Cosmetic Procedures/Photos
- Nasal Surgery -
 
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Description: Rhinoplasty (nasal surgery)

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to improve the nose in one or both of the following ways:

· To improve the external appearance of the nose.
· To improve nasal breathing difficulties.

Dr. Friedman customizes rhinoplasty to each patient, depending upon the specific internal and external nasal problems and the patient's desires.  There is not a universal type of rhinoplasty that will meet the needs of every patient.  The best candidates for surgery are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the appearance of their nose.

In some patients, deviation of the nasal septum may cause the nose to appear crooked and/or may interfere with breathing through the nasal passages.   Septoplasty to straighten and/or remove a portion of the septum may be performed to improve these problems.  Surgery performed to improve nasal breathing is generally covered by insurance. However, reshaping of the nose is considered cosmetic surgery and is not covered by most insurers.

Dr. Friedman performs rhinoplasty on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.  The surgery takes 2 to 3 hours in most patients.  Incisions are located inside the nose with the exception of a 1 /4 inch incision between the nostrils on the underside of the nose.  The small external incision (open rhinoplasty) enables better control over nasal reshaping.

Patients usually go home about 3 hours after surgery.  Pain is usually mild and well controlled with prescription pain medication.  Most patients return to light activities within 3 to 5 days.  Nasal splints (if used) and stitches are removed 1 week after surgery.  Heavy straining should be avoided for about 4 weeks.  Improvement in nasal shape is apparent immediately after surgery but final results may take 12 to 18 months.

When you visit our office, Dr. Friedman will discuss your particular problems and concerns.  He will give you a realistic expectation of what you can expect from surgery.  We will also show you "before and after" photos of rhinoplasties performed by Dr. Friedman.  If you wish to speak to other patients who have undergone nasal surgery, we will provide you with phone numbers.



Pre- & Post-Operative Instructions:

One week before surgery:

  1. Do not take aspirin-containing products, as these may increase your risk of bleeding. Use extra-strength Tylenol for any headaches or other minor pains.
  2. Please notify Dr. Friedman's staff if you become sick with a fever, significant cough, etc. If necessary, your surgery can be rescheduled to a time when you are feeling better.
  3. Do not smoke at all or use a nicotine patch for at least two weeks (and preferably 4 weeks) prior to surgery and 4 weeks after surgery. Smoking interferes with wound healing and increases your risk for anesthetic and surgical complications.
  4. Arrange to have a relative or friend drive you home after surgery and stay with you for the evening. You cannot drive yourself home.

The evening before surgery:

  1. Do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours prior to your scheduled surgery time.
  2. Make some jello and/or soup for after surgery. Have some juice in your refrigerator.
  3. The anesthesiologist will contact you by phone to discuss your medical history and to answer any questions. Day of surgery:

before you leave home

  1. Remember not to eat, drink, or smoke. This includes no chewing gum, mints, etc.
  2. Make sure someone is available to drive you home. Put a pillow and blanket in the car.
  3. Wear loose, comfortable clothing. Avoid heavy make-up, jewelry, or contact lenses. Please do not use any lotion, baby oil, perfume or powder. LEAVE ALL VALUABLES AT HOME!

Day of surgery: at the facility before surgery

  1. Dr. Friedman will talk to you before surgery to answer any last-minute questions. He will place drawings on your chest to help him accurately plan your surgery.
  2. You will meet the anesthesiologist and surgical nurses.

Day of surgery: at the facility after surgery

  1. You will be taken to the recovery area to wake up after surgery. Dr. Friedman will go to the waiting room to speak to your family/friends.
  2. Approximately 1 hour later, your family can visit you. Once you are feeling well enough, you may go home.

At home after surgery:

  1. Have someone stay with you for the first night. You may be weak and drowsy.
  2. Take the antibiotics (3 times daily), pain medication (as needed), and anti-nausea medicine (as needed) that Dr. Friedman has prescribed for you.
  3. Sleep with your head elevated. Sleep on your back (not your stomach or side).
  4. Keep your dressings (gauze and tape) clean and dry. Do not remove the dressings. You may shower only from the waist down. You may wish to sponge bathe.
  5. If you experience a prolonged fever (oral temperature greater than 101), contact Dr. Friedman.
  6. Call Dr. Friedman's office to arrange your first follow-up visit.

Your first follow-up visit (about 1 week after surgery):

  1. The dressings will be removed. Dr. Friedman will examine the incisions. Please leave the tape strips alone (as they will help reduce scarring) until they come off on their own. You may begin light showering. Avoid immersing the breasts under water.
  2. Your breasts may look too high and tight at this time. Over the next several months, your breasts will become softer and more natural in appearance. To facilitate softening of the tissues, you should avoid tight bras. Instead, wear a camisole or a loose cotton sports bra. Do not wear an under wire bra for at least 3 months following surgery unless instructed to do so by Dr. Friedman.
  3. You may walk as much as you like following surgery. You may begin jogging and light aerobic exercise about 2 to 3 weeks after surgery (while wearing a sports bra). You should avoid chest, arm, and abdominal exercise for 6 weeks after surgery. Do not lift, push, or pull anything greater than 5 pounds (or a grocery bag) for 6 weeks after surgery. It is normal to feel "stretching" or "pulling" sensations in the chest for a few months after surgery.
  4. You may not drive while you are taking the prescription pain medication. You may begin driving (preferably an automatic transmission) about 7 to 10 days after surgery. Please avoid freeways and tollways until you feel comfortable with city driving.
  5. The incisions may become increasingly firm and red for 4 to 6 weeks after surgery. After this, they will gradually soften and fade. Final results are at about 1 year after surgery. Avoid direct exposure of the incisions to the sun or tanning booths for 6 months.

Please feel free to ask Dr. Friedman or his staff about any additional questions or concerns.

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