Most of us notice someone’s nose only when it is not in balance with their face, whether it’s too large, too wide, or misshapen. If you are dissatisfied with the shape or proportion of your nose, you are likely dissatisfied with your overall facial appearance.  Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) in Colombia can improve the way you look at yourself, as well as how others see you.

Nose surgery, or rhinoplasty in Colombia, is sometimes referred to as “nose reshaping” or a “nose job.” It can improve the appearance and proportion of your nose, or correct a breathing problem associate with the nose.

Nose surgery in Colombia is divided into two categories: cosmetic and functional. Examples of cosmetic procedures on the nose include reducing a prominent bump on the bridge or refining a bulbous nasal tip.

COSMETIC CHANGES ARE VISIBLE ON THE OUTSIDE OF THE NOSE.

Functional improvements involve opening the nasal airways so that it is easier to breathe. The most common functional problem is a deviated septum (a midline cartilage structure that divides the nose into right and left sides). Impairment of nasal breathing is considered a health problem and is typically covered by health insurance.

Many of our nose surgery patients have both cosmetic and functional concerns about their nose. An example would be a severely deviated septum that results in a blocked nasal airway and a visibly crooked nose. Other patients may seek medical treatment for breathing problems, but would also like to improve the cosmetic appearance of their nose. For instance, a patient may have nasal airway obstruction and an unattractive bump on the bridge. There are advantages to correcting both functional and cosmetic problems at the same time.

Our surgeons also have experience correcting poor results obtained following nose surgery from another practice. Many men and women considering revision rhinoplasty in Colombia choose our practice to take advantage of our surgeons’ skill.

Nose surgery in Colombia is one of the cosmetic procedures that can most greatly improve your overall appearance. It is appropriate for adults, as well as teens, as long as they are about 16 years old and their facial growth is complete. Nose shapes and patient desires vary greatly. Advice about nasal surgery should be individualized to the particular patient’s needs.

WHAT CAN SURGERY OF THE NOSE ACCOMPLISH?

RHINOPLASTY IN COLOMBIA  CAN CHANGE:

• Nose size, in relation to the other facial structures
• Nose width, at the bridge
• Nose profile, with visible humps or depressions on the bridge
• Nasal tip, that is large or bulbous, drooping, or too upturned
• Nostrils that are large, wide or upturned
• Nasal asymmetry and deviation

Rhinoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient surgery while you are under local or general anesthesia. The procedure takes about 1 to 2 hours, although more complicated procedures can take longer to complete. Most incisions are concealed inside the nose or along its natural creases, eventually leaving no noticeable evidence of the surgery.

After recovery, our rhinoplasty patients are usually thrilled with the more balanced and attractive look of their face. It’s amazing to see how greatly women and men alike can enhance their appearance and their self-esteem by improving just this one facial feature

YOUR CONSULTATION 

NOSE SURGERY (RHINOPLASTY): ARE YOU A CANDIDATE?

If you are unhappy with the size or shape of your nose, a nose job (rhinoplasty) may help.  Many things can affect the look of your nose. Perhaps you were born with a bump, hook or drooping nasal tip, or an accident or injury may have changed the shape of your nose. Aging, too, can take its toll on the appearance of your nose. For some, a nose job can correct a functional issue such as breathing difficulty due to a deviated septum.

If you are considering rhinoplasty, consult with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this visit, you can discuss your aesthetic and/or functional goals. You must explain what you hope to get out of your nose surgery to achieve the best results.

Do you want to improve your breathing? Are your concerns purely cosmetic?  Or perhaps, you are looking to enhance your identity with ethnic rhinoplasty?  You may also want to correct a previous nose surgery with revision rhinoplasty.

Come prepared to your consultation. Bring photographs of noses you like and even those that you don’t.  These can help your surgeon better understand your goals.  Remember that just because a button or ski-slope nose works on your favorite actress does not mean that it will complement your face. Trust in your surgeon’s expertise.

YOUR RHINOPLASTY CONSULTATION AT PREMIUM CARE PLASTIC SURGERY

If you are unhappy with the size or shape of your nose, a nose job (rhinoplasty) may help.  Many things can affect the look of your nose. Perhaps you were born with a bump, hook or drooping nasal tip, or an accident or injury may have changed the shape of your nose. Aging, too, can take its toll on the appearance of your nose. For some, a nose job can correct a functional issue such as breathing difficulty due to a deviated septum.

