Nose Surgery
Incredibly, the first nose job (or Rhinoplasty) was performed in India, around 500 BC, by a renowned Indian
doctor who was trying to restore noses that had been amputated as punishment. Even more remarkably, the procedure remains
largely unchanged to the present day.
A Rhinoplasty is performed either for aesthetic or reconstructive purposes, and is now the second most popular cosmetic surgery in the US behind Liposuction.
Nose Job Basics
A Rhinoplasty can be performed under local or general anaesthetic. The surgeon first has to separate the skin from the underlying structures, a process that allows him to get deep inside the nose to make the necessary adjustments. Then he reshapes the bone and cartilage underneath to the desired shape.
A surgeon will often break the existing structure with a small hammer, before reshaping it as desired to eliminate any bumps or unsightly contours. Occasionally a synthetic implant may be used for this purpose. The Septum, the piece of cartilage that runs down the middle of the nose, may also be adjusted to improve the patient's airflow and breathing.
Is a Nose Job for you?
There are several different reasons to get a nose job. The most popular these days is for aesthetic reasons. But many people also have breathing problems that can be easily improved by some surgical manipulation of the septum. Cameron Diaz is one recent celebrity who has had surgery for breathing problems, while the list of Hollywood stars getting nose jobs is growing every day.
Nose Job Recovery
A Rhinoplasty inevitably results in swelling and bruising, plus a stuffed up feeling that can be quite uncomfortable for the patient. The cast is not removed for at least 5 days, but most patients can be out of bed within 2 days. It will be several weeks before a full recovery will be made.
Patients need to take great care washing their face, and should avoid strenuous exercise, or anything that might raise blood pressure.
Nose Job Dangers
Most nose jobs are done under general anaesthetic, with all the associated risks of surgery. Scarring can occur if small incisions need to be made in the nose. There is also a risk of burst blood vessels that can lead to permanent red spots on the skin.