Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is performed with the patient comfortably sedated under total intravenous anaesthesia (TIVA). Depending on your specific requirements and aesthetic goals, the surgeon may undertake any of the following techniques:

• Nose Reduction: This technique involves making the nose smaller by carefully removing portions of cartilage and bone. This process often includes delicately reshaping the bridge of the nose through rasping and precisely adjusting the nasal bones where they connect with the facial structure. It's important to note that the skin covering the nostrils tends to have less flexibility for contraction compared to the rest of the nose. In some cases, there may be a need to reduce the base of the nostrils or adjust the nasal floor by skillfully removing a small wedge of tissue.
• Nose Reshaping: This approach focuses on altering the overall shape of the nose by reconfiguring or augmenting the underlying cartilaginous and bony framework. The surgeon employs their expertise to create the desired contour and aesthetics.
• Nose Proportions: Rhinoplasty can also involve adjusting the angle between the nose and the upper lip, refining the overall facial balance and harmony.

These procedures are conducted with meticulous precision and an artistic touch to achieve the desired results while preserving both form and function. Your surgeon will work closely with you to determine the most suitable approach based on your unique goals and facial anatomy.

Contrary to popular expectations, rhinoplasty is associated with minimal pain following the surgery. Although you may experience some discomfort in the immediate aftermath of the procedure, it's important to note that any pain levels are generally quite low. 

You might also encounter common symptoms such as a temporarily blocked nose, which are typical during the early stages of recovery.

We typically recommend taking at least one week off work for our Rhinoplasty patients.  During this period, you will be wearing a splint, which may be in place for up to ten days. However, it's important to note that working from home is entirely feasible and encouraged during this time.

You may experience some mild bleeding from the nostrils, especially overnight or for a bit longer if specific treatments were performed on the septum or turbinates. Expect some temporary swelling and bruising below the eyes, particularly if the nasal bones are fractured. This is a normal part of the healing process and typically subsides within the ten-day timeframe.

As part of your recovery, we advise avoiding strenuous exercise for a minimum of two weeks following the surgery. This precaution helps ensure a smooth and successful healing process, allowing your body to recover comfortably and effectively. 

The choice of sutures or stitches during your rhinoplasty procedure is determined by the specific surgical technique employed and your surgeon's preferences. Some sutures are designed to be soluble, meaning they will gradually dissolve and be naturally absorbed by your body over time. Others may need to be removed by your surgeon after a prescribed period.

It is critically important to adhere to your surgeon's guidelines regarding suture care and removal. Keeping the surgical site clean and avoiding activities that could place stress on the sutures or trigger bleeding is crucial for a smooth and complication-free recovery process. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions tailored to your specific case, ensuring the best possible outcome.

Exercising after a rhinoplasty procedure requires caution and adherence to your surgeon's recommendations. Your surgeon will guide you when it is safe to resume physical activity.

Vigorous exercises such as running, weightlifting, or engaging in contact sports should be avoided for a minimum of two to three weeks post-surgery. This extended rest period allows ample time for the surgical site to heal and for swelling to diminish.

To reintroduce exercise into your daily routine, consider activities like walking or gentle stretching. These exercises promote circulation and can expedite the healing process while minimising strain on the surgical area.

It is imperative to follow your surgeon's instructions diligently. If you have any questions or concerns about resuming physical activity, always consult with your surgeon before doing so.

The recovery process after rhinoplasty involves two aspects: the time it takes to resume full normal activities and the duration it takes for the nose to reach its final state. It's essential to note that there is a considerable difference in time between these two phases, and individual experiences may vary.

Many patients are pleasantly surprised to find that rhinoplasty is virtually painless. We employ Total IntraVenous Anaesthesia (TIVA), ensuring a rapid and comfortable awakening from the procedure, without postoperative nausea. You'll typically be ready to return home within an hour or two after surgery.

Expect some initial bleeding from the nostrils, which will be managed with a gauze dressing placed under the nose. The dressing will be changed as needed by the nurse during your hospital stay and later by yourself at home. Bleeding usually stops by the following morning, replaced by a clear ooze that may coagulate around the nostrils and internal sutures. Simply cleanse the exterior with tap water, as the inside is not a concern. At your one-week follow-up, the nurse will address any remaining issues, including the removal of skin sutures, as internal sutures dissolve naturally.

Some patients may experience bruising around the eyes, though it is not typically painful. Bruising appears quickly after surgery but also resolves quickly. By the tenth day, most remnants of bruising beneath the eyes should have faded.

In cases where nasal bones have been fractured, a plastic or plaster of Paris splint is usually placed over the nose. This splint is typically removed within six to 10 days, marking a significant moment in your recovery. However, it's important to note that at this stage, the nose will still be swollen and lack definition. Particularly, the tip may appear largely unchanged. The final shape of the nose will take approximately six to 12 months to fully settle. You will have a better sense of this when the skin feels normal, and any stiffness has dissipated. Patience is key during this period.

Post-surgery, you are not unwell but may have some visible signs of healing, such as minor bruising and the presence of a splint. While strenuous exercise should be avoided for a couple of weeks, you can typically resume most other activities. The splint is similar to what one might wear after a broken nose.

