In this operation the tissues corresponding to the nose cartilage and bone are modified according to individual needs. Definite results will show only after the normal healing process occurs. Healing time varies depending on the health of the patient, but final results will normally be obtained after twelve months.
Prior to the operation it is necessary to study the face based on a full-face picture, a left and right profile, and a view of the nostrils clearly showing the contour of the orifices.
A complete medical history from your personal doctor is required, along with an updated medical checkup with electrocardiogram, a complete whole blood count, HIV test, platelets, prothrombin time, partial thromboplastin time, and a complete urine test.
Once these steps have been taken, a clinical exam is done to evaluate nose contour and the position of the nasal wall. We also evaluate such issues as whether you are suffering breathing problems, whether your chin protrude or is recessed, and so on.. Normally the operation is carried out on women older than 16 and men older than 17, when it is assumed the face is no longer growing. This surgery can be carried out on babies or teenagers on very special cases.
The surgery is normally carried out at Hospital Santa Rita under local anesthesia and sedation. It is sometimes done with general anesthesia and the patient will stay one night at the hospital. Post operation care will normally require 12 days rest and you will have a cast to protect your nose. Bandages will have to be changed every two or three days, enabling clean up and control of the surgery. Postoperative control is done at the Clinica Americana.
Postoperative swelling is very obvious, but reduces by about 40% in the first three weeks after the operation. Such swelling is accompanied by a numb nose tip, and the nose feels hard and sensitive to pressure. The remaining swelling will reduce very slowly, taking from twelve to eighteen months for a full recovery. It is important to understand that the results are long-range and long-lasting, and that while medicine by itself will not reduce swelling, time and medicine will.
As a precautionary measure, antibiotics are prescribed two days before and eight days after the operation. Normally nose operations can cause a slight pain, so Acetaminophen is prescribed every six hours.
Another complaint is pressure and obstruction of the nostrils. To solve this Vaseline has to be applied eight times a day inside the nostrils. It is important to keep the nostrils lubricated at all times. Otrivin Gel is also recommended three times a day. To help with your sleep, one tablet of Benadryl 25 mg is recommended and in extreme cases a stronger sleeping pill like Lorazepan will be prescribed.
For the two weeks before and two weeks after the operation itself, you are instructed to completely avoid: Aspirin, Motrin or similar products, liquor or active or passive smoking (that is, avoid smoking and smokers). For three weeks after the operation you should also avoid exercise, bending, sun, nose blowing, stress and hot water. The avoidance of exercise is recommended for six weeks after the operation.