If you are considering rhinoplasty, consult with a qualified plastic surgeon. During this visit, you can discuss your aesthetic and/or functional goals. You must explain what you hope to get out of your nose surgery to achieve the best results.

Do you want to improve your breathing? Are your concerns purely cosmetic?  Or perhaps, you are looking to enhance your identity with ethnic rhinoplasty?  You may also want to correct a previous nose surgery with revision rhinoplasty.

Come prepared to your consultation. Bring photographs of noses you like and even those that you don’t.  These can help your surgeon better understand your goals.  Remember that just because a button or ski-slope nose works on your favorite actress does not mean that it will complement your face. Trust in your surgeon’s expertise.

IS IT RIGHT FOR ME?

Nose cosmetic surgery is a highly individualized procedure and you should do it for yourself, not to fulfill someone else’s desires or to try to fit any sort of ideal image.

A RHINOPLASTY PROCEDURE IS A GOOD OPTION FOR YOU IF:

• Your facial growth is complete and you are 13 years of age or older
• You are physically healthy
• You do not smoke
• You have specific, but realistic goals in mind for the improvement of your appearance

The best way for patients to understand their options is in a thorough consultation at Premium Care Plastic Surgery.  In our approach to rhinoplasty, communicating with our patient is key.  We will carefully review your medical history and evaluation questionnaire before the initial consultation.  Our plastic surgeons will explain how the different procedures may apply to you specifically, and what we recommend for your particular case.  We’ll also demonstrate the result we’d expect with each of the procedure options.

BE PREPARED TO DISCUSS:

• Why you want the surgery, your expectations and desired outcome
• Your general health status and any pre-existing health conditions or risk factors
• Medical conditions, drug allergies and medical treatments
• Previous surgeries
• Use of current medications, vitamins, herbal supplements, alcohol, and tobacco

 YOUR PLASTIC SURGEON AT PREMIUM CARE WILL ALSO:

• Take photographs for your medical record
• Discuss your options and recommend a course of treatment
• Discuss likely outcomes of rhinoplasty and any risks or potential complications

You and your surgeon will also develop a preliminary game plan for your nose surgery during this visit. This includes information on the type of rhinoplasty, incision pattern, and anesthesia. If your surgeon feels that rhinoplasty may not address your concerns, he or she may suggest other procedures that can be performed in addition to or in place of rhinoplasty, such as chin augmentation surgery to better balance your facial features.

Facial plastic surgery is an area of expertise for our plastic surgeons at Premium Care in Colombia.  Our patient population reflects a cross-section of local and expatriate residents of the United States, Europe, and Latin America, and we have a broad range of experience with different ages, ethnicities, and sizes of patients.

If you’re ready to meet with our plastic surgeons at Premium Care Plastic Surgery in Colombia, you can request a consultation online or contact us at (+57) 312 545 5569 in Cartagena  and +1 305 8481909 in United States.

PREPARING FOR YOUR RHINOPLASTY IN COLOMBIA

Premium Care Plastic Surgery encourages you to take a few simple steps in preparation for your rhinoplasty procedure in Colombia. Following the steps presented below will make your recovery from surgery as safe, short and relaxing as possible.

Your surgeon will provide you with a list of specific steps you should take leading up to your procedure. This list might include limiting your use of certain medications, alcohol and cigarettes, and minor changes in your grooming habits. These changes are temporary but very important to your comfort and safety.

BEFORE RHINOPLASTY SURGERY, YOU MAY BE ASKED TO:

• Get lab testing or a medical evaluation
• Take certain medications or adjust your current medications
• Stop smoking well in advance of surgery
• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding

SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS YOU RECEIVE WILL COVER:

• What to do on the day of surgery
• The use of anesthesia during your Rhinoplasty
• Post-operative care and follow-up
• Medications to purchase and bring with you on the day of surgery.

A patient’s final result will be enhanced through active participation in preparing for a rhinoplasty.  Patients considering nose surgery need to maintain a healthy, well-balanced diet to prepare for surgery.

Smoking increases the risks of many potential complications of surgery and should be avoided. Patients who smoke must discus this candidly with their plastic surgeon as risks for rhinoplasty surgery increase markedly when compared to non-smokers. Nicotine patches or gum are also associated with increased complications and should not be used in preparation for surgery.

