Do you have trouble breathing through your nose when running at the Spartanburg High School track? If so, you may benefit from a rhinoplasty. Also known as a nose job, nose reshaping and nasal surgery, many people mistakenly believe that a rhinoplasty is only performed for cosmetic purposes. In fact, there are many functional reasons a nose job may be performed.
Types of Rhinoplasty
Some types of rhinoplasty that may be performed for functional purposes include the following:
- Nasal septoplasty straightens a deviated nasal septum, which is the wall between the nostrils.
- Inferior turbinate reduction addresses enlarged turbinates, which are bony, membrane-covered structures in the nose.
- Nasal valve repair strengthens or enlarges narrow places within the nose.
- Cartilage grafts strengthen and support the nose during rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty Consultation
Before getting the surgery, you’ll first have a consultation with your physician. During this consultation, they’ll review your:
- Skin type
- Ethnic background
- Age
- History of previous surgery or trauma
- History of nasal obstructions or breathing problems
They’ll also take photos, discuss your goals for surgery and explain reasonable outcomes.
Rhinoplasty Procedure
Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure that can be performed in our clinic.
Your surgeon will administer either local or general anesthesia so that you’re comfortable. Once you’re under, the surgeon will make an incision under the nose and several incisions inside the nose. They’ll then use a scalpel to remove excess cartilage and an osteotome to shape the bone.
After surgery, they’ll place a small splint on the nose to keep the new structure stable and supported. They’ll also pack the inside of the nose to prevent bleeding and drainage.
Rhinoplasty Recovery
You should plan to take a week off from work to rest, ice and heal. Full recovery may take up to a year, though most of the swelling will go down after about a month.
While recovering, you should follow all your doctor’s instructions, including:
- Keeping your head elevated while sleeping for at least three days.
- Avoiding blowing your nose for two to three weeks.
- Resting and avoiding exertion.
- Staying out of the sun.
- Contacting your doctor if you suspect an infection.
For more information or to schedule an appointment, call Spartanburg | Greer ENT & Allergy today.
