Short Nose

Correction of Short Nose

The length of the nose is the distance from the radix (the root of the nose) to the tip-defining point at the nasal tip. As a simplistic guide, the nose’s ideal length is one-third of the face’s vertical height. A short nose is one that extends less than this distance. Other conditions such as an over-rotated nose (with upturned tip), under-projected nose tip, increased nostril shows, alar rim retraction, and a flat nose bridge may be present together with the short nose.

It is possible to correct a simple short nose with the nose implant. On the other hand, a short nose with severe upturned tip and nostril show will require more elaborate correction procedures. This usually necessitates an open rhinoplasty procedure to release the existing internal structures and to lengthen the nose with the use of cartilage grafts.

Preparation

1. 1. 1. Inform the doctor of any pre-existing medical conditions and drug allergy. All medical conditions must be treated and stabilized before surgery.

      2. Stop smoking at least one week before surgery. Smoking is harmful to wound healing and increases the risks of other post-operation complications.

      3. Stop the following medications and supplements from one week before surgery until one week after surgery.

         1. All supplements containing vitamin E, ginseng, ginkgo, garlic, fish oil, and other ingredients that increase bleeding during the procedure. Other supplements, traditional medicine, and herbs, in which ingredients are unknown, have to stop as well.

         2. Medicine that increases bleeding during the procedure such as aspirin, NSAIDs, and warfarin. However, you may need to consult your physician who prescribed the medication before you stop them.

      4. On the day of surgery, wear simple and comfortable clothing. Do not wear any makeup. Do not wear any jewelry and metal objects on the face and body.

      5. Don’t wear glasses on the day of surgery.

Surgery

Duration: 1-3 hours

Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia

Hospitalization: Not required.

Recovery*: Back to work in 3-7 days, light exercise after 2 weeks, heavy exercise after 3-4 weeks. * The actual speed of recovery may vary from person to person.

Surgery Technique*: The exact technique to use depends on the preexisting condition and the severity of the short nose. Nose implant can correct a mild and simple short nose. On the other hand, a short nose with severe upturned tip and nostril show will require an open rhinoplasty procedure. The existing internal structures need to be released so that the nose can be lengthened effectively with cartilage grafts.

Post-operative Care**

1. 1. 1. What to expect: Swelling usually peaks on the second to third day after surgery and will gradually subside after that. Post-operative pain is usually minimal.

      2. General care:

         1. Apply the cold pack in the first 3 days. Elevate the head during sleep to reduce swelling.

         2. Avoid smoking for at least one month. Smoking increases the risk of wound complications.

         3. Good rest and adequate sleep are helpful for a speedy recovery.

         4. Avoid applying pressure on the nose. Sleep on the back and do not sleep on one side to avoid pressure on the nose.

         5. Do not pick the nostrils with a finger. Instead, use a cotton tip to clean the nose.

         6. Be relaxed and calm. Contact the clinic if there are any queries.

      3. Medicine: Finish the oral antibiotics as prescribed. Take the painkiller as when necessary.

      4. Wound care: Clean the wound with a clean cotton tip soaked with sterile water/saline. Apply antibiotic ointment. No wound dressings are required. Remove the adhesive strips applied on the nose after 3 days.

      5. Physical activity: Avoid heavy physical activity and exercise for at least one month.

      6. Follow-up: Come back one week after surgery for suture removal and review.

      7. Emergency: If there is heavy bleeding, a rapid increase in swelling or severe pain, contact the clinic/doctor for advice immediately.

** The instructions in this list are only for general guidance. If you have any specific queries or concerns during the post-operative recovery, please contact the clinic for further advice.