NOSE RESHAPING SURGERY (RHINOPLASTY)

Nose reshaping (rhinoplasty), also known as a "nose job", is a plastic surgery procedure that alters the function &/or appearance of the nose.

It can be done to correct congenital defects that affect breathing or as a cosmetic procedure to change the size & shape of the nose to improve facial appearance.

The most common reasons for cosmetic nasal surgery are:

- nose is too big
- nose is too wide
- nose is crooked
- tip of nose droops

Nose reshaping surgery typically involves removing excess bone & cartilage to reshape the nose. For most nasal surgery procedures, incisions are made inside the nose and the operation is performed through these incisions. It is usually done under general anaesthesia.

After surgery, there will be swelling & bruising around the nose & eyes. Your nose will be packed with gauze & a nasal splint must be worn for 5-7 days.

Most cosmetic surgeons recommend that the youngest age suitable for surgery is 14 years in girls & 16 years in boys (so that adequate facial development has occurred).

Risks of nasal surgery:

- nasal bleeding
- infection
- poor cosmetic result

If a second nasal operation is required to correct the nose (secondary correction), this can be done no sooner than 6-12 months after the first procedure.