Nasal Surgery (Rhinoplasty)
Rhinoplasty is among the most common plastic surgery procedures. The appearance of the nose may be enhanced by increasing or reducing its size; modifying the size or shape of the nostrils, tip, or bridge of the nose; or by altering the slope or angle of the nose. Rhinoplasty may also be performed to correct an injury or birth defect, or to improve breathing.
Rhinoplasty may be performed under local or general anesthesia in an outpatient operating room setting. Incisions are hidden inside the nose and sometimes at its base to allow restructuring and shaping of the framework underneath. The skin is then allowed to re-drape over the new structure, and a small nasal splint is applied to help the nose maintain its new form. Dr. Clymer rarely places any packing in the nose after rhinoplasty.
Following surgery, bruising, swelling and discomfort can be expected for a few days. This is treated with cold compresses and medication prescribed by Dr. Clymer. Most bruising is gone in 10-14 days. Makeup may be applied as soon as the splint is removed, usually around seven days after surgery. Most patients are back to work or other non-strenuous activities in a week or two, with resumption of exercise around the two-week point after surgery.
