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Frequently Asked Questions
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What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is the clinical terminology for cosmetic
reshaping of the nose by changing the size, shape or overall appearance.
Rhinoplasty is one of the most common procedures performed to enhance this
central facial feature, thereby improving the patient's appearance
offering increased confidence and self-esteem.
Occasionally patient's also require correction of
functional aspects of the nose, such as deviated septum or other airway
obstructions. These reconstructive procedures can be corrected along
with the aesthetic improvements for a single combined procedure.
Who is the best candidate for Rhinoplasty?
The best candidate for rhinoplasty is a person
seeking improvement, not perfection, in the appearance of the nose.
If you are physically healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in
your expectations, you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty.
Overview of Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is generally performed on an out-patient
basis with intravenous sedation. The procedure is usually completed
within approximately three to four hours.
There are two approaches to performing rhinoplasty,
open or closed. A closed rhinoplasty is performed by making small
incisions inside the nose. An open rhinoplasty is performed by making small
incision on the columella (the small piece of tissue between the nostrils)
and inside the nose.
In either case, the immediate post-operative
recovery time is approximately seven to ten days. The final result
cannot be judged until one year from the procedure.
What can I expect from surgery?
Rhinoplasty is a same day procedure that takes a few
hours. Conscious sedation and sometimes general anesthesia is
employed so that there is no discomfort during the procedure. A
person undergoing rhinoplasty may go home the same day to the comfort of
his/her own home. Dr. Gruber often sees the patient the next day.
A light splint is worn on the nose for protection and to minimize
swelling. Surprisingly, there is little pain following rhinoplasty,
still pain relievers are made available.
At about day five to seven day, the splint is
removed. Over the next several weeks minor swelling continues to
subside and the nose begins to feel more natural. In time, the nose
should look and feel like the person was born with that nose, not that the
person had a "nose job". The goal that Dr. Gruber seeks is a natural
looking nose that fits the face and does not look like it had surgery
performed upon it.
Patient Expectations
Rhinoplasty results are permanent, and scars, if
any, are minimal and inconspicuous. Most patients return to work
after seven to ten days and physical activity should be kept to a minimum
for the first three weeks. It is important to keep in mind that
minor swelling can persist for several months following surgery and that
final results may not be seen for up to one year. Patience and
realistic expectations are important during this time.
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