Rhinoplasty

Your nose consists of a complex and interconnected structure of bone, cartilage and soft tissue. Malalignment of the nasal structure can result not only in someone being unhappy with the shape of their nose but also bothered by nasal blockage, snoring, sinus problems or difficulty smelling. Appearance therefore, should never be separated from function.

Rhinoplasty is one of the oldest recorded operations, the first reports being from 3000 years ago. Today, it is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic operations and has been shown to be associated with very high patient satisfaction levels.

There are two main types of rhinoplasty: closed (where the incisions are made inside the nostril), and open (where a small incision is made at the base of the nose).

Rhinoplasty may also be combined with other operations to improve breathing such as a septoplasty (straightening the internal nasal cartilage).

The aim of any rhinoplasty should be to restore facial balance as appropriate to the individual, whilst maintaining or improving nasal function. Following surgery, your nose should look natural and not ‘operated on’ and to achieve your desired outcome it is vital to have crystal clear communication with your surgeon. This may take more than one pre-operative visit.

During these pre-operative visits, you will undergo a thorough examination and have some photographs taken. You will also have ample opportunity to ask any questions.

Following surgery, you will usually need to be reviewed after a week to remove your nasal plaster and check healing. Another appointment is then made about 2 months later, by which time most of the post-operative swelling will have subsided.

If your enquiry relates to any cosmetic surgery, AHPRA now states your referral needs to state this specifically. Your referral cannot be from a GP who also provides cosmetic services of any kind. There may be other relevant AHPRA regulations that will be discussed with you in greater detail at your appointment.