by Dr Leow Aik Ming
Reduction rhinoplasty corrects the structural framework of the nose itself by removing or re-arranging the nasal cartilage and/or bone to achieve the desired nose shape and size. This procedure can be performed via incisions placed inside the nostrils without leaving behind any visible stitches or scars (closed rhinoplasty). In conditions where the nasal tip or the lower third structure of the nose needs to be reshaped, a tiny incision is made on the underside of the nose just between the nostrils (open rhinoplasty). This technique will leave a small scar and its location makes the scar inconspicuous.
Indications for reduction rhinoplasty include:
- To alter the hump at the bridge of the nose
- To reshape the tip of the nose
- To change the length or width of the nose
- To change the width of the nostrils
- To remove excess fibrofatty tissue or skin on the nose.
Occasionally chin augmentation can be performed to complement a rhinoplasty. These procedures are popular with both men and women to create facial harmony. For men, creating a stronger or shorter nose, along with a stronger jawline, is often the objective. Women sometimes wish to have a more petite nose and less pointy chin.
Preoperative evaluation before reduction rhinoplasty
Communication is vital in order to achieve the patient’s goals. During the initial consultation, patients should discuss their goals and expectations with the plastic surgeon. The plastic surgeon will work closely with the patients to reach an agreement about the desirable results from the surgical procedures involved and their long term benefits. Every patient is different, therefore a specific treatment regimen is planned to suit an individual’s need.
- Discussion about expectation and desired outcome
- Medical conditions, drug allergies and previous medical or surgical treatment
- Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, tobacco and drugs should be revealed
- Discussion of type of anaesthesia
- Examination and measurement of the face and nose
- Photography for preoperative and postoperative evaluation
Postoperative expectations
Recovering from reduction rhinoplasty usually takes about 7-14 days in most cases. After the surgery there may be swelling, bruises, numbness or discomfort for several days which can be controlled with oral medications, cold compression and ointment. Some patients may experience nose stuffiness or nose bleeding. A splint or bandage is usually placed on the surface of the nose for a short period of time to assist the nose to retain its new shape asl it heals. Oral antibiotics and analgesics are prescribed to reduce the risk of infection and postoperative pain respectively. Any external sutures on the nose will be removed about 7-10 days after the surgery.
For more information on the procedure mentioned in this article, please visit the following website (www.elegantplasticsurgery.com).
Online consultation is also available if you have any enquiries,
please email: elegantplasticsurgery@gmail.com.
Elegant Plastic Surgical Centre, Pantai Hospital Ipoh,
Tel: +605 5405457 (Receptionist) or +605 5405458 (Direct Line)
WhatsApp : +0126235458
Elegant Plastic Surgical Centre, Pantai Hospital Manjung,
Tel: +605 6898624 (Receptionist) or +605 6898697 (Direct Line).
