Nose correction

When is it indicated?

Abnormalities of the external nose can cause breathing problems. Certain abnormalities of the internal nose require an external nose correction.

The goal of the procedure is to:

• ensure good nasal breathing through an external and internal nose correction. .
• balance the nose as much as possible with the face

Process

We always take photos of your face in various positions before the procedure.

There is no standard procedure; we always use an individualised approach.

On the basis of the abnormality, the physician decides what sort of procedure will be performed.

There are two possibilities:

• Closed nose correction: normally you only have a little scar afterwards.
• Open nose correction: after the procedure, you will have an external scar on the underside of your nose. You may sometimes have a scar on the side of your nose.

Preparation

It is important to follow the following guidelines before the procedure.

• Please arrive at the hospital fasting.
• Clear drinks may be consumed up to two hours before the procedure.
• Do not wear any make-up and remove any piercings.
• Please come clean-shaven.
• Inform your physician if you take blood thinners or medication for acne.

After the procedure

After the procedure, you will have little to no pain. You nose will have a cast and will be packed with special packing material. You will be given a pair of ice glasses to wear in order to bring down any swelling.

• The day after your procedure, the packing will be removed.
• Any plates will be removed from your nasal septum after five days at the clinic.
• The cast and any sutures that were placed will be removed one week after the procedure.
  
• Internal sutures will be removed three weeks after the procedure.

Results

After three months, we can start to gradually evaluate the external result. Nasal breathing should be optimal at this point. There is a final check-up one year after the procedure.

Guidelines for at home

• You will have little to no pain. If this is not the case, please inform your physician.
• The swelling around your eyes will subside gradually during the first two weeks.
• You may treat nasal congestion with nasal rinses and nasal spray.
• You will get antibiotics to use on the procedure site.
• You cannot wear glasses for the first eight weeks after the procedure.
• During the first eight weeks, you should not play any contact or ball sports. You should also be careful after the first eight weeks have passed.
• Protect your face from the sun: you should use a SPF 50+ suncream for a year.
• You may not work during the first two weeks after the procedure.
• We recommend that you refrain from traveling during the first three weeks after the procedure.

Latest publication date: 06/02/2024
Supervising author: Dr Vermeiren Judith, Dr Vertriest Rudolf