Considering a Rhinoplasty? What to expect from surgery at Berkshire Grove Hospital
A Rhinoplasty (or 'nose job’) is a surgical procedure for reshaping the nose, usually for aesthetic or functional reasons. You might decide to have this surgery to make your nose bigger or smaller, modify its shape, change the angulation of the tip, or improve your ability to breathe through it. Rhinoplasty is one of the top five most common aesthetic procedures performed in the UK.
What is Rhinoplasty Surgery?
The surgery typically reshapes the nose by sculpting cartilage and bone, and is normally performed under general anaesthesia. There are two common approaches to surgery: closed or open. The closed method involves incisions within the nostrils leaving no visible external scars, whereas the open method makes use of an additional short incision across the columella between the nostrils.
The choice between closed or open rhinoplasty depends on your individual circumstances, but even with the open approach the incision typically heals very well, leaving an almost unnoticeable scar.
What are the risks and benefits of Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty can boost an individual’s confidence in their appearance as well as bring about functional improvements to their airway and breathing. Nonetheless it is crucial to weigh up the benefits and risks in advance by consulting with your surgeon to make a well-informed decision.
Our carefully-selected, leading specialist surgeons at Berkshire Grove Hospital are well experienced to provide professional advice about rhinoplasty surgery, ultimately empowering you to decide if Rhinoplasty is the right procedure to achieve your goals.
Photography: Richard Washbrooke @rwashbrooke
What to expect during your consultation
During your consultation at Berkshire Grove Hospital, your surgeon will review your medical history and discuss the specific goals you wish to accomplish through a rhinoplasty. This stage is crucial to determine whether the surgery is right for you, and to address any queries or concerns you may have. This is an open and collaborative process, allowing us to provide our patients with first-class care.
The surgical technique
Your surgery will be performed under general anaesthesia. The incision used is dependent on whether a closed or open technique is used.
Closed Rhinoplasty involves discreet incisions within the nostrils, leaving no visible external scars.
Open Rhinoplasty creates a minor incision in the columella, the bridge between the nostrils, followed by additional incisions made within the nasal passages.
For minor changes, cartilage can be sourced from within the nose or the ear, while more extensive transformations might require rib cartilage. Upon sculpting the desired changes, the skin and soft tissue are restored and the incisions carefully sutured.
What to expect with aftercare
Each patient’s recovery is different, and it is important to adhere to your surgeon's tailored guidance. This could include a period of reduced activity, delayed return to work, a phased return to exercise, and recommendations about medications.
After surgery some discomfort is expected. This is usually manageable with over-the-counter pain relief medication, but you should consult with your surgeon for specific advice regarding your case. Bruising and swelling are common after surgery and not a cause for concern; this settles down naturally over time.
