Is a nose job visible? Understanding rhinoplasty in London

When considering a nose job, you naturally wonder about the long-term effects. Will the changes to your nose be there for good? Will the nose job scars be visible? Well, the results of this cosmetic surgery are indeed permanent.

However, it’s essential to understand that while a nose job can create a lasting transformation, it won’t halt the natural ageing process or account for specific situations that might influence your results.

So, let’s first understand what a rhinoplasty procedure is, and the rhinoplasty process, and then discuss what to expect in the years to come.

BOOK CONSULTATION

Rhinoplasty: Surgical nose reshaping

You may already be familiar with the concept of a rhinoplasty procedure or a “nose job.” It is a cosmetic surgery that focuses on changing the shape of your nose. It’s quite a popular procedure because it can make a significant difference in how your nose looks and how it fits with the rest of your face.

Your nose is a central feature of your face, and if it’s not quite right in terms of size or shape, it can draw attention away from your other attractive features.

By reshaping the nose, rhinoplasty can provide facial harmony and boost your appearance and your self-confidence. But it’s not just about looks. This cosmetic surgery can also have functional benefits. If your nose’s external structure is improved, you can potentially feel more confident about how you look, as well as aiding you to breathe better.

But it is crucial that you choose the right expert for the job. Skill and experience can make a big difference in how your nose and, consequently, your appearance turns out.

What to keep in mind before undergoing rhinoplasty surgery

Before deciding on a rhinoplasty procedure, there are several important factors to consider. Your surgeon can only work with the existing bone and cartilage structure of your nose, so there are limitations to how much your nose shape can be altered. It’s crucial that the surgery doesn’t affect your ability to breathe properly or cause nasal obstruction. If your nasal septum is uneven, your surgeon may recommend straightening it to improve your breathing.

Also, be patient with the results, as it can take up to a year for the final outcome to become fully visible. Additionally, your facial and nasal bones need to be fully mature before you can undergo nose surgery.

These considerations, along with discussions with your surgeon, will help you determine if the rhinoplasty procedure is the right choice for you.

Understanding the surgical procedure

Rhinoplasty procedures involve altering the bone, cartilage, and skin of the nose. The specific changes depend on your unique needs and desires. Your surgeon will consider your other facial features, the condition of your nose’s skin, and your goals for the procedure when planning it.

To ensure your rhinoplasty aligns with your goals and expectations, you can consult with Mr, Golchin, a world-class London-based rhinoplasty nose job surgeon. He will collaborate with you to develop a personalised plan tailored to your needs and desires.

He uses 3D photography to capture the whole face before any treatment. This way, patients can get a realistic visual of what their new nose will look like after the surgery.

The cosmetic nose surgery procedure itself typically lasts from one to three hours, depending on the specific requirements.

There are two primary approaches to nose job surgery: internal (closed) and external (open).

Open rhinoplasty

In cases with more complexity, such as a crooked nose or abnormalities in the nasal tip, the surgeon may opt for open rhinoplasty. This approach involves making an incision on the vertical strip that separates the nostrils, known as the columella.

While the scars from an open rhinoplasty are visible, they are generally not very noticeable. In Mr Golchin’s practice, open rhinoplasty is typically reserved for quite complex cases.

Closed rhinoplasty

Mr Golchin usually opts for the internal approach where suitable. This technique is the more common of the two. Here, the rhinoplasty surgeons make incisions inside the patient’s nostrils during the nose reshaping surgery.

This means that any resulting scars are hidden within the nose, making them virtually invisible.

Closed rhinoplasty is often chosen for simpler cases, like addressing a deviated septum or correcting minor issues with the nasal tip.

Post-rhinoplasty care

After your rhinoplasty surgery in London, the surgeon usually takes steps to ensure your nose heals well. A special plaster is applied to your nose to safeguard and maintain its new shape. It also helps with swelling after the surgery.

In cases where the rhino tip surgery involves straightening the nasal septum, soft nasal splints may be gently placed inside your nostrils. These splints help stabilise the septum, which is the central part of your nose.

Recovering from rhinoplasty surgery

The time it takes to recover from this cosmetic surgery can vary from person to person and considerations should be made for each individuals medical history.  Several factors influence the duration and experience of the recovery:

• The specific method used by the surgeon.
• Some people naturally swell and bruise more than others, affecting recovery time.
• Your age, overall health, and the thickness of your skin all play a role in how quickly you recover.
• Whether it’s your first rhinoplasty or a revision, or if you’ve combined it with other procedures, all these aspects influence your recovery.

Overall, closed rhinoplasty tends to have a shorter recovery period compared to open rhinoplasty. However, if you’ve combined your rhinoplasty with other procedures, such as a neck lift or a facelift, the recovery time may be longer.

People undergoing revision surgery often have a lengthier healing process than those having the surgery for the first time.

Permanent results and minimised scarring in rhinoplasty

Now that we’ve explored the process and procedure of rhinoplasty let’s address the questions of whether your nose job results are permanent and whether scarring is a concern.

Rhinoplasty is indeed a long-term solution. The results of this surgery are typically permanent, lasting for your entire life. This is why it’s crucial to select a skilled rhinoplasty practitioner like Mr Golchin, who can deliver the results you desire. An experienced plastic surgeon can craft consistent and enduring results that stand the test of time.