On the day of your surgery, we ask that you wear no jewelry or make-up and avoid deodorant, skin lotions and perfume. We recommend warm, loose fitting clothing, such as pajamas or sweat pants with thick socks or slippers to prevent the chills commonly experienced after surgery. Please inform your surgeon if you have a cold, sore throat, active allergies or an open cut or sore on the day of your surgery.

You’ll need help.  Arrange for someone to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you for at least the first night following surgery.  Effective planning prior to undergoing forehead lift can make your recovery as brief and relaxing as possible.

To take the next step, arrange a personal consultation with Premium Care Plastic Surgery in Colombia by calling (+57) 312 545 5569  in Cartagena and +1 305 8481909 in United States, or use our convenient online form to book a consultation online.

Rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging and complex plastic surgery procedures. It requires that the surgeon has a keen sense of artistic proportions, advanced surgical skills, and extensive experience with the way various nasal structures and tissues respond to surgical intervention, both immediately and with the passage of time.

In the consultation your plastic surgeon will listen carefully to your concerns about your nose and arrive at the plan that is consistent with your desires and nasal anatomy.  Your surgeon will explain in details the specifics of your anatomy and the procedure needed to best give you a nose that is has an “unoperated” natural appearance, functions well for breathing, and gives you the shortest recovery period possible.

RHINOPLASTY SURGERY STEPS

STEP 1 – ANESTHESIA

Medications are administered for your comfort during rhinoplasty surgery. The choices include intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Your doctor will recommend the best choice for you.

STEP 2 – THE INCISION

Surgery of the nose is performed either using a closed procedure, where incisions are hidden inside the nose, or an open procedure, where an incision is made across the columella, the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils.

Through these incisions, the soft tissues that cover the nose are gently raised, allowing access to reshape the structure of the nose.

STEP 3 – CORRECTING A DEVIATED SEPTUM

If the septum is deviated, it is now straightened and the projections inside the nose are reduced to improve breathing.

STEP 4 – RESHAPING THE NOSE STRUCTURE

Surgery of the nose can reduce or augment nasal structures with the use of cartilage grafted from other areas of your body.

Most commonly, pieces of cartilage from the septum, the partition in the   of the nose, is used for this purpose.  Occasionally a piece of cartilage from the ear and rarely a section of rib cartilage can be used.

STEP 5 – CLOSING THE INCISION

Once the underlying structure of the nose is sculpted to the desired shape, nasal skin and tissue is redraped and incisions are closed. Additional incisions may be placed in the natural creases of the  ostrils to alter their size.

STEP 6 – SEE THE RESULTS

Splints and internal tubes will likely support the nose as it begins to heal for approximately one week.

While initial swelling subsides within a few weeks, it may take up to a year for your new nasal contour to fully refine.

During this time you may notice gradual changes in the appearance of your nose as it refines to a more permanent outcome. Swelling may come and go and worsen in the morning during the first year following your nose surgery.

A nose surgery procedure to improve an obstructed airway requires careful evaluation of the nasal structure as it relates to airflow and breathing. Correction of a deviated septum, one of the most common causes of breathing impairment, is achieved by adjusting the nasal structure to produce better alignment.

When you look better, it’s hard not to feel better too.  Give us a call at (+57) 312 545 5569 in Cartagena  305 8481909 in United States, or request a consultation online to speak with one of our plastic surgeons regarding a rhinoplasty or other plastic surgery procedure.

YOUR RECOVERY

Many men and women from the United States, Europe, and Latin America considering rhinoplasty are particularly interested in what the recovery process after nose surgery will be like.  The healing period following today’s rhinoplasty technique is significantly shorter than years past.

Our rhinoplasty patients are advised to elevate their head, both while sleeping and awake, to help reduce swelling. Most patients would not describe their recovery as painful, and any discomfort can be minimized with prescription medication. Patients need to avoid blowing their nose or doing anything else that would increase the risk of bleeding or abnormal healing.

YOU WILL BE GIVEN SPECIFIC INSTRUCTIONS THAT MAY INCLUDE:

• How to care for your incisions following surgery
• Medications to apply or take orally to aid healing and reduce the risk of infection
• When to follow-up with your plastic surgeon.

