What Does the Process of Rhinoplasty Look Like?

Nose reshaping can either reduce the size of the nose (reduction rhinoplasty), or increase it (augmentation rhinoplasty). The operation can be performed from inside the nostrils, referred to as a closed rhinoplasty, or by making a small cut on the nose and elevating the skin, known as an open rhinoplasty.

Below, we explain how both reduction rhinoplasty and augmentation rhinoplasty work, and what you can expect during your procedure - from start to finish.

A Closer Look at the Process of Rhinoplasty

Before going under the knife, you must first understand the process of rhinoplasty to manage your expectations and to prepare yourself adequately. To help shape your predictions and expectations, the operation begins with an in-depth consultation with your surgeon, who will evaluate your medical history, discuss your desired outcomes, and advise you on the most appropriate surgical method.

Before the surgery, you'll undergo several tests, and possibly imaging studies. These will assess your nasal structure and identify any underlying health issues. You may need to stop certain medications, avoid alcohol, and refrain from smoking for a specific period leading up to the surgery.

On the day of the surgery, you'll be given either general or local anesthesia, based on the complexity of the operation and your doctor's recommendations. Then, the surgeon will proceed with either a closed or open rhinoplasty, as previously outlined. In both methods, the objective is to modify the bone, cartilage, or both to achieve the desired shape and size.

Understanding the healing process of rhinoplasty is equally crucial. The postoperative phase is marked by varying levels of discomfort, swelling and bruising, which typically diminish over time.

Rhinoplasty 1 Week vs 1 Month: What to Expect

The recovery process is gradual, with significant differences observed between the one-week and one-month marks post-surgery.

One Week After Rhinoplasty

In the first week following rhinoplasty, patients typically experience the most noticeable symptoms of recovery. Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes are common during this period. These symptoms are a normal part of the healing process as the body adjusts to the changes made during surgery.

Patients often report a feeling of stuffiness in the nose, which can be attributed to swelling inside the nasal passages. Pain is usually manageable with prescribed medication, and it's essential for patients to rest and avoid strenuous activities. Sleeping with the head elevated is recommended to reduce swelling.

It's also common for patients to have a splint placed on their nose to protect it and maintain its new shape. The splint is typically removed after about a week, depending on the surgeon's assessment.

One Month After Rhinoplasty

By the one-month mark, patients generally see a significant reduction in swelling and bruising. The shape of the nose starts to become more apparent, though it's important to note that final results can take up to a year to fully materialise.

Most patients feel comfortable returning to their normal daily activities, including work and light exercise, at this stage. However, activities that might risk an impact to the nose should still be avoided.

Residual swelling, particularly around the tip of the nose, can persist for several months. Patients must continue following their surgeon's advice regarding care and activity restrictions to ensure optimal healing.

Nasal breathing typically improves significantly by this time, as internal swelling subsides. Patients should still avoid wearing glasses or sunglasses that rest on the bridge of the nose to prevent indentations on the healing nasal tissues.

The recovery process after rhinoplasty is unique to each individual, influenced by factors such as the extent of the surgery, the patient's overall health, and adherence to post-operative care instructions. While the first week is characterised by more pronounced symptoms and restrictions, the one-month mark usually brings a noticeable improvement in appearance and comfort. However, patience is key, as the nose continues to heal and evolve over several months.

Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are essential to monitor the progress and address any concerns during the recovery phase. Full recovery can take up to a year, with subtle refinements continuing to manifest over this period. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon are advisable to monitor the healing process and make any necessary adjustments.

If you've had a rhinoplasty that has gone awry, then our team of solicitors can help you. With decades of experience in botched surgeries and cosmetic surgery negligence, we are well-equipped to assist you in making a rhinoplasty claim.

To find out if you have a claim for rhinoplasty compensation, get in touch with our specialist team of medical negligence solicitors. Call us today on 0808 256 1295, or request a call back by completing the contact form.

Is it Ok to Sneeze After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery is a cosmetic procedure that alters the structure and appearance of the nose. During the healing process, the nasal tissues are extremely delicate and nose surgery patients should avoid doing anything that could risk damage while they are healing. Some patients may wonder whether sneezing episodes could affect their surgical outcome and may want to understand how to mitigate these risks.

