for more complex cases, such as very deviated noses, marked asymmetries or secondary rhinoplasties. Although the incision is visible in the immediate postoperative period, it tends to heal very well over time.

Each technique has its advantages and it will be the surgeon who will determine which is the most appropriate according to the patient's needs and expectations.

After surgery?

After surgery, the first healing will be performed by Dr Ricardo approximately 48 to 72 hours after surgery. You must have a lying position face up and semi sitting, avoid being completely lying down for the first few days.

You should also have someone to help you with certain daily tasks for the first few days.

It is important to avoid blowing your nose, avoid sneezing and keep your head down for the first few days.

Expected Results

The objective of a rhinoplasty is to achieve a nose that looks natural and is in harmony with the rest of the face. The ideal result does not seek to completely transform the patient's identity, but to highlight their features in a balanced and functional way.

Some of the benefits that can be obtained with a rhinoplasty include:

- Reduction or increase of nasal size

- Correction of the tip (too wide, drooping or deviated)

- Rectification of a prominent nasal dorsum or nasal hump

- Improved symmetry and proportion in the facial profile

- Correction of deviations affecting respiration

The changes are visible progressively, with a significant improvement in the first few weeks, although the final result can be seen more clearly after 6 to 12 months, when the inflammation has completely resolved.