Nose Surgery

Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is a surgery that changes the shape of the nose. The nose can be altered in a number of ways to suit the patient's aesthetic goals. The changes that can be made to the nose depend on what characteristics one is born with, so it is important that you have a thorough, realistic, and informative consultation with Dr. Parson, and that you have an accurate concept of what can be done surgically.

The First Office Visit
Dr. Parson will take a medical history and do a directed physical examination of your nose and other facial features during your visit. This will involve identifying functional issues as well as cosmetic issues of concern to you. It is important for you to provide us with any history of trauma or surgery that you have had to your nose. You should inform the doctor of any seasonal allergy problems that you have.

After examining your nose, inside and outside, Dr. Parson will generally want to discuss your surgical options with you.

Risks of Rhinoplasty
Complications of nasal surgery are infrequent and usually minor. Nevertheless, there is always a possibility of complications, including infection, bleeding, or a reaction to the anesthetic or sedative medications. After surgery, small blood vessels may appear beneath the skin which may require treatment. The surgery is performed either using incisions on the inside of the nose, so no visible scars are present, or under certain circumstances, at the base of the nose, the "open approach". The "open approach" allows better visualization of certain internal structures of the nose.

The Pre-Operative Period
It is imperative that patients refrain from ingesting any medications or other substances which could potentially be the cause of surgical complications. A list of medications should be reviewed and discontinued at least 2 weeks prior to operation. Patients are seen 1 to 2 weeks prior to their surgery date for a general physical examination to ensure that no underlying medical problems exist which may interfere with the safety of their surgery. Prophylactic antibiotics are prescribed. A prescription for pain medication is also written so that you have your pain pills when you return home from the operation. The digital photographs taken at the first consultation will be reviewed with you. This is an important opportunity to make very clear your planned aesthetic goals.

We generally take post-operative photographs at 3 to 6 months after your procedure. You will be asked to sign a surgical consent which enumerates the risks of the procedure in detail. These risks will be explained at the consultation.

You will need to arrange for an escort to drive you to and from the surgery center. Patients cannot operate motor vehicles after surgery, and we will not place recently sedated patients into taxis for transport home. We can arrange for medical transport in the event you cannot find an escort. It is mandatory to have someone stay with you for at least 24 hours after surgery for your comfort and safety.