Rhinoplasty: What you should know

What does rhinoplasty involve?

Rhinoplasty is the surgery that modifies the shape of the nose. This surgery can increase, reduce or change its structure, tip or bridge, narrow or widen the nostrils. It also corrects trauma, congenital problems and breathing difficulties.

 

What is the difference between septoplasty and rhinoplasty?

Septoplasty is performed when the goal is to resolve a blocked nose caused by a misaligned nasal septum without modifying the appearance of the face. Rhinoplasty, on the other hand, does modify it.

Both surgeries, septoplasty and rhinoplasty, can be carried out during the same procedure.

Why do people seek rhinoplasty?

The patient who undergoes rhinoplasty is looking for the harmony they cannot find in their face. Often this perceived lack of harmony leads patients to endure a series of complexes, greatly affecting their self-esteem, sometimes even preventing them from living a normal life. In some cases, it can even lead to anxiety and/or depression.

The vast majority of patients who, facing this problem, decide to undergo rhinoplasty, manage to find a solution. As was the case with Fali, one of our patients who, through the programme «Yo Medico» (I Am a Doctor) on Canal Sur, saw her dream come true — and was truly satisfied with the result.

If you identify with this, do not hesitate to contact us so we can help you find the best possible solution.

 

What is the surgeon’s main goal at the Munoz-Carinanos Institute?

The surgeon’s main goal is to create a nose that does NOT look operated on, thus giving greater naturalness to the face. At the Munoz-Carinanos Institute, it is Dr. Carinanos himself who performs the procedure.

 

What rhinoplasty methods exist?

There are two main methods:

 

Open rhinoplasty: This involves making a small external incision located on the columella — the strip of tissue that separates the nostrils and sits above the upper lip. This surgery usually leaves a small, barely noticeable scar once the post-operative healing process is complete. This method is best for working on the nasal tip, allowing for better symmetry and the ability to better correct defects.

Closed rhinoplasty: This is the procedure in which work is done without external incisions — only internal ones. It is indicated for correcting the dorsal hump, but not the nasal tip.

The surgeon will decide which technique to use based on what the patient wishes to improve.

 

What is the post-operative process after rhinoplasty?

It is important for the patient to understand what the recovery process will be after rhinoplasty — how much time off work will be needed and how long before they can resume physical activity and sports.

After surgery, the patient may need one day of hospital admission. Once it is confirmed that the post-surgical process is progressing well, the patient is discharged. The first 24-48 hours will be the most uncomfortable, but with barely any pain. Bruising may appear, which will disappear within about 10 days, and the patient will need to wear a splint or cast for at least 7 days. During this time, it is recommended to lead a relaxed lifestyle to avoid any mishaps. After this period, the patient can return to work provided it does not require too much physical activity. During the period of bruising, it is essential to use sun protection factor 40 or higher.

A very common question patients ask us is: When can I start doing sports or physical exercise after rhinoplasty? If the post-operative process is progressing well, sports activity can be resumed one month after surgery.

Another frequent question is: When can I wear glasses? Contact lenses can be used 2 days after surgery, and glasses approximately 8 weeks later.

 

What should I consider when choosing a specialist for rhinoplasty?

When deciding to have rhinoplasty, two important factors must be taken into account. One is the aesthetics of our nose, where the surgeon will advise on the most suitable shape for our face. The other, equally important, is the proper function of our nasal organ. For this reason, we recommend that when choosing the best specialist, you consider whom to consult. It is essential to know that the doctor with expertise in this area is the ENT specialist, which is why at the Munoz-Carinanos Institute, these two aspects are given the utmost care.

 

Do not hesitate to contact us — we can provide you with the best advice and the most appropriate solution. You can do so through this website or by calling 954 378 080 or 954 382 521. We hope we have been helpful!