What are the risks associated with Rhinoplasty?
As with any surgery, there are possible risks to consider. It is well known that surgical complications happen infrequently. Although they are more likely in patients with a compromised immune system, bleeding disorders or conditions that interfere with wound healing, the patient should be aware of them.
The risks that may occur following rhinoplasty are:
Infection
It happens in less than one percent of the cases. If the patient experiences pain or redness following the surgery, the surgeon should be told straight away. The patient is given antibiotics in order to prevent this risk.
Bleeding and haematoma
This occurs immediately after the operation and is expected to stop in a few hours. This is normal bleeding. However, a blood clot may form under the skin or between the skin and cartilage. A return visit to the surgery is necessary then. If the patient experiences serious pain after the surgery, the surgeon should be notified as soon as possible.
Eye injury?
This may occur because of the damage to the tear drainage apparatus during the operation performance. Eye injury can be avoided by carefully protecting the eyes during the surgery.
Intracranial Complications
Meningitis (an infection in the cranial cavity) is a possible complication due to the nasal injuries caused by rhinoplasty. As soon as the meningitis symptoms (severe headaches, neck stiffness or intolerance to light) are recognised, the surgeon must be urgently informed.
Skin problems
This complication is minor and temporary. The skin may be affected by the tape that is applied to the nose beneath the splint.
Broken capillaries/small thread veins
This condition may already exist on the nose and can be treated with laser.
Scarring
The small incisions on the columella and nostrils will heal very well, so the scars will be hardly visible. They are almost unnoticeable after one month.
Bone irregularities
These may occur because of the nasal bone reshaping. It is recommended to wait at least one year before having repeat surgery.
Nasal obstruction
This complication is very rare and is due to the temporary decrease in the nasal airway; however, it may disappear in a few weeks and months. If not, the surgeon will recommend the right treatment or maybe a new operation together with an E.N.T. surgeon.
A retracted or hanging columella
This may require a second operation operation.
Decreased sense of smell
This is rather a theoretical possibility and may be a potential source of irritation.
Dark circles under the eyes
They may occur as a result of the blood pigments retention in the skin around the eyes. Fortunately, there are special creams that can bleach the skin and makeup can be used as well. In time, the darkness beneath the eyes will improve, depending on each patient.
What else should I know about risks and complications?
Patients should be aware that risks may more often occur among persons who smoke, are overweight, have diabetes or other health problems.
What happens if permanent damage occurs?
You might need further surgery to correct the problem.
Find out more
Only through an in-depth discussion with your surgeon will you be able to understand the risks, benefits and expected outcomes of this procedure.
If you would like to find out more about rhinoplasty or arrange a consultation, contact us today on 08707 606 555, or by completing our online enquiry form for an immediate response.