The nose is one of the most prominent features of the face and one of the most important criteria for its beauty, as its size affects the overall appearance, and may cause embarrassment to its owner if it is disproportionate. Therefore, some may resort to rhinoplasty to hide defects. In this article, we will review all the details related to rhinoplasty through the Dalili Medical website, including the steps of the operation and its complications.

**When does the nose stop growing?**

 

The nose continues to grow during childhood, adolescence and early adulthood, but it stops at a certain age. Researchers have differed about the specific age at which growth stops, as some indicated that it stops at the age of 12, while others said that it stops at 16 or 17 years. Others believe that most bone structures, including the nose, reach their final size approximately by the age of twenty. Differences in gender and race may explain these differences. Regardless of the age at which growth stops, the increase in the size of the nose that some people notice with age is not the result of bone growth, as the only bones that continue to grow between the ages of 20 and 79 are the skull and pelvis, which may gain only one inch in diameter over these years.

**Is rhinoplasty really dangerous for teenagers?**

Yes, if the operation is performed on the nose of young people before reaching a certain age, they may face problems that are difficult to treat in the future. Performing any cosmetic surgery on the nose at these ages may lead to the deformity of the nose and negatively affect the growth of other parts of the face. Flattening the nose and asymmetry are the most prominent complications of rhinoplasty at an early age. Therefore, it is necessary to know the appropriate age group for rhinoplasty.

**Maximum age for rhinoplasty**

Rhinoplasty is also common in middle age, as people still have a great desire to improve the beauty and harmony of their nose with the shape of their face. As they age, this desire decreases, as hormonal changes, inactivity, fatigue, and skin changes greatly affect the decision to undergo the operation.

**Disadvantages of rhinoplasty at 17 and under**

 

Teenagers and young adults still lack a clear vision of their future, and their decisions are often emotional and temporary. Therefore, it is not expected that a teenager will be able to make the right decision regarding rhinoplasty. In addition, the shape of the nose is still in the formation stage, making a decision at this stage may lead to regret later. Therefore, it is advisable not to perform rhinoplasty for anyone at an early age, as manipulating the shape of the nose during adolescence may be futile, because the nasal structures grow and stabilize completely within a few months or years, which may lead to failure of the operation.

**What is the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?**

 

Open rhinoplasty: The doctor makes an incision along the nasal septum, which allows him to see the nasal tissues more clearly and have a wider entry area. This method is suitable for cases that require comprehensive restoration.

Closed rhinoplasty: The incision is made from inside the nose, which reduces the doctor's vision but does not leave visible scars. This method is preferred in cases of minor changes. After choosing the appropriate method, the doctor determines the shape of the nose according to the patient's expectations and makes the necessary adjustments, such as determining the width and length of the nose, restoring its symmetry, and correcting a deviated nasal septum.

**How ​​does the shape of the nose change with age?**

 

To determine how the nose changes over time, the researchers conducted 3D analyses of images of about 700 Caucasian participants between the ages of 20 and 80. Several nasal parameters were examined, such as the height and length of the nasal bridge, the lengths of the nostrils, the prominence of the nasal tip relative to its height, the width of the nose, and the angles of the tip. The data were then sorted by age and gender. The results showed that all measurements were significantly affected by age, with the most prominent changes being a downward slope of the nose, a reduction in the distance between the nose and the mouth, and an increase in the width of the nostrils, which leads to an increase in the size of the nose to appear larger and longer over time.

**What is Rhinoplasty?**

 

Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery (rhinoplasty), is a surgical procedure that aims to modify the shape and appearance of the nose to improve its balance with the facial features and meet the patient's desires. The goals of rhinoplasty vary between aesthetic and functional aspects, and are divided into three types:

1. **Rhinoplasty**: This procedure is considered one of the easiest types, as the doctor focuses on beautifying the rhinoplasty only, in addition to the nostrils if necessary.

2. **