Securing NHS coverage for rhinoplasty is a rarity, as this procedure is typically categorised as cosmetic surgery. In exceptional cases, NHS funding for rhinoplasty may be considered if it can be firmly established that the surgery is medically necessary, but such instances are exceedingly uncommon.

Before committing to your rhinoplasty journey, it is important to select a surgeon who possesses the experience and qualifications for this specialised procedure. An accomplished surgeon should be able to explain the surgery, including detailed insights into the procedure itself, the recovery period, and any potential risks or complications. They should also candidly address your expectations and potential outcomes.

Prior to making your choice, verify that the surgeon is a recognised specialist in rhinoplasty. During your initial consultation, ensure that the surgeon can present an extensive portfolio featuring before and after photographs of rhinoplasty procedures they have performed. This visual representation will provide you with a clear sense of the anticipated results. Additionally, seek out testimonials from previous patients to gauge their satisfaction with the surgeon's work.

A reputable rhinoplasty surgeon prioritises the achievement of natural-looking results and places the patient's overall well-being, both physical and psychological, at the forefront of their considerations. It's important to note that an ethical surgeon will decline to perform the procedure if you are not in optimal physical and psychological health.

Lastly, confirm that your chosen rhinoplasty surgeon is registered with the General Medical Council (GMC) in the relevant field, such as otolaryngology (head and neck surgery), plastic surgery, or maxillofacial surgery. This certification ensures that you are consulting with a true expert in the field.

Although Rhinoplasty primarily targets the nose itself, it can indirectly impact nearby structures, particularly the vocal cords. Modifications to the nasal passages and throat swelling following surgery can lead to temporary voice changes, such as hoarseness or a nasal quality to the voice. However, these alterations are typically short-lived and tend to dissipate within a few weeks as post-surgery swelling diminishes.

In rare cases, more extensive alterations to the nasal passageways or changes in the cartilage supporting the vocal cords may result in permanent voice changes. It is essential to communicate any voice-related concerns with your surgeon before undergoing the procedure. This discussion will help ensure that you have a comprehensive understanding of the potential impacts of rhinoplasty on your voice.

In cases where a deviated septum, which is a condition where the partition between the nostrils is bent or crooked, is the root cause of sleep apnea, a septoplasty procedure can be performed to alleviate the condition. This surgical intervention aims to open up the nasal airways and enhance breathing.

However, it's essential to understand that not all instances of sleep apnea are linked to nasal structural abnormalities, and rhinoplasty alone may not be sufficient to address the condition. To receive an accurate diagnosis and tailored treatment plan, individuals experiencing sleep apnea should consult with a sleep specialist or pulmonologist. These experts can assess the underlying causes of the condition and recommend appropriate interventions, which may include septoplasty or other treatments.

Rhinoplasty and Septoplasty are distinct surgical procedures that target different issues within the nasal region.

Rhinoplasty is a surgical intervention used to achieve nose reshaping or nose reduction. This can involve resizing the nose, reshaping the tip, or narrowing the nostrils. Rhinoplasty primarily focuses on altering the aesthetics of the nose.

Septoplasty is a standalone surgical procedure designed to correct a deviated septum. A deviated septum occurs when the wall separating the nostrils is curved or misaligned, potentially leading to breathing difficulties and recurring sinus infections. Septoplasty aims to straighten the septum and improve nasal function.

These two procedures can be combined to address both cosmetic and functional concerns as a Septorhinoplasty. It's essential to have a thorough discussion with your surgeon to determine which procedure, or combination of procedures, is most suitable for your specific needs and goals. 

When performing a Rhinoplasty procedure or nose reduction surgery, the goal is to achieve facial harmony and balance rather than making dramatic alterations to the face. The nose is a central and prominent feature, and changes to its size, shape, or proportions can impact the overall appearance of the face.

An experienced surgeon takes into account the unique facial proportions of each patient. They analyse the patient's facial structure, including the size and shape of the eyes, lips, chin, and other features. This analysis helps create a rhinoplasty plan that complements the patient's existing facial aesthetics. They will also consider your age, skin type, and ethnicity. Realistic expectations for the procedure's results are also essential. 

When you are researching how much is a Rhinoplasty you may find that Rhinoplasty London prices are more expensive than Rhinoplasty UK prices, with nose reshaping surgery cost in London being around 10-15% higher than Rhinoplasty cost in other parts of the UK.

There are several reasons why nose reshaping cost in London are typically more expensive than Rhinoplasty cost UK, including:

• Many of the UK’s best surgeons choosing to work in the capital, and London also attracts surgeons from all over the world. This means that London has access to the highest calibre of surgeons, and the very best talent  
• The highest quality surgeons wish to work in the best facilities possible. These hospitals offer the best standards of care and also have access to state-of-the-art technology to deliver the most cutting edge techniques and procedures   
• Top level surgeons want to work with facilities which provide the best quality, the safest standards and the most comprehensive aftercare for their patients.   
• The best talent plus the best facilities and the best aftercare protocol leads to better surgical outcomes and a much lower risk of complications, for which a premium is typically paid leading to higher nose operation cost
• Costs of goods and services in London, generally tend to be higher than the rest of the country.