OTHER THINGS TO EXPECT:

• Ice packs may be applied to the eyes for 2 to 3 days to reduce swelling
• Some bleeding is common in the first few days
• Most people feel well enough to perform normal activities within 3 days, but a splint or cast is worn over the nose for 5-7 days
• Bruises around your eyes that appear immediately after surgery should fade in one week
• You may feel congested for several weeks
• Noticeable swelling may last 2 to 4 weeks
• The skin on the nose will be sensitive for several months and sun block is required
• Numbness of the nasal tip may last for several months

Although you will be able to get a sense of your results about 2 weeks after surgery, subtle changes will continue to appear over 6 to 12 months. Your final result will not be visible for at least 6 months and subtle changes may continue to occur for up to 2 years.

BE CAREFUL

Following your physician’s instructions is key to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during the time of healing. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.

RHINOPLASTY RESULTS WILL BE LONG LASTING

It may take several months for swelling to fully dissipate and up to 6 months for incision lines to mature.  Life-long sun protection will help to maintain your rejuvenated appearance by minimizing photo-aging or sun damage. In addition, a healthy lifestyle will also help extend the results of your rejuvenated, more youthful appearance.

RISKS AND COMPLICATIONS

Complications are uncommon for Los Angeles “nose job” patients, but can include:

• Nosebleeds
• Numbness of the skin
• Small bursting of blood vessels on the skin’s surface
• Small scars on the base of the nose
• Under-correction or over-correction
• Minor swelling, which can continue for at least several months

Following your surgeon’s advice before and after surgery will help minimize the risk of complications. Our surgeons and their patient coordinators will review all of the possible complications with you before your procedure.

If you’re ready to find out more about changing your look, request a consultation online or call us at (+57) 312 545 5569 in Cartagena to request an appointment with one of our skilled, sensitive plastic surgeons in Colombia.

RHINOPLASTY: WORDS TO KNOW

• Cartilage: Connective tissue that forms the structure of the nose.
• Columella: The narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils.Deviated septum: Cartilage that separates the nostrils is misaligned which may cause partial nasal airway obstruction.General anesthesia: Drugs and/or gases used during an operation to relieve pain and alter consciousness.
• Hematoma: Blood pooling beneath the skin.
• Intravenous sedation: Sedatives administered by injection into a vein to help you relax.Local anesthesia: A drug injected directly to the site of an incision during an operation to relieve pain.
• Rhinoplasty: Surgery to reshape the nose.

RHINOPLASTY:  FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is surgery of the nose. Also known as a nose job, it can be performed for cosmetic or functional reasons. With rhinoplasty, defects or asymmetries of the nose can be corrected. A nose can be straightened, shortened, reduced in size or made narrower. In addition, bumps can be removed and the nostrils can be adjusted in size or flare.

Why is nose surgery called rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is the combination of the greek words “Rhino” (meaning “nose”) and “Plasty” (meaning “to mold or shape”).

How old do you have to be to have rhinoplasty in Colombia?

It is usually wise to avoid extensive nasal surgery on children unless it is to correct a serious problem or disfigurement due to a birth defect or trauma. Generally, cosmetic surgery on the nose is delayed until the nose has fully matured.  Generally, this is around age 16 for women and age 18 for men. Patients who have completed their growth may have surgery at earlier ages.  Nose reshaping is the most requested aesthetic surgical procedure by teens, but it can be performed at virtually any age as long as the person meets the medical and emotional criteria for being a good candidate for the surgery.

What does a typical rhinoplasty consultation entail?

At your consultation, the surgeon will ask you to describe your issues with your nose and how you hope the surgery will address them, and then he or she will explain whether those goals can be achieved realistically with rhinoplasty. A good surgeon will take into account what type of a rhinoplasty would most enhance your facial features and bone structure. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to rhinoplasty — it’s a very individualized approach.

How is rhinoplasty performed?

Rhinoplasty can be done with either the open or the closed technique. With the open technique, a small incision is made across and between the two nostrils and the skin of the nose is pulled back to expose the cartilage and bone. In the closed technique, the incisions are made inside the nostrils. The technique chosen will determine how extensive your surgery will be.

How long does the procedure take?

The surgery will last from 1 to 3 hours depending on the type and degree of shaping required. If the rhinoplasty is also intended to improve your breathing, additional time is required.

