Frequently asked questions

Why do we have Rhinoplasties?

The nose dominates the centre of the face and some find the size and shape unattractive, especially if it is the subject of unflattering comments. Injury often leaves it’s mark and difficulties with breathing. The most frequent problems are a bony hump and prominent tip which are considered masculine features which are not appreciated by ladies, or men who are the butt of jokes. The vast majority of rhinoplasty patients just want a normal, average nose.

Am I a suitable candidate?

The best candidates are healthy, well motivated and psychologically stable and content. The most important thing is to be certain what you wish for, so bring in a photograph which will give me an idea of how you imagine it should be and I will tell you what is possible. For instance, I cannot make a tiny nose from a very large thick skinned one.

What does the operation involve?

The incisions are inside the nostrils (occasionally excess skin is removed to reduce nostril size) and then any bump removed with a delicate chisel. The nasal bones are then cracked to narrow the bridgeline and problems caused by trauma are then addressed. The cartilages are reduced and reshaped to refine the tip. The lining is closed with dissolving sutures, a pack put in the nostrils to stop bleeding and a plaster cast applied to control swelling.

What anaesthetic do I need?

It is usual to have a general anaesthetic and an overnight stay for Rhinoplasty, but minor adjustments can be done with a local anaesthetic as an outpatient procedure.

How long does the operation take?

A straightforward rhinoplasty takes about 60 minutes.

What happens after surgery?

The worst part of rhinoplasty is having to breathe through your mouth (as if you have a cold) until the packs come out the next morning. Most are surprised how little pain they experience and how little bruising is present. (The bruising may come out later!) It is usual to rest in hospital overnight and I will check you again and remove the packs before you go home.

What can go wrong?

There can be problems with any operation, namely - Bleeding, Infection, Nerve damage and Scars. There are also special problems with Rhinoplasty, namely removing too much or not enough, which may mean a minor revision procedure a year or more later (which is why it is so important to know what you want before surgery). The nose is a complicated structure and the outcome is never completely predictable. Significant problems are rare and the consultation includes a full analysis of all these possibilities, their likelihood and what you can do to minimise the risks.

What can I do when I get home?

The most important post-operative message is to be very careful for the first week (at least), problems can occur if you do not rest properly and allow things to heal up inside. Do not lift anything heavier than a kettle and ‘keep your head above your heart’, that is, do not stoop unnecessarily and sleeping propped up on extra pillows reduces swelling. It is at least four weeks before you can start significant exercise. Most have very little post-operative pain and are tempted to overdo things, but you must resist this and be very careful.

What about the plaster?

The plaster cast is removed at 1 week and is a simple procedure, although everyone worries about it! Any bruising should be fading but although you will see the new profile, the nose tip will still be swollen and far from it’s final result.

When can I go back to work?

This varies with occupations, but you should have at least two weeks clear of major commitments. If you overdo things you can pop a blood vessel and cause more bleeding or bruising.

When am I back to normal?

There is considerable variation in return to normal but most patients venture into the world after two weeks, but be prepared to be flexible about this should you get more swelling than average. Final settling of the scar under the skin in the tip of the nose takes a year or more and you must be patient for the final result.

Summary

Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular aesthetic surgery procedures and the vast majority of patients are delighted with their final result and increased self confidence.

I have two rules of Cosmetic Surgery

1. - If in doubt – don’t!

2.- Always talk to real experts.

In other words, be sure that you want to undergo surgery for your own reasons and talk to people who really know about the surgery, that is other patients or an experienced Plastic Surgeon. Many think they know all about Rhinoplasty but in reality don’t and are likely to give you inaccurate and misleading information. This surgery changes many lives for the better but on rare occasions can have the opposite effect, so make sure you are an expert yourself before you decide. Everyone you know loves you whatever your nose is like, it’s how you feel about yourself that matters!

How Many Rhinoplasties does Mr Levick perform?

In accordance with the National Healthcare Commission guidelines, the annual audit figures of the Priory Hospital show that in the last five years (2004-2008) Mr Levick has carried out 143 Rhinoplasties.