Rhinoplasty is an artistic form of plastic surgery used to reshape an individual’s nose into a form they desire. However, despite some people citing that it is solely used as a vehicle for vanity and the exploitation of social stereotypes there are medical reasons for it in many instances. A terrible accident or injury may require an individual to undergo reconstruction. Some individuals may prefer a profession wherein their physical appearance is important. Actor’s models, and similar highly visual professions often call for perfection. There are also birth defects, and other issues such as having a deviated septum that often are cause for this branch of medical science to be utilized.
When the septum, for instance, is deviated it can cause chronic sinus issues and impede airflow. To correct this there is a procedure known as septoplasty sometimes called septorhinoplasty. The two terms are synonymous with each other, however some surgeons will cite the latter of the two as being a surgery wherein correcting the septum is only part of the procedure as the rest of the nose will be reshaped as well.
Septorhinoplasty is performed via the open technique of rhinoplasty. This technique involves cutting the columnella, a small partition of skin between the nostrils, and lifting the external skin of the nose up to expose the nasal cavity. The cosmetic surgeon then proceeds to excise the deviated portion of the septum until it is dead center of the nose. In some instances this will be followed by implantation of cartilage taken from the patient’s body in another location, such as the ears or the ribs, or surgical grade plastic can be used. This is done to support the septum and maintain nasal stability.
Following the septoplasty portion of septorhinoplasty the surgeon will perform the rest of the changes that were discussed prior to the operation. Typical side effects of this plastic surgery include swelling, bruising, and numbness at the tip of the nose. There can be stiffness in the nose as well that is far more permanent than the other side effects. Complete recovery time for this operation barring serious complications is normally two weeks. You can find out more on www.rhinoplasty.org.uk