Does rhinoplasty hurt?

Most rhinoplasty patients would say that the surgery was not very painful; they might describe it as uncomfortable. The few patients who require nasal packing (placed into the nose after the operation to control bleeding) do find this bothersome. If your rhinoplasty requires nasal packing you will most likely be able to remove it within 48 hours.

 What form of anesthesia is used?

Most of our rhinoplasty patients will have local anesthesia in addition to general anesthesia administered by a board certified anesthesiologist. With general anesthesia, the patient is totally unaware during the procedure.

What should I expect postoperatively?

When you awake from anesthesia, your nose will be packed with gauze, so you will need to breathe through your mouth. There may be a splint or cast to support the new shape of your nose and a dressing covering it all. You will be bruised and swollen, and possibly have the beginnings of two black eyes. This is normal and will subside over the first week or so of recovery. Most of the swelling resolves within two weeks to a month; it can take up to one year for all the residual swelling to abate.

Can I return home the same day?

Yes. Rhinoplasty surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. You will need someone to drop you off, pick you up, take you home and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

Will I be stuck in bed after rhinoplasty in Colombia?

You should plan to rest for about 24 hours while you completely recover from the anesthesia, though we do encourage some light walking. After that, you can be up and about without any difficulties.

When will the cast be taken off?

The cast or splint is usually removed within the first week following surgery, and it may be a bit uncomfortable.

How long before I can return to normal activity?

Following rhinoplasty, our patients return to normal activities within a few days, but some swelling and bruising may remain. During the first week you will have a cast on your nose; if you are not self-conscious about the cast you can resume most normal activities after 3 days. Most of the swelling will be gone within 3 weeks. You need to exercise good judgment for the first few weeks. Do not participate in strenuous activities that will increase your blood pressure and nasal swelling. Vigorous activity in the postoperative period may prolong recovery.

Are there any scars after rhinoplasty? Most types of rhinoplasty surgery are performed “endonasally” (all the incisions are inside the nose). Endonasal rhinoplasty will leave small scars inside the nose only. Some patients may have an “open” approach if they require extensive nasal tip work or are having a repeat rhinoplasty. This results in a small, discreet scar under the nose.

Is nose surgery permanent?

Rhinoplasty is permanent, but after rhinoplasty your nose will still change with the natural aging process.

What if I don’t like my result?

You will need to wait for the swelling to subside before you can judge your final result. Patience is important. Often the subtleties and elegance aren’t revealed for many months. If after several months you are still unhappy with the result, speak with one of our surgeons about revision rhinoplasty in Cartagena.

When will I be able to see the results?

Your nose will be very sensitive and swollen for about a month and a half. As the swelling gradually goes down, your new nose will begin to emerge. About 90 percent of the swelling is gone by three months after surgery and the rest slowly disappears over the next year.

What options are available for ethnic noses?

Many ethnic noses have skin, bone and cartilage qualities that limit the possible surgical outcomes. Often the best results are achieved with subtle improvements that do not completely erase the nose’s ethnic qualities.

 What are possible risks of a rhinoplasty in Colombia?

Rhinoplasty procedures are considered safe and hundreds of thousands of rhinoplasty surgeries are performed every year. Every surgical procedure, however, is associated with a risk of complications. Examples of complications associated with rhinoplasty include adverse reaction to anesthesia, bleeding or infection. Your rhinoplasty surgeon will review risks in detail prior to the procedure.

What is the post-operative course following rhinoplasty?

Generally, bruising around the eyes and cheeks is most apparent during the first 3 days following surgery. Most discoloration will disappear within a week. A few days after surgery, you can begin to use cover-up makeup, if desired. Noticeable swelling may last for several weeks. Minor residual swelling, most frequently affecting the nasal tip, may continue for many months, but generally this should not be apparent to others. If packing was used, it will be removed 1 to 3 days after surgery. Patients who have an external incision will have their sutures removed within 1 week. The nasal splint is usually worn for 1 week, during which time you should avoid getting it wet.

If you’re ready to find out more about rhinoplasty in Colombia look, go request a consultation online or call us at (+57) 312 545 5569 in Cartagena  305 8481909 in United States to request an appointment with one of our skilled, sensitive plastic surgeons.