Rhinoplasty with or without septoplasty addresses both cosmetic issues and nasal obstruction. A septoplasty involves straightening the part of the nose that separates the two nasal cavities. A deviated nasal septum may be the culprit in cases of nasal obstruction that is worse on one side.
Often rhinoplasty is done in conjunction with a septoplasty to correct any nasal deformities or areas of nasal obstruction. The cause of nasal deformity may be from a nasal fracture, birth, previous surgeries, progression of certain diseases affecting cartilage in the body, or changes with age (such as a sinking nasal tip).
What to expect after rhinoplasty:
After surgery, most patients will have a set of internal splints as well as an external cast/splint to keep the nose “set.”
Preoperative:
Avoid aspirin and NSAIDs such as ibuprofen or other medications which increase the risk of bleeding
Avoid salty foods to minimize swelling after surgery
Avoid smoking (impairs wound healing after surgery)
Postoperative:
Nasal saline rinses of the nasal cavity, apply ice and/or cold compresses
Gentle nose blowing
Avoid contact sports (avoid re-injuring the nose) and heavy straining
Some swelling and bruising of the nose and eyelids may occur but typically subsides within a few weeks
