hinoplasty corrects deformities of the nose. The surgeon reshapes and rearranges bone or cartilage, removing any excess. Most surgery for the nose is performed in the hospital and patients go home the same day. The average patient returns to work about one week later. Actual surgery takes about one to three hours, depending on the specific needs of the patient.

Rhinoplasties are usually performed quite simply, because people want to look better. They would like the shape and size of their nose to be in harmony with the rest of their features. Sometimes, people like models and performers are motivated by economic or career considerations. There are also many cases in which breathing difficulty occurs as the nose becomes progressively more disfigured because of aging. Some patients also have deformities inside the nose that impair breathing, cause headaches, or create sinus trouble which cannot be satisfactorily corrected without simultaneously straightening the external nose.

Photographs are taken to supplement the "before and after" record of the nose and face. These photos are used in planning the operation, much the same way that an architect plans a house.

The objective is not only to improve the shape of the nose, but also the appearance of the entire face. Sketches are frequently drawn on photos of the general type of nose that the surgeon will try to obtain.

Following surgery, a white plastic splint is applied to the nose. Packing inside the nose is rarely used. Upon discharge, patients receive easy-to-follow instructions for home care.

The dressing on the nose is removed at the office about five days later. When dressings are first removed, the nose usually appears somewhat swollen, compared to how the final result will look. Patients who expect to see a perfectly shaped nose right away must be careful not to become disappointed. After three or four days, the nose begins to approximate its eventual shape, and the average acquaintance would probably not notice any swelling.

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