October 2018

It’s easy to think that today’s aesthetic surgeries are new, reliant on technology, and in some cases such as endoscopic brow lifts that is true. But other procedures have been around for a long time. Rhinoplasty is one of those.

The first recorded nose-enhancement surgery can be traced back to ancient times in Egypt and India. Fast forward to 2018, nose surgery, clinically known as rhinoplasty, is one of the most frequently performed cosmetic surgeries. Some patients want to aesthetically improve the appearance of their nose while others want to correct deformities brought about by trauma.

Dr. Frank has been helping Calgary patients like the nose they see every morning when they look in the mirror. Nose surgery is a very satisfying procedure.

What’s involved?

Whatever your reasons for wanting rhinoplasty, below is a run-through of everything involved with the procedure:

• Rhinoplasty with Dr. Frank is more than just about altering the size and shape of your nose. Dr. Frank will consider all of these factors — your overall facial balance, nasal support, skin elasticity, ethnicity, and medical history.
• A good cosmetic outcome from rhinoplasty is not solely dependent on the skills of your surgeon but also the patient’s healing response, which may be influenced by the state of his or her health and lifestyle habits such as smoking.
• Rhinoplasty can be performed via the open or closed approach. In an open rhinoplasty, the nasal cartilage and surrounding bone structure are exposed, while a closed approach keeps them untouched and unexposed because the incisions are made inside the nose.
• It’s not uncommon to be disappointed with the appearance of your nose following surgery. The significant amount of swelling post-surgery will be unappealing. You need patience at this time.

Whether it’s a droopy nasal tip or a variety humps and bumps that are bothering you, we’d love to help you review your nose-enhancement options. Call Dr. Frank at (403) 245-1228 to make a consultation for rhinoplasty.

Whether your nose surgery was for cosmetic or functional reasons, the goal is to recover as soon as possible without complications. Dr. Frank knows that a successful recovery is a critical component of your overall rhinoplasty experience. Patients want to see their final results as soon as possible, but patience is a virtue, especially with rhinoplasty recovery!

Your initial recovery will take two weeks or more, although you will have some residual swelling for a few weeks. This swelling can come and go for a few months, especially in the evening. Here are some tips for a successful, speedy recovery from this rewarding cosmetic procedure with Dr. Frank:

• Limit facial muscle movements— This sounds obvious, but during your recovery you need to limit things such as laughing and smiling (only hang out with your more boring friends!). Be careful not to open your mouth too wide. Keep your nose from stretching too much or from being hit. Opt for food that is easy to chew; postpone having foods like steak that require more chewing.
• Protect your nose from the sun— Unprotected sun exposure can cause permanent discoloration in your nose after rhinoplasty. Apply 30+ spf sunscreen and wear protective clothing. You don’t want “a little sun,” your nose doesn’t want any. This seems easy if you have your procedure during a Calgary winter, but even if you’re up skiing protect your nose with sunscreen.
• Choose the right clothes— During recovery, choose clothes that won’t possibly have physical contact with the nose area. Also, don’t wear sunglasses or reading glasses. If you need regular glasses tape them above your bridge. Avoid tops that must be pulled over your head, such as sweaters, t-shirts, or that Flames’ jersey. Button-up shirts are your best choice as you recover, as they minimize nose movement and possible bumping while dressing.
• Keep the exercise light— You may be tempted to get back to hardcore exercise soon as a way to help deal with recovery, but you can’t. You need to opt for lighter workouts that restrict up-and-down movement. Also, don’t participate in sports that put you at risk of hitting your nose. Lastly, your nose will feel tender during recovery, which makes swimming, diving, and similar exercise a temporary no-no until you’re fully healed.

With patience and attention, gracefully recovering from rhinoplasty is not difficult. Dr. Frank will explain the best practices for your recovery, so that you will be pleased with your new nose for the rest of your life. Call us at (403) 245-1228 to schedule a consultation or with any questions you may have.