Our Plastic Surgical Procedures

Corrective Nose Surgery

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  This operation is designed to improve the general cosmetic appearance of the patient by reducing, recontouring, or reshaping the external nose. It is frequently combined with an operation to improve the airway if any obstruction exists. (Submucous resection, SMR, septoplasty)

  There are many irregularities in a normal nose underneath the skin. These irregularities will persist even after a surgical procedure. It is unnatural for a nose to be exactly in the center of the face, normally, or after an operation. The nostrils of the nose are never exactly the same on each side, nor are they exactly the same shape. This irregularity will persist after a corrective operation. These facts are being pointed out as the patient is more critical of the appearance of his nose following surgery than he is before.

  Many patients have a fear that the nasal change will be so great as to create a subject of discussion among his or her friends and family. Psychologically, neither the patient nor the patient's friends and relatives really remember the shape of his or her nose a few weeks following such surgery.

  The cosmetic procedure of recontouring the nose is one of the most popular operations performed by plastic surgeons today. You must accept the judgement of the plastic surgeon as to the type, shape, and contour of the nose, as he is more acquainted with facial contour and what will suit each face best. Under no circumstances can you 'select a nose'. Such a selection by the inexperienced could result in a mismatch for his or her particular face.

  In rare instances, a secondary minor procedure may be done, at your surgeon's suggestion.

  HOSPITAL STAY: This is an outpatient procedure, usually performed at the Colorado Springs Surgery Center.

  ANESTHESIA: Local anesthesia, with sedation. General anesthesia may be employed, depending upon patient's preference.

  SURGICAL TIME: Approximately 2 hours.

  SURGICAL PROCEDURE: Most of the incisions for reducing or recontouring the external nose are made inside the nose. The nasal skin is lifted away from the cartilage and bone, and the excess tissue is removed. The cartilage of the tip of the nose may be changed if necessary. Frequently, the nose is shortened to adapt to the new contour. Such surgical procedures are necessary to reform the nose to the desired contour. The excessive skin left by the reduction of the underlying bone and cartilage is elastic and readapts itself to the framework. A small 1/4 inch incision is occasionally made between the brows. Small incisions may also be made where the nostrils touch the cheek. Where the septum obstructs breathing it will either be removed or recontoured to relieve any blockage. The nose is usually packed with gauze and taped and covered with an external plaster or plastic splint.

  COMPLICATIONS: If there are any minor complications, such as a mild postoperative bleeding of the nose, pain in excess of that controlled by pain pills, the surgeon should be contacted.

  SCARS: Most of the scars are on the inside of the nose and are invisible. If there are small external scars, they fade away in four to six weeks.

  SOCIAL ACTIVITY: Social activities should be limited for approximately ten days following surgery. Excessive exercise such as gym should be avoided for the same period. Body contact sports must be limited for four weeks. Any swimming, requiring submerging of the nose, should be avoided for four weeks.