Rhinoplasty

A rhinoplasty is a procedure which aims to modify the structure of the nose in order to achieve an improvement in its shape, and in order to obtain better harmony between the nose and the rest of the face. Since there is no universal type of nose, the procedure must be tailored to the specific requirements of each patient: augment or reduce the size of the nose, raise the tip or reduce its width, modify the alar rims, etc.

What if I have breathing problems?

In those cases in which besides the altered external appearance of the nose, there are also associated breathing problems, it may be necessary to modify the shape of the septum or to operate on the turbinates in order to improve breathing. The term used for this type of procedure is rhinoseptoplasty.

What is the best age to undergo a rhinoplasty?

Generally, the procedure is performed after the age of 16, when the nasal bones have completely finalized their growth.

The procedure

In the so-called closed rhinoplasty, the procedure is performed “blindly” with incisions carried-out inside the nose, leaving no external scars. When a more precise modeling of the nasal tip is necessary, an open rhinoplasty provides improved visibility of the nasal structures. In this case, a small scar is left under the nasal tip in the collumela. Dr. Bravo has developed a new procedure, which merges both of these techniques into one. The Closed-Open Rhinoplasty with Extended Lip Dissection (CORELD), allows an approach to the nasal framework through less visible scars under the nose, which are placed in the nasal base and which allow access to the osteocartilaginous framework of the nose from behind the upper lip. In this manner, the controversial collumelar incision may be avoided.

How is the recovery?

After the surgery, both an external and internal splint will be left in place for one week. The recovery is generally not painful although swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose are common and usually resolve gradually in the first couple of weeks. Nevertheless, mild swelling of the nose may persist for several weeks after a rhinoplasty, which does not normally delay the patient´s return to a normal lifestyle after the first or second week post-op.