Rhinoplasty Surgery Procedure Explained

Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a nose job, is the most commonly performed facial plastic surgery procedure. The procedure, the name of which comes from the Greek words 'rhino,' meaning 'nose,' and 'Plassein,' meaning 'to shape,' is generally performed to improve the appearance of the nose, to correct breathing problems, or for reconstructive purposes.

Originally developed by Sushruta, an Indian physician referred to as the "Father of Surgery," rhinoplasty was originally performed as early as 6th century BC. The original procedure, in which a disfigured nose is repaired using a flap of skin from the forehead, is still practiced today with minimal difference from the original technique. Performed by John Orlando Roe in 1887, the first intranasal procedure was first used for cosmetic purposes by Jacques Joshep in 1898.

Rhinoplasty can help improve a nose that is too wide, too crooked, too short, or too long. Bumps or humps on the nose can be removed. The size, shape, angle, and definition of the nose's tip can also be adjusted. Rhinoplasty can also repair a deviated septum, which can help correct breathing problems caused by such a condition. The procedure will help the patient to have a natural-appearing nose that is balanced to the remainder of the face and adds to the existing beauty of the eyes and lips. The procedure should not be performed until the patient's facial growth and development has completed; generally, that age is 15-16 years old for women and 16-17 years old for men.

If the strength or structure of the nose need strengthening, a small piece of the patients' own cartilage or bone may be used by the plastic surgeon for reinforcement. This may be necessary or helpful for breathing or other functional reasons, or for cosmetic purposes. Synthetic implants may also be used if there is no bone or cartilage to spare, or if the bone and cartilage are already weak or damaged.

After the procedure, a tape dressing will be applied and will cover the nose for one week. Some discoloration and/or swelling may occur around the eyes, but will subside within five to seven days. Most patients return to work and social activities in a week or so.