Before Surgery

A thorough nasal examination will be performed externally and internally to gain knowledge of the anatomy of the area. Any associated medical problems such as diabetes and hypertension must be under control. All blood thinning medication such as aspirin, coumadin, Motrin, plavix, Xarelto (Rivaroxaban) should be stopped 10 days prior to the procedure. Also, patients should abstain from alcohol and tobacco before and after the procedure. These substances are known to retard post-surgical healing.

Where is rhinoplasty done in our practice?

In our private, safe and fully equipped surgery facilities at any of our four Chicago and Chicago and suburban offices. Our surgery facilities are equipped with the latest technological advanced instruments.

Before surgery several markings are placed on the skin of the nose to mark important landmarks for the procedure. Next, local anesthetic is injected internally and externally to fully anesthetize the area and reduce bleeding. Small, inconspicuous incisions are made, which allows the surgeon access to the discussed problem areas. Then the previously discussed changes are made, which usually include removing excess septal cartilage or adding to areas where additional fullness is needed. The bony framework may also be narrowed to produce a thinner, more contoured nose. Thin, dissolving sutures are used to close the incisions.

Which parts of the nose will be operated on?

The nose is composed of bones, cartilage, soft tissue and of course the skin. Depending what the surgery is aiming to accomplish, all these anatomical entities may be surgically altered and aesthetically refined.

Where are there incisions placed?

Incisions are generally placed inside the nose so that they are not seen or sometimes a very small incision is placed under the nose, which is inconspicuous when healed.

How much time does a rhinoplasty take?

Normally about one to two hours.

What type of anesthesia is used during a rhinoplasty?

Typically general anesthesia is used, but in some cases we can use a local anesthetic.

After Surgery

Rest, no exertion, sleep with head elevated for few days. Aspirin and smoking strongly discouraged. Keep the the nasal splint clean and dry and apply cold compresses to forehead and cheek area for 48 hours post-surgery. A light pad may need to be worn under the nose for one to two days after the procedure if there is slight .

When can I resume normal activities after a rhinoplasty?

Typically after a couple days. However, strenuous physical activities, especially those that allow for any type of contact, should be avoided for several weeks.

How much downtime should be expected after a rhinoplasty?

Normally, plan on two to three days for initial recovery. Then allow for about seven to 10 days for the bruising to clear. Makeup should not be worn until the bruising has completely disappeared. Glasses can be worn under bridge of the nose after few weeks. Residual swelling, especially at the tip of the nose, may linger for a while and depending on the quality of your soft tissue in your skin, the final results are usually seen after six to 12 months.

How long will the results of the rhinoplasty last?

Typically, results from surgical procedures will last a lifetime, barring significant changes to body type (ie severe weight loss or weight gain). Office procedures like fillers and skin care require periodic maintenance.