Septorhinoplasty

This procedure is performed with the patient asleep (general anesthesia). Pre-operative photographs of the patient's face and nose, a careful internal nasal exam and the patient's goals for facial “balance” are used to direct the steps in the surgical procedure. Incisions are placed inside the nose or hidden on the columella (the bottom part of the nasal septum which joins the upper lip skin). Deformed cartilage and excessive bone can be removed or reshaped. The nasal breathing passages are also opened with techniques or graft placements to widen the internal nasal cavity.

Occasionally casts, splints or tiny sponges are temporarily placed to facilitate healing and stop bleeding. Patient's generally go home the day of the procedure. Pain medication and antibiotics are routinely prescribed post-operatively to make the patient comfortable and prevent infection. A follow-up appointment at one week allows inspection of the healing tissue and cleaning of the nose. Mild to moderate nasal and eye swelling and bruising is expected depending on the amount of reshaping performed. Nasal swelling gradually decreases over the first few weeks following surgery. The nose actually continues to heal and shrink over the first one to two years following surgery. Post-operative photos are taken to document the improved aesthetic appearance and monitor the healing process.