This blog will outline what the risks of sneezing are on rhinoplasty results, what the signs of damage are and the actions patients can take to ensure a smooth healing process after nose reshaping surgery.

Is it ok to sneeze after rhinoplasty?

Sneezing after a nose job can put strain on the delicate nasal tissues as they heal. While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing, taking precautions can help prevent complications. Forceful sneezing can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even changes in the results of the surgery. To minimise the impact, patients are advised to sneeze with their mouths open, which helps to reduce pressure on the nasal structures during sneezing.

During the initial weeks of recovery, the nose is particularly vulnerable. The internal structures are still settling, and any excessive force could disrupt healing. If sneezing becomes frequent due to allergies or irritants, consult a medical professional for advice on managing symptoms safely.

What advice should I follow when recovering from rhinoplasty?

Proper aftercare is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidance, which typically includes:

• Avoiding strenuous activities: heavy lifting, exercise and bending over can increase blood pressure and swelling.
• Keeping the head elevated: sleeping with the head propped up on pillows can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoiding nose blowing: forceful nose blowing can disrupt healing and lead to complications such as bleeding.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: proper nutrition supports tissue repair.
• Following medication instructions: any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics should be taken as directed to aid healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing glasses: given that glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, this can place pressure on the healing nasal structures that could affect the final surgical outcome. Surgeons may recommend that patients avoid glasses for a minimum of four to six weeks following surgery, opting for contact lenses where possible.

How do I know if I damaged my rhinoplasty because of sneezing?

If the nose experiences excessive force - whether from a sneeze or accidental impact - patients may be concerned about whether their rhinoplasty results have been affected. Signs of potential damage include:

• Sudden or increased swelling: some swelling is normal after surgery, but unexpected or prolonged swelling may indicate an issue.
• Persistent nasal pain: if discomfort worsens rather than improves, it could suggest internal irritation or damage to the nasal passages.
• Changes in nasal shape: any visible changes in symmetry or structure may be a sign that the healing process has been disrupted.
• Nasal bleeding: while minor spotting can occur, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If any of these signs appear, consult your surgeon promptly to assess whether additional care or adjustments are needed.

Recognising the signs of surgical complications

While sneezing can put strain on the healing nose and potentially affect rhinoplasty results, all cosmetic surgery carries some level of risk that could occur regardless if the patient sneezes or not. Rhinoplasty is no exception, and while complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur even when patients carefully follow post-operative care instructions.

Patients should be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a complication, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain: discomfort that does not improve or suddenly worsens could indicate an issue with healing.
• Excessive swelling that does not subside: while some swelling is expected, prolonged or severe swelling beyond what was discussed could be a sign of fluid retention or another complication.
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding: minor spotting is normal in the early stages, but ongoing or excessive bleeding should be assessed by a medical professional.
• Difficulty breathing: some nasal congestion is expected in the immediate aftermath of rhinoplasty, however, if nasal airflow becomes significantly obstructed or breathing issues continue beyond what was expected, it may indicate internal swelling or a structural issue.
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, unusual discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
• Visible changes in nasal shape: if the nose appears asymmetrical or changes unexpectedly, there may be a disruption in the healing process.

Understanding your surgeon's duty of care

Your surgeon has a legal and ethical duty of care to ensure that procedures like rhinoplasty are carried out safely and to a reasonable standard. This duty extends from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, your safety and wellbeing at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing full and accurate information: surgeons must explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of rhinoplasty, allowing patients to make an informed decision.
• Conducting thorough pre-surgical assessments: a surgeon must evaluate a patient’s medical history, overall health, and suitability for the procedure.
• Following best medical practices: during surgery, the surgeon must adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines to minimise risks and complications.
• Ensuring proper post-operative care: patients should receive clear aftercare instructions, access to follow-up appointments, and prompt support if complications arise.
• Acting in the patient’s best interests: surgeons should never pressure individuals into undergoing surgery and must ensure patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Finding help if your surgeon was negligent

Should you believe that your surgeon performed your rhinoplasty surgery negligently, experts in rhinoplasty surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will be able to help you make a claim for compensation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help you to understand your rights, compile evidence needed to build a case and secure compensation on your behalf.

Speak to our team today by calling 0808 231 6370 or using our online contact form.