Rhinoplasty
A rhinoplasty, or “nose job,” is surgery to correct functional or cosmetic deformities of the nose. As a board-certified Head and Neck surgeon, Dr. Sethna is trained not only in the artistry of rhinoplasty, but also in maintaining or restoring nasal function. Nasal surgery, both functional and cosmetic, involves a marriage of science and art. Dr. Sethna combines surgical precision with the vision necessary to achieve her patients’ desired outcomes.
Rhinoplasty surgery is performed under general anesthesia at a surgery center in the same building as the Emory Facial Center and usually takes 3–3.5 hours. The procedure involves correcting the shape and orientation of the septum (the bone and cartilage between the two sides of the nose), raising the skin envelope, and correcting bony or cartilaginous irregularities to improve any pre-existing asymmetry.
Soft rubber splints may be placed inside the nose, and a plastic splint may be placed on the outside for seven days to provide support during healing. It is important for patients to recognize that patience is of the utmost importance during the first few weeks after rhinoplasty. Patients typically experience discomfort and nasal congestion for the first week after rhinoplasty surgery, but prescription pain medications will significantly reduce discomfort. Swelling typically decreases significantly in the first 1– 3 weeks but can remain to some degree for up to a year before the final result is achieved.
