All About Septorhinoplasty: Procedure, Recovery, and Risks
Septorhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects both nasal function and appearance. This procedure is a combination of two surgeries, rhinoplasty, which is the surgery to reshape the nose, and septoplasty, which is the surgery to correct the deviated nasal septum. In this article, we will discuss everything you need to know about septorhinoplasty, including the procedure, recovery, and risks.
Septorhinoplasty Procedure
Septorhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia, and it usually takes about 2-3 hours to complete. The surgeon will make incisions inside the nose to access the cartilage and bone. Depending on the complexity of the case, the surgeon may also make additional incisions in the skin between the nostrils or on the side of the nose.
The surgeon will then reshape the nose and correct the deviated nasal septum. The cartilage and bone are then repositioned and secured with sutures. Once the surgery is complete, the surgeon will place a splint and packing inside the nose to help maintain the new shape and support the healing process.
Recovery
Recovery after septorhinoplasty usually takes about 1-2 weeks. During the first few days after surgery, patients may experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort. The surgeon may prescribe pain medication and antibiotics to manage these symptoms.
Patients should avoid any strenuous activity or heavy lifting for at least two weeks after surgery. They should also avoid blowing their nose for the first week and use a saline spray to keep the nasal passages moist. The splint and packing inside the nose are usually removed after 1-2 weeks.
Risks
Like any surgical procedure, septorhinoplasty carries some risks. These risks include bleeding, infection, scarring, and a reaction to anesthesia. In rare cases, the surgery may not produce the desired results, or the patient may require additional surgery to achieve the desired outcome.
It is essential to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience with septorhinoplasty to minimize the risks and ensure a successful outcome.
In conclusion, septorhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that can correct both nasal function and appearance. The procedure takes about 2-3 hours to complete and has a recovery time of 1-2 weeks. Like any surgical procedure, it carries some risks, but with proper care and choosing the right surgeon, the outcome can be successful.
