Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a nose job, is a popular cosmetic procedure aimed at reshaping the nose. Rhinoplasty in Mumbai can enhance facial appearance or correct medical issues that affect breathing, such as a deviated septum, nasal obstruction, or injuries like a broken nose. Both cosmetic and functional needs are addressed through this procedure, making it one of the most sought-after plastic surgeries worldwide.
Who Can Benefit from Rhinoplasty?
People may choose rhinoplasty for various reasons:
- Correcting congenital nasal abnormalities present from birth.
- Improving facial harmony and overall appearance.
- Opening blocked nasal passages to enhance breathing.
- Repairing trauma-related injuries, including facial fractures.
- Restoring nasal function after disease, cancer treatments, or burns.
Ideal candidates are adults who have completed facial growth, are in good physical health, do not smoke, and have realistic expectations. Importantly, patients should pursue surgery for personal reasons rather than external pressure.
Types of Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty can take multiple forms:
- Cosmetic rhinoplasty: Concentrates on improving the appearance of the nose.
- Functional rhinoplasty: Restores breathing function and corrects structural defects.
- Nonsurgical rhinoplasty: Uses dermal fillers for temporary reshaping, ideal for small bumps or lifting a drooping nasal tip.
- Secondary rhinoplasty: Corrects issues from a previous surgery, which can be more complex.
Surgical approaches include:
- Open rhinoplasty: Involves external incisions, giving the surgeon a clear view for significant reshaping.
- Closed rhinoplasty: Incisions are made inside the nostrils for less invasive changes.
Rhinoplasty vs. Septoplasty
While rhinoplasty improves the nose’s appearance and overall structure, septoplasty specifically addresses internal issues with the nasal septum to improve breathing. Both procedures can be combined to enhance both function and aesthetics.
The Procedure and Recovery
Before surgery, patients consult with their surgeon to discuss goals, examine facial features, and review surgical options. Rhinoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure, performed under general or local anaesthesia with sedation, lasting 1–3 hours. Surgeons reshape the bone and cartilage, reposition the skin, and use small stitches to secure the new structure.
Post-surgery, a splint may be worn for 1–2 weeks, and swelling or bruising around the nose and eyes is common. Swelling is most noticeable in the first month, decreases over three months, and may persist subtly for up to a year. Mild discomfort is typical and manageable with over-the-counter pain medications. Asymmetrical healing, where one side appears different from the other, is normal during recovery.
Risks and Benefits
Benefits include improved facial symmetry, better breathing, and correction of structural issues. Risks can include infection, scarring, nosebleeds, changes in smell, or unsatisfactory cosmetic results that might require revision surgery.
Long-Term Results
Full recovery can take up to a year, with most functional improvements seen within six weeks. Patients can usually return to work in 1–2 weeks and resume light exercise after 4–6 weeks. Rhinoplasty results are permanent, though some may choose a secondary surgery to refine cosmetic outcomes.
When to Seek Medical Attention
Contact your doctor if you experience severe pain, uncontrolled bleeding, breathing difficulties, signs of infection, or persistent nausea after surgery.
