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Nose Surgery Facts: The Surgery

Here’s the nitty-gritty details about the rhinoplasty surgery itself. Rhinoplasty surgeons employ a variety of approaches based on your desired results and unique characteristics. Two types of anesthesia options can be used to sedate you and make sure you are comfortable. For minor adjustment to nose local anesthesia can be used. This involves applying a numbing medication directly into your nose. It’s very similar to getting stiches or a dental filling: You won’t be able to feel pain when the procedure is taking place, but you will have some sensation and pressure.

This anesthesia type is not used for nose surgeries that involve bone grafting or larger changes to the nose. The other type of anesthesia option is general anesthesia. When general anesthesia is used, you to experience a temporary state of unconsciousness, meaning you will not be aware the surgery is taking place, you will be “asleep.”

Once anesthesia is in place, the plastic surgeon will make cuts in your nostril to separate the skin and cartilage in your nose from the bone. Afterwards skin, cartilage and bond can be trimmed, adjust or shave pieces of your nose to shape it according to your desired result. If your nose job involves using a tip for enhancement, an implant or graft pieces of bone can be place onto your nose. Occasionally cartilage from your ear or nostril can be used to enhance your nose.

Because nose surgeries are typically an outpatient procedure, most people can go home once their anesthesia has worn off.  At discharge you will receive detailed instructions for proper recovery at home. Be sure to listen to your physician closely to ensure you are following instructions for optimal recovery. You can expect a degree of pain, swelling, bleeding and discomfort following any kind of nose surgery. A special type of splint will go over some gauze to protect and support your nose after the surgery. Ice packs, taking over-the-counter pain-relieving medications, such as ibuprofen, and resting will help minimized discomfort, swelling and pain.

For more information regarding rhinoplasty in Newport Beach, schedule a consultation with Dr. Ali Sajjadian, one of Newport Beach and Orange County’s best Rhinoplasty practices!