However, while a nose job is permanent, unforeseen events like accidents or illnesses can impact your nose. In case of such incidents, it’s essential to consult with your plastic surgeon for guidance on the best course of action. The goal is for your nose job to not only look good in the immediate aftermath but to remain amazing over the years to come.

Immediately after your surgery, you will experience swelling and bruising, and your nose may appear larger than the final result, but eventually, it will settle down.

Scarring concerns

Visible Scarring is the body’s natural response to any injury, whether it’s a deliberate incision made during surgery or an accidental cut. When the skin is injured, the body creates scar tissue as a part of the healing process. This scar tissue is made up of collagen fibres that help repair and replace damaged tissue.

The extent and type of nose surgery, as well as the patient’s unique healing response, can all influence the degree of scarring.

Factors such as the surgical technique, the surgeon’s skill and experience, and the patient’s individual healing tendencies all play a role. Some individuals may be more prone to developing noticeable scarring, while others might have a genetic predisposition to form hypertrophic scars.

Mr Golchin occasionally prescribes medications during the postoperative period to help reduce scar tissue and allow for further refinement of the nasal tip in the months following surgery.

The best part is that, in most cases, scarring after rhinoplasty surgery is minimal. It can also be managed effectively with proper care and attention. Rhinoplasty patients can take steps to minimise scarring and promote optimal healing by following their surgeon’s instructions and looking after themselves during the recovery period.

Scarring in closed and open rhinoplasty

As mentioned earlier, the extent and type of nose surgery or plastic surgery will define the extent of visible scarring.

Closed rhinoplasty scars 

The surgeon makes incisions inside your nostrils to access the nasal cartilage and bones in this method. Hence, the advantage is that there are no visible scars on the outside of your nose.

Open rhinoplasty scars

Here, the plastic surgeon makes a small incision along the strip of skin between your nostrils, called the columella. This allows them to lift the skin and access the nasal structure underneath.

While an external incision is involved in open rhinoplasty, the long-term outcome is often more important than the temporary appearance of the scar. With proper care and attention, the scar will usually heal nicely and become less visible over time.

Reducing visible scarring after nose surgery

To reduce the risk of scarring and promote optimal healing, it’s crucial to follow your surgeon’s instructions, both before and after the procedure. Here are some tips that patients will find helpful in minimising scarring after rhinoplasty.

• Sun Protection: Avoid direct sun exposure to your nose, as UV rays can make scars more noticeable. If you can’t avoid the sun, use approved sunscreen on your nose.
• Healthy Diet: Eating a well-balanced diet can promote healing. Foods rich in vitamins A, C, and E support healthy connective tissue growth. Staying well-hydrated is also essential.
• Quit Smoking: Smoking increases the risk of scarring. If you smoke, it’s advised to quit at least two weeks before and after surgery to aid healing and reduce scarring.
• Minimise Touching: Avoid touching your nose too frequently for at least two weeks after surgery. This helps prevent infection and reduces the risk of scarring.
• Scar Massage: If your surgeon advises it, gentle scar massage can sometimes help break down scar tissue.
• Silicone Gel or Sheets: Your surgeon may recommend using silicone, which is known to soften and flatten scars. If recommended, you may apply silicone gel or sheets to the incision site to help minimise scarring.
• Follow-Up: Regular follow-up appointments with your rhinoplasty surgeons are important for monitoring your progress and detecting any signs of excessive scarring early so they can be addressed promptly.

By following these recommendations and your surgeon’s guidance, you can help ensure a smoother and less scar-prone healing process after your rhinoplasty.

Dealing with lingering rhinoplasty scars

In most cases, rhinoplasty scars tend to fade and become less noticeable over time. However, if you find that your rhinoplasty scar still bothers you after the healing process is complete, there are a couple of options to explore.

Steroid Injections: Your nose surgeons may suggest carefully targeted steroid injections to help reduce the appearance of the scar. This is a less invasive option that can be effective in minimising scar visibility.

Revision Rhinoplasty: In some instances, a revision rhinoplasty may be considered to address and remove scar tissue. While this is not typically the first choice, it can be an option if other methods prove ineffective or if there are specific concerns about the scar.

Consider filler rhinoplasty

If you’re still uncertain about undergoing traditional rhinoplasty or have concerns about scarring, there’s an alternative to explore. Mr Golchin, one of the best rhinoplasty surgeons, offers a non-surgical solution known as filler rhinoplasty.

This approach is non-invasive and involves the use of Dermal Fillers to reshape your nose and address specific concerns. It can be an excellent way to visualise the potential changes to your nose before committing to a surgical procedure. The effects of filler rhinoplasty are not permanent, typically lasting around 9 to 12 months.

It provides an opportunity to test the waters and see if you’re satisfied with the results before opting for a more permanent surgical approach.

Choosing the right rhinoplasty surgeon

Selecting a rhinoplasty surgeon is a crucial decision that demands careful consideration. It’s evident that minimising scar tissue is, in part, dependent on the expertise and skill of your chosen surgeon for the surgical procedure.

It’s wise to invest time in researching the surgeon’s credentials, reading reviews, and evaluating their approach to patient-centred care. Look for a board-certified surgeon who takes the time to explain the procedure thoroughly, answers your questions, and possesses a highly qualified yet approachable bedside manner. Make sure to clarify all your surgical rhinoplasty requirements during your initial consultation.

Mr Golchin embodies all these qualities. If you seek reliable nose surgery in London, book your consultation now.