If your nose is either out of proportion in relation to the rest of your face or structural problems are causing you breathing problems, a nose surgery procedure by University of Florida surgeons in Gainesville can help resolve your problem.
You may be wondering how the procedure works. Continue reading to learn step-by-step the rhinoplasty procedure at our Florida center.
Initial consultation and planning
The first thing you will need to do to is consult with a board-certified plastic surgeon to discuss your problem and possible solutions. Surgeons will ask you several questions about your medical history along with goals and expectations. It’s important you be completely candid with them to ensure your rhinoplasty goes as smoothly as possible.
Surgeons will also take photographs of your nose area as well as choose the actual techniques/incision patterns they will use.
Finally, be prepared to discuss what you will need to do in anticipation of the procedure.
Administration of anesthesia
Surgeons choose between intravenous sedation and general anesthesia and determine this during your initial consultation. DO NOT EAT BEFORE YOUR PROCEDURE AND FOLLOW ALL INSTRUCTIONS FROM YOUR SURGEON
Anesthesia is one of the most critical components of any surgical procedure. Your body will think you’ve been injured if you don’t have it, immediately going into a “defensive” mode – which translates to an increased heart rate, blood pressure and heavier breathing. Anesthesia serves to reduce your body’s natural reaction to injuries, immobilizes you and prevents you from remembering the experience.
Cutting the incisions and reshaping your nose’s structure
Once the anesthesia takes effect, Florida nose surgeons will employ either a closed procedure where the incisions are hidden in the nose or an open procedure where an incision is made across what’s called the columella…that’s the narrow strip of tissue separating the nostrils.
These incisions give surgeons the access they need to reshape your nose. Once they’re able to go beneath your skin and depending on your particular situation, surgeons will either reduce nasal structures or augment them using a cartilage graft from some other part of your body.
Most likely, surgeons will obtain this cartilage from the septum, or the partition that separates your nostrils. They can also obtain this cartilage graft from the ear or a subsection of rib cartilage.
If necessary, surgeons will also straighten the septum and reduce projections inside the nose to help you breathe better.
Closing the incisions
Once surgeons sculpt your nose to your desired shape, they will redrape your nasal skin and tissue and close the incisions. They may place additional incisions in your nostril’s natural creases to alter their size.
Most people who undergo anesthesia have no problems but it varies from person to person. You may take awhile to wake up or you will abruptly and when you do, you may feel hot, cold or a bit numb. You may even feel a little nauseous and go through either a crying or giggling spell. Don’t worry, it’s all normal and surgeons will be there watching you as the anesthesia wears off.
To support the nose during recovery, surgeons will place splints and internal tubes. Internal swelling should subside within a few weeks but it may take up to a year for your new nasal contours to be fully refined, during which time you may notice gradual changes in your nose’s appearance as it develops into a more permanent outcome.
Swelling may also come and go during this time.
Contact us at 352.265.8402 to setup an appointment. To view before and after photos, click here.