Rhinoplasty, surgery to reshape or improve the appearance of the nose in a number of ways by reducing the size, straighten, raise, lower, remove bumps, curves, ridges and contour the shape of the bridge in alignment with the tip.

There are several ways in performing this procedure. This will depend on your surgeon. An incision may be placed under the rim, or an incision is done within the nose, and then soft tissue is then separated, the bone and cartilage is then reshaped and the skin sealed with fine sutures to minimize scarring. Patients who have a deviated septum may have this problem corrected during either surgery to improve breathing problems. Prior to surgery your surgeon may place drops in your nose to eliminate bleeding during surgery and constrict blood vessels.

Although there is no age limit for Rhinoplasty, however the preferred age is in the mid teens when the nose is near full development. Scarring usually fades very quickly and ultimately should be unnoticeable.

Duration of Operation: Two hours.

Pre operative Care:
Inform your surgeon of any allergies, any medical conditions, and any medications you are taking (both prescription and non-prescription)

Avoid aspirin and aspirin-containing medicines for two weeks prior to surgery.

Do not smoke for 2 weeks prior to surgery as this may affect your reaction to the anesthetic and prolong the healing process.

After Care:
You may be required to wear a splint to maintain the position of the nasal bones; your surgeon may request that this remain on your nose for up to 2 weeks. The surgeon may also place some gauze packing inside your nose for 24 hours after surgery to avoid bleeding.

Hospital Admission: One night admission to hospital

Anesthetic:
The operation is done under either local or general anesthetic. Most patients are more comfortable having this procedure done during general anesthetic. Your surgeon will advise you on the best alternative to suit you.

Post Operative Care:
Your surgeon will advise you when you may resume your normal activities.You should not blow your nose for the first two weeks after surgery and avoid bumping or rubbing your nose for the next 3 months. Glasses should not sit on the bridge of the nose for the first month. Avoid any strenuous activities that may increase your blood pressure such as running, swimming or bending as this may cause your nose to bleed in the first month. Be gentle when washing your face and avoid fragrances that may cause you to sneeze. You may be required to remain in Thailand for 2 weeks for your surgeon to monitor your progress.

Recovery:
Most Rhinoplasty patients recover quickly and are able to move around shortly after surgery. You may not wish to return to work for approx. 2 weeks as you may suffer severe bruising and swelling around the eyes

Result:
After approx 2 weeks your bruising and swelling will have subsided and no one will be able to tell that you have had surgery. The result is a natural appearance with your nose balancing the rest of your face. It may take up to 12 months before you see your final result.

Risks and Complications:
When Rhinoplasty is performed by a qualified accredited cosmetic surgeon, complications are rare. Nevertheless, there is always a possibility of infection, nosebleeds, or a reaction to the anesthesia. You can reduce your risks by closely following your surgeon's instructions both before and after surgery

After surgery, you may experience some small blood vessels on the skin's surface; these are usually minor, and can usually be corrected with laser which can eradicate the capillaries; this procedure is effective and affordable and sometimes covered by Medicare.
As for scarring, when Rhinoplasty is performed from inside the nose, there is no visible scarring at all; when an “open” technique is used, or when the procedure calls for the narrowing of flared nostrils, the small scars on the base of the nose are usually not visible.