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Rhinoplasty Brisbane

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Rhinoplasty serves two purposes: changing the shape and size of the nose for aesthetic reasons and correcting breathing issues for patients with congenital nasal abnormalities or those who have experienced trauma, such as a broken nose. The procedure involves restructuring the bone and cartilage to create a nose shape that harmonises with the patient’s facial features and increases airflow.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that modifies the shape, size, or structure of the nose. This procedure can address functional issues such as breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum, as well as correct deformities resulting from trauma or congenital disabilities. Rhinoplasty involves reshaping the bone, cartilage, and skin of the nose.

Rhinoplasty with Dr Broadhurst

“I pride myself on the individual care and support I provide each of my patients. From your first consultation, I will work one-on-one with you to tailor a treatment plan to suit your body, fit your lifestyle and achieve the enhanced look you’ve been dreaming of.”

Meet Dr Broadhurst

Consultation

Your Initial Consultation

During your initial consultation, Dr Broadhurst will ask you questions about your medical history, discuss any breathing difficulties and examine your nose and facial structure.

You will also discuss the changes you’d like to make to your nose and customise your treatment plan accordingly. After the consultation, Dr Broadhurst will provide you with edited images so you can visualise the potential post-surgery results.

It’s important to understand that rhinoplasty can alter the shape of your nose but not give you an entirely new nose. Dr Broadhurst will explain the procedure, discuss what to expect during recovery, and outline the post-surgery period.

Your Second Consultation

You will see Dr Broadhurst for a second face-to-face consultation at our Brisbane, Sunshine Coast, Hervey Bay, or Bundaberg locations.

This appointment is scheduled to ensure that you fully understand the procedure, allowing you to ask any additional questions and confirm your choice of rhinoplasty option. Dr Broadhurst will address any questions or concerns you may have.

Procedure

What to expect during the procedure?

During the rhinoplasty procedure, patients can expect to undergo anaesthesia, either local with sedation or general, to minimise discomfort. The surgeon will then make incisions, typically inside the nostrils or across the columella, to access the bone and cartilage. These structures are then reshaped or repositioned according to the surgical plan. Once the adjustments are complete, the incisions are closed, and a splint is applied to support the new shape of the nose during the initial healing phase.

Types of Rhinoplasty

Open Rhinoplasty

Open Rhinoplasty 01, BPS

During open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made across the columella between the nostrils, close to the upper lip. This incision is connected to small incisions within the rim of the nostrils. This allows the skin to be lifted and completely separated from the underlying tissues that form the nasal structure.

Open rhinoplasty provides Dr Broadhurst with a full view of the nasal structures and allows for more precise nose reconstruction, including the position and size of the tip.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed Rhinoplasty 01, BPS

In closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nose to lift the skin off the underlying nasal tissue, which includes bone, cartilage, and connective tissue. This allows the septum lining to be cut and lifted. The septum and cartilages can be adjusted, and the skin repositioned to fit the new structure.

Expected Results

After rhinoplasty, you may experience difficulty breathing through your nose for about six weeks due to swelling. The results will start to become noticeable as the swelling decreases and the nasal splint is removed 7-10 days after the surgery.
The bruising should go away within two weeks, and most of the swelling will subside within two months. However, it may take up to 12 months for all the swelling to completely disappear, which is normal considering the delicate nature of the nose. Patience is essential during this healing process.

The bridge of your nose will require ample time to heal after the procedure, and we advise you not to wear glasses or sunglasses for four to six weeks. If you previously experienced difficulties breathing through your nose, you can expect an increased air intake once the swelling goes down shortly after the surgery.

How much does Rhinoplasty cost in Brisbane?

The cost of rhinoplasty surgery is quite varied, as every patient has different needs and concerns. The following factors will influence the overall cost of the procedure:

1. Surgeon’s fees

The cost of rhinoplasty is mainly determined by the surgeon’s fees, which can vary significantly from one plastic surgeon to another. The price reflects the surgeon’s expertise, professional qualifications, and experience. Rhinoplasty is considered one of the most challenging procedures for most surgeons, as it requires a high level of precision. Even small changes can have significant positive or negative effects. The cost can also be influenced by the type of rhinoplasty being performed, as more complex procedures require greater expertise, skill, and time in the operating room.

2. Anaesthetist’s fees

An anaesthetist’s fees during rhinoplasty include the cost of the anaesthesia itself, as well as the anaesthetist’s time and expertise in administering the medication and monitoring the patient’s vital signs throughout the procedure. These fees cover the pre-operative assessment, the actual administration of anaesthesia, and continuous monitoring to ensure the patient’s safety and comfort during surgery. Post-operative care immediately following the procedure is also part of the anaesthetist’s responsibilities.

3. Hospital fees

Hospital fees during rhinoplasty typically include the cost of using the operating room, medical supplies, and equipment necessary for the procedure. These fees also cover the nursing staff and post-operative care in the recovery room. Additionally, hospital fees may encompass pre-operative tests and any required overnight stay, if necessary, to monitor the patient’s initial recovery.

Please be aware that other costs may be included, such as a consultation fee, aftercare costs, and costs for medical tests if required.

Recovery

Recovery after Rhinoplasty

Full recovery from a rhinoplasty can take up to a year, which is vital for patients to understand before undergoing the procedure. You should be prepared to take up to two weeks off from work and daily activities. Pain, swelling, bruising, and tenderness around the nose area will be the most prominent for the first two weeks post-surgery. Most of these symptoms should subside after a couple of weeks, and you will start to notice your new nose shape.

Immediately following the procedure, a splint will be applied to support your new nose shape, and the surgical site will be covered in bandages to provide protection. These will need to stay in place for one week, after which they will be removed along with any stitches.

To promote healing and prevent complications, patients need to follow these aftercare instructions:

  • Avoid strenuous exercise for up to six weeks.
  • Keep your head elevated at night for six weeks.
  • Use cold compresses for the first 72 hours post-surgery, but avoid placing them directly on the nose.
  • Get plenty of rest and maintain a healthy diet.
  • Avoid saunas, hot showers, hot spas, and hot foods – hot temperatures will exacerbate swelling.
  • Do not blow your nose for six weeks – your nose may feel congested or stuffy after surgery due to the swelling but resist the urge as this will delay healing.
  • Do not wear any glasses – any pressure on your nose can cause additional swelling, bruising, or indentations.
  • Avoid direct, prolonged sun exposure.
  • The plaster will be removed at your first post-operative appointment ten days after surgery.
  • Do not blow your nose for four weeks.

Procedure Risks & Complications

Any cosmetic or medical procedure has associated risks and complications that could potentially occur, and being aware of them is vital to making an informed decision.

Potential associated risks and complications of rhinoplasty include:

  • Anaesthesia complications
  • Changes in skin sensation
  • Poor scarring
  • Poor wound healing
  • Infection
  • Difficulty breathing
  • Skin discolouration
  • Swelling/bruising
  • New asymmetry
  • Persistent asymmetry
  • Reduced nasal tip sensation
  • Post-op airway limitation
  • Impaired or lost sense of smell
  • Necrosis
  • Lip numbness
  • Septal perforation

Frequently Asked Questions

Does rhinoplasty cause discomfort?

Rhinoplasty can cause some discomfort, particularly in the initial days following the procedure. Patients may experience swelling, bruising, and pain around the nose and eyes, which can be managed with prescribed pain medications and cold compresses. It’s normal to feel some level of congestion and pressure as the nose heals.

Does Medicare cover rhinoplasty?

If the surgery is for reconstructive purposes, such as correcting deformities or major nose traumas, or is required to fix breathing issues, then part of the costs may be eligible to be covered by Medicare. However, you will need to check the criteria to make sure you qualify and may require a referral from a specialist before booking a consultation.

How does a rhinoplasty address breathing issues?

Rhinoplasty addresses breathing issues by correcting structural problems within the nose, such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or collapsed nasal valves. The surgeon reshapes or repositions these internal structures to open up the nasal passages, allowing for increased airflow.

Am I able to travel and fly after rhinoplasty?

You cannot travel or go on long flights for at least four weeks after surgery. This restriction is due to the need for proper healing and to avoid complications such as increased swelling or bleeding, which can be exacerbated by changes in air pressure.