Beauty Doc Blog

September 08.08

A rhinoplasty can be a blessing after a disfiguring sports injury affecting the nose.  A variety of sports can cause nose injury requiring plastic surgery to regain the shape and appearance of the nose.

Rhinoplasty surgery, also referred to as nose surgery or a nose job, is performed to reshape the nose to improve its appearance.  One of the most frequently performed surgeries is rhinoplasty.  In 2005, there were 298,413 rhinoplasty surgeries done in the US.  After a disfiguring sports accident, a rhinoplasty can help patients regain their self-esteem as well as relieve related breathing problems.

The surgery can be done to increase or decrease the size of a person’s nose.  The shape of the bridge or tip of the nose can be changed.  The span of the nostrils may be narrowed and the angle between the nose and upper lip amended.  A rhinoplasty is an essential plastic surgery procedure for both health reasons and emotional well-being after a disfiguring sports injury.

Patients should choose an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon to perform rhinoplasty.  Prior to surgery, the patient meets with the plastic surgeon to discuss their medical history, physical issues and goals.  Reshaping the nose is an art form and patients should clearly communicate their desires.

During rhinoplasty, incisions are made at the base of the nose and inside the nostrils so the surgeon gains access to the underlying cartilage.  The cartilage is reshaped by the plastic surgeon to make the nose look more attractive.  Usually the procedure is done on the same day in an office or accredited medical facility.  Local or general anesthesia may be used so patients can get through the surgery.  Once reshaped, the nose is stitched and patients must return for a post-operative checkup and to have the stitches removed.

When the procedure is done, the nose is filled with packing material and a soft splint applied so the newly shaped nose maintains its shape.  Usually it takes anywhere from four to six weeks to completely heal from the procedure.  For the first two weeks, patients should avoid strenuous activity that increases blood pressure.  Eyeglasses may not be worn or must be taped to sit high up on the cheek.

A disfiguring sports injury can be emotionally and physically traumatizing.  Plastic surgery relieves patients by improving their physical appearance and giving them a healthy boost of self-confidence.