Rhinoplasty
If there are certain aspects of your nose you wish you could change, rhinoplasty can be an excellent procedure to resolve a longtime insecurity or to simply improve the balance of your facial features. Rhinoplasty is designed to enhance facial harmony by reshaping the bones, cartilage, and skin of the nasal structure, thereby improving the internal framework of your nose. Since the nose is the central feature of the face, subtle changes in this region often lead to a dramatic difference. In this way, rhinoplasty can improve the aesthetics of your entire appearance! The procedure can also help address breathing issues by straightening a deviated septum, if necessary.
Who is a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Dr Vaneshri Chetty-B, our plastic surgeon based in Johannesburg, performs rhinoplasty for individuals who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their nose. Patients considering rhinoplasty typically aim to achieve one or more of the following goals:
- To increase/decrease the size of the nose or nostrils
- To straighten a bump in the nasal bridge
- To correct the angle of the nasal tip
- To repair a deviated septum or improve airflow
With rhinoplasty or any cosmetic procedure, candidates for surgery should have realistic expectations of the outcome. During your consultation, Dr Chetty-B will listen to your goals and provide you with before-and-after photos of previous rhinoplasty results so you can gain an understanding of what the procedure can potentially achieve. After confirming that rhinoplasty would be an effective treatment option for your goals, Dr Chetty-B will be able to create a surgical plan tailored to attain your desired outcome.
How is the Rhinoplasty Procedure Performed?
Rhinoplasty is a facial plastic surgery procedure performed on an outpatient basis. General anesthesia is utilised, and an overnight hospital stay is typically not required; however, patients’ needs may vary depending on the complexity of their procedure. Rhinoplasty can be performed using either the open or closed technique—both approaches can have the benefit of virtually undetectable scarring once incisions are fully healed.
With open rhinoplasty, an incision is made along the natural crease where the nose meets the upper lip. From here, Dr Chetty-B can obtain a full view of the nasal framework and reshape the bones, cartilage, and nasal tissues within the context of your goals. During closed rhinoplasty, an incision is made internally and typically does not produce visible scarring. The best technique for your procedure will depend on the details of your treatment plan. If you have difficulty breathing due to a deviated septum, Dr Chetty-B can also repair your septum after cosmetic enhancement of your nose. Incisions are closed, and a splint and/or bandages are placed to facilitate the healing process.
What is the Rhinoplasty Recovery Period Like?
Most patients are able to return to work and light daily activities one to two weeks after their surgery. Feelings of congestion, swelling, and bruising are normal immediately following your procedure. Dr Chetty-B will provide detailed post-operative instructions, such as how to care for your incisions and information about activity restrictions, to help encourage the smoothest possible recovery period. Swelling should gradually subside as your nose heals, but it can take up to one year for inflammation to fully disappear. Over-the-counter or oral pain medications can typically manage any discomfort experienced during recovery.
With rhinoplasty, Dr Chetty-B can address any concerns you have about the appearance of your nose and/or limited breathing function due to a deviated septum. Please contact our Johannesburg practice if you would like to speak to a member of our office, or if you are ready to schedule a consultation.
