What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is an operation to improve the appearance and shape of the nose. It can be performed after injury to the nose, but mostly it is undertaken for aesthetic improvement. Sometimes it is combined with surgery to the inside of the nose to improve both nasal breathing and appearance when it is called septorhinoplasty.
What can be done in rhinoplasty?
The aim of surgery is to provide a lifelong improvement to the appearance of the nose. This might involve straightening the nose, reducing it’s size in relation to the face, removing a bump on the top of the nose, refining the nasal tip, narrowing the nose or making it more symmetrical. The end result is to provide a balanced and elegant nose that suits the patient.
Should I have rhinoplasty?
This is not always an easy decision, but if you are considering such a procedure, talk to a qualified and recognised rhinoplasty or nose surgeon where you can consider what needs to be done and ask your questions. Your surgeon will offer to take pictures at consultation and these can be digitally modified to provide an idea of what rhinoplasty can do for you.
How much does rhinoplasty cost?
This varies according to several factors but is in the region of £4500-5500. You should ensure your surgeon has the appropriate experience and qualifications. Occasionally the nose after a rhinoplasty operation requires further surgery. For most Hospitals this second procedure is included in the initial price, so no further charge is incurred (as long as this occurs within a year of the original operation).
What happens during rhinoplasty?
The operation Is performed under a general anaesthesia, so you are fully asleep while your nose is reshaped. The whole procedure takes from 1.5 to 3 hours depending on what needs to be done. During this time the nose is reshaped by modifying the cartilage and bone that form the structure of the nose. In addition, cartilage grafts or natural fillers for support and shape may be used.
What’s the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
In a closed rhinoplasty, all the incisions are hidden inside the nose. This has the advantage that there are no scars, but limits what can be done. In an open rhinoplasty, a small cut is placed beneath the nose in between the nostrils. This is undertaken when tip surgery or more extensive surgery is needed.
What happens after surgery?
The nose takes a long time to fully heal. Bruising around the nose and eyes is sometimes noticeable and mostly settles by two weeks. The nose can become very blocked, providing the feeling of a cold and sometimes this interferes with sleep, although it starts to unblock in the first week or two. The nose is sore after surgery, but this is tolerable and postoperative pain relief is provided on returning home.
What should I do after surgery?
Whilst you will be fully mobile you are advised to rest and relax. Avoid getting the nose wet and eat well and sleep well. Moderate and vigorous exercise needs to be avoided for 4 weeks and contact sports for 3 to 6 months. Flying is best left for 3-4 weeks. Do not use glasses after the operation to allow the nasal bridge to heal.
When do I see my surgeon?
An appointment is made for one week after surgery. The nasal cast is removed at this point. The nose is cleaned and postoperative progress is discussed. A further appointment is booked for 2 – 3 months after surgery.
What can I expect?
The nose takes a long time to fully heal. About 60-70% of the final shape is present at 8 – 12 weeks; 90% at 3 – 6 months and the final 10% may take up to a year or occasionally longer. If further surgery is required, then your surgeon will mostly wait until 6 – 12 months after your surgery to ensure the nose has fully recovered. You should expect a nice nose that fits with your surrounding facial features.
PINNAPLASTY
WHAT IS PINNAPLASTY?
Pinnaplasty, sometimes called otoplasty, is the operation to reposition and reshape ears, the part that sticks out from the side of the head (the pinna). Sometimes this occurs after injury, but usually the problem is present from the time of birth. Surgery usually is requested in children and young adults but can be done at any age.
WHAT CAN BE DONE IN PINNAPLASTY?
The pinna is made of cartilage, covered by skin and in prominent ears there is a failure of the cartilage to properly fold and sometimes there is too much cartilage so the ears become more noticeable. The operation shapes the ear by reforming the antihelical fold and removing excess cartilage, so the ears set back to the side of the head in an acceptable position.
SHOULD I HAVE PINNAPLASTY?
There are many reasons to have pinnaplasty. This may be an aesthetic concern, or personal issues at school, or even difficulties wearing protective headgear. Patients have usually thought long and hard about having the operation, but if there are questions or concerns please book an appointment to find out more about what needs to be done.
HOW MUCH DOES PINNAPLASTY COST?
Pinnaplasty costs approximately £4000-4500 and prices vary depending on several factors. This amount includes your photographs along with pre and postoperative consultations, preassessment for surgery and any necessary tests Occasionally further revision work may need to be done, however, this does not incur further charges, as long as the repeat surgery takes place within a year of the original procedure
WHAT HAPPENS DURING PINNAPLASTY?
The operation can be performed under local or general anaesthesia. A small cut is made behind the ear and the misshapen ear cartilage is sculpted into its new position using clear stitches hidden under the skin. At the end of the procedure, a head bandage is applied. Most patients go home the same day. There is some pain, which is easily controlled by painkillers and the patient is discharged home with analgesia and relevant medications.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER SURGERY?
Most patients are discharged home, 4 – 6 hours after pinnaplasty. A contact number is provided in case of problems, and first review takes place 7 days afterwards. At this time the head bandage is taken off, however, as the stitches are dissolvable, these do not need to be removed. A final appointment takes place 8 – 12 weeks after surgery.
WHAT SHOULD I DO AFTER SURGERY?
Whilst you will be fully mobile you are advised to rest and relax. Avoid getting the head bandage wet and eat and sleep well. The patient is advised to wear a headband at night only, to protect the ears, for the next 4 weeks. Hair can be washed as soon as the initial head dressing is removed, but serious exercise should be avoided for 4 weeks and contact sports for 3 – 6 months. There is some initial mild bruising, which settles quickly. Patients are recommended to take at least a week away from their daily routine.
WHAT HAPPENS DURING PINNAPLASTY?WHAT CAN I EXPECT?
The ears are generally stiff and numb for some weeks after surgery, although this can occasionally last for a few months. Swelling is barely noticeable and the recently positioned ears settle quickly into their new position. If there are any concerns during this time please contact Mr Mike O’Connell. Pinnaplasty is a procedure that provides good results.
Our happy patients
"I was so uneasy beforehand but with all your reassurance and help you made me feel at ease."
"You’re a star! I am so happy with my new nose, thanks a million."
"My breathing and also the appearance of my nose have vastly improved."
"Thank you so much for all the hard work you have done for me. I am so happy with my new nose."
"What can I say but a huge thank you for my new nose! I am ecstatic, delighted and happy for everything you did for me."
"Thank you with all my heart for giving me a beautiful nose. I have waited a lifetime to feel confident about myself."
"Thank you for giving me a new nose. I am so happy."
Want to find out more?
Speak to Mr Mike O’Connell’s team today to talk about your wishes and how he can help you