Surgical procedures

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is an operation to change the size and shape of the nose. The operation may address inherited features or deformities that develop as the result of injury. It may also be directed at improving nasal breathing.

The nose is a prominent facial feature and differs greatly from person to person. It may be the focus of powerful feelings and can incorporate significant ethnic features. Dr. Pugash will discuss with you your areas of concern and your surgical goals. The preoperative discussions may include a computer simulation to help develop the operative plan.

There are many techniques for rhinoplasty surgery. Dr. Pugash will review these with you, and suggest those that will give you the best result. Rhinoplasty is sometimes combined with other procedures such as chin augmentation to improve the overall result.

Rhinoplasty is usually done as an outpatient procedure. The surgery may involve removing a prominent hump, narrowing the nose, refining the tip, reducing the nostrils, and working inside the nose to improve breathing.

At the end of the operation a small splint is placed on the nose. Many patients will develop a good deal of swelling and bruising around the eyes. The splint is removed one week after surgery. Most of the bruising and swelling are gone by 2 to 2.5 weeks after surgery.

Possible complications of rhinoplasty surgery include reactions to the anesthetic, infection, bleeding, poor scarring, changes in skin colour, and a reduction in nasal breathing. Aesthetic complications are the most common: too much has been removed, or not enough, there are bumps, or the nose is not straight.

The final result of a rhinoplasty is often not apparent for a year or longer, as the skin and other soft tissues settle over the new bone and cartilage framework created by the surgeon.

Some patients will require revision, or a touch-up, to refine the result.

Dr. Pugash will provide complete care following your surgery so you remain comfortable, return quickly to all your usual activities, and obtain the best possible result.