As common as nose jobs are, like all operations, there is still an element of risk involved. This article will help you to be able to make an informed decision about whether to decide to go ahead with having your nose reshaped or not.
The Risks
Nosebleeds are very common after Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping procedure). Although unlikely, it is possible to get an infection but a good surgeon and hospital will help to prevent this from happening. Every nose is different and there is no such thing as an absolutely perfect nose. You should expect some irregularities with the cartilage and bone. They are quite normal and are present in all noses.
Don’t be surprised if you have to have a second operation. Corrective surgery might be needed if the nose settles into its new shape incorrectly. If this is the case you will need to wait at least six or twelve months as the tissues will need time to heal properly and for the swelling to have completely disappeared.
The surgeon might also recommend Dermal fillers to be used after the surgery to fill out any subtle defects in the nose.
Recovery Time After The Operation
The surgeon will usually apply a splint to the nose for up to a week after the operation while the bones are setting. The nose may be packed very lightly with medicated gauze but this will removed by the second day.
You may experience nosebleeds and the surgeon will show you how to change the gauze bandages as they get soiled by the blood. It is important to keep the splints and dressings completely dry.
Your internal stitches will slowly dissolve themselves, so you don’t have to be concerned with getting them removed. If you have stitches on the external part of your nose, these will be removed by the end of your first week, most likely at the same time that your splint is removed.
It is very likely that you will experience some swelling, pressure and stuffiness for several weeks after the operation but in most cases you will be able to resume normal activities after only a few days.
You will be advised to keep your head elevated above the level of your heart for the first few days. This is important, as it will reduce the swelling.
If your nasal bones have been fractured, you may bruising around the eyelid area and have bloodshot eyes. Apart from looking as if you have just done 12 rounds with Mike Tyson, this is nothing to worry about. The bruising will usually peak after 72 hours and then will subside within 2 weeks.
You must avoid any contact sports or activity that may cause injury for four to six weeks. During this time the nose will be very tender and it will take at least three weeks before the nose is healed enough to allow full physical activity.
Even simple things like blowing your nose will be affected so try not to blow your nose too forcefully to avoid excessive bleeding. If you wear glasses, these may be taped to your forehead, as the bridge on your nose will not be properly set yet.
Overall, your nose will remain tender for up to twelve months, sometimes longer. It all depends on the thickness of your skin. The thicker your skin, the longer it will be before you eventually see the final shape.
The Risks
Nosebleeds are very common after Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping procedure). Although unlikely, it is possible to get an infection but a good surgeon and hospital will help to prevent this from happening. Every nose is different and there is no such thing as an absolutely perfect nose. You should expect some irregularities with the cartilage and bone. They are quite normal and are present in all noses.
Don’t be surprised if you have to have a second operation. Corrective surgery might be needed if the nose settles into its new shape incorrectly. If this is the case you will need to wait at least six or twelve months as the tissues will need time to heal properly and for the swelling to have completely disappeared.
The surgeon might also recommend Dermal fillers to be used after the surgery to fill out any subtle defects in the nose.
Recovery Time After The Operation
The surgeon will usually apply a splint to the nose for up to a week after the operation while the bones are setting. The nose may be packed very lightly with medicated gauze but this will removed by the second day.
You may experience nosebleeds and the surgeon will show you how to change the gauze bandages as they get soiled by the blood. It is important to keep the splints and dressings completely dry.
Your internal stitches will slowly dissolve themselves, so you don’t have to be concerned with getting them removed. If you have stitches on the external part of your nose, these will be removed by the end of your first week, most likely at the same time that your splint is removed.
It is very likely that you will experience some swelling, pressure and stuffiness for several weeks after the operation but in most cases you will be able to resume normal activities after only a few days.
You will be advised to keep your head elevated above the level of your heart for the first few days. This is important, as it will reduce the swelling.
If your nasal bones have been fractured, you may bruising around the eyelid area and have bloodshot eyes. Apart from looking as if you have just done 12 rounds with Mike Tyson, this is nothing to worry about. The bruising will usually peak after 72 hours and then will subside within 2 weeks.
You must avoid any contact sports or activity that may cause injury for four to six weeks. During this time the nose will be very tender and it will take at least three weeks before the nose is healed enough to allow full physical activity.
Even simple things like blowing your nose will be affected so try not to blow your nose too forcefully to avoid excessive bleeding. If you wear glasses, these may be taped to your forehead, as the bridge on your nose will not be properly set yet.
Overall, your nose will remain tender for up to twelve months, sometimes longer. It all depends on the thickness of your skin. The thicker your skin, the longer it will be before you eventually see the final shape.
