Nose Jobs: The Facts

17 April 2008

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Rhinoplasty (or nose jobs) are becoming increasingly common with celebrities, with Marilyn Monroe, Ashlee Simpson, Winona Ryder, Salma Hayek and Britney Spears all rumoured to have gone under the knife. It is now a very popular procedure that can make a significant difference to the whole facial appearance. But do we really know what's involved? Female First brings you the facts...

Whether you are unhappy with the length or shape, size of the nostrils, or you have an unsightly bump or bulbous tip, there is a solution with a nose reshaping procedure. In well-trained hands it can dramatically improve your looks and could balance out your face. Many people who choose to have this kind of surgery have been teased since being a child about their nose and want a nose that complements their other features.

It is a well-established procedure but it is still important to consider the risks involved and whether cosmetic surgery is the right choice for you.

How is it done?

There are three main types of rhinoplasty procedures.

Reduction rhinoplasty is the most commonly requested by women and men and aims to reduce a larger nose. Augmentation rhinoplasty, sometimes known as ethnic rhinoplasty, involves defining the bridge and tip of the nose and is more commonly requested by patients from ethnic groups or patients that have undergone significant injuries. Secondary, or revision, rhinoplasty is occasionally necessary when the original operation is unsatisfactory through tecnhical errors, healing problems or injuries.

In closed surgery, all incisions required to reshape the tip and bridge of the nose are placed inside the nostril and are therefore not visible. If the nostrils are to be reduced, there will be minimal scarring which is well hidden in the nostril crease. If the tip of the nose requires considerable reshaping, you may have a small scar on the underside of the nose.

In open surgery, as well as the incisions inside the nostrils, there is a small incision placed on the small bridge of skin between the nostrils. Some surgeons prefer this because it gives them greater control if there is intricate reshaping to be done.You should check in your consultation what kind of scarring you are likely to have.

The Procedure

The surgery generally lasts around two hours and is performed under general anaesthetic. You will stay over for one night in the hospital and should expect to return to work between 7-10 days later. The first step is to remove any bumps to give a straight line in profile. It is sometimes necessary to fracture the nasal bones to narrow the nose. Cartilage under the skin that shape the nose are adjusted to suit the new profile. Sometimes new tissue has to be implanted to get the desired effect, which can be taken from the nose itself, cartilage from the ear or, less often, from the ribs or man-made material is used.

Silicone rubber nasal splints may be inserted to make sure the the lining of the nose sets correctly. These will be removed in a simple procedure about a week later, but you will have to breathe through your mouth in the meantime.

Recovery

After surgery is complete, small dissolvable stitches are placed inside the nostrils, and tapes and plaster cast are applied. You will have to wear a plaster cast for seven days to support and protect the bones while they set in their new position.

You should not lie flat when sleeping for the first week, but prop yourself up with two or three pillows. You may have black eyes and a swollen face after the surgery for up to two weeks as the bones have been re-set. Pain is not usually a problem, you will probably have some injections in the first few hours and then can take Paracetemol for the few days after (you should avoid Aspirin because it increases bleeding). You should avoid vigorous exercise or stooping for the few days after to avoid a nosebleed. You must avoid blowing your nose for around 10 days after as well.

Some surgeons recommend not flying for a month after the operation so you should take this into consideration if you are considering having the surgery abroad.

The risks

Possible complications include bleeding, infection and swelling. There is also a chance the result will not be what you wanted/ expected. You should make sure you have had a full consultation with the surgeon to ensure they know exactly what you expect. Taking pictures of noses you like is always a good idea.

It is also important to remember that it does take between half a year and a year to fully settle down and so you can expect changes during this time.

Is it worth it?

A nose job could radically alter your looks, but often the results will be much more subtle. The surgery will generally set you back between �3000-�4000 with more experienced and prestigious practices charging much more. You should consider all the options and take advantage of the cooling off period after your consultation before you commit to surgery.

Tara Hounslea- Female First