Rhinoplasty in Malta

The first thing to understand is that a nose-job is not a complete change of one's nose to get someone else's but the improvement of one's physical defects. Nowadays the trend is for surgeons avoid giving the patient a 'surgical'-looking nose that looks artificial (as though the person has had surgery) and do their best to give a natural-looking nose.

The preoperative consultation is very important. Here the patient meets the surgeon to discuss possibilities and expectations. Generally most patient expectations can be met, although not all changes are possible. Sometimes the patient's wishes may risk compromising breathing and he/she would be advised accordingly. A patient who is specific as to what he/she dislikes about his/her nose is a great help to the surgeon. Any functional surgery required (sinus surgery to remove pain or nasal discharge, correction of blocked nose) would also be discussed as and if required would be carried out at the same time. The patient should feel comfortable with and feel confident in his/her surgeon.

Occasionally, the surgeon may feel that he/she may not be able to help an individual with deep-seated psychological conditions and in these cases a referral to a colleague may be the best option instead of surgery. Preoperative blood tests and photos are done as a routine.

The Operation
There are two main ways of carrying out a rhinoplasty – first by using a completely internal approach and second by making a small incision below the nasal tip. The second option is used especially if one of the aims of the operation is to improve the nasal tip. This small incision usually disappears within a few weeks.

An approach is made inside the nose in both nostrils and instruments are passed up to sculpt and modify the cartilages and bone of the nose. Once the nose has been altered to the required position, it is held in place with a rigid splint. Nasal packing is very rarely used by this author so the pain and bleeding associated with their removal are hardly ever seen. The operation itself is done under general anaesthesia whilst the patient is fast asleep and lasts around 1-2 hours depending on the extent of work to be done. It is generally done as a day case and patients are generally well enough to go home that same evening.

What are the pot ential risks?
The rhinoplasty in itself has few complications, mainly infection and bleeding. Antibiotics are used to prevent infections. One should avoid going to the gym and staying in hot sun since this increases the risks of bleeding. Not every patient heals the same way, and it may take some more time for bruising to disappear. However very rarely, soft tissue healing may be unequal and unexpected distortion of the nose may occur, needing further corrective surgery.

What am I to expect after the operation?
It is likely that there will be bruising around the nose. You may develop 'black eyes' as well and will experience some pain, but this is not normally very severe. Your splint will stay on for one week and then removed together with the sutures. Your nose will feel blocked until it is cleaned at this time. You will be asked to apply some cream or ointment over the sutures and will be advised not to lift heavy objects and stay away from smoky or dusty areas. Make sure no one accidentally hits your nose!

How long wil I be off work / school?
Two weeks off is required. Patients who travel for a Rhinoplasty need at least one week post-operatively in the country.

Will there be any scars?
No. The only cut made in the skin is small and does not produce visible scars.

Patients are advised to discuss their medical condition and any indications for medical treatment or surgery with their general practitioner or the specialist who is delivering health care. This article is designed to help with frequently asked questions and does not take any responsibility for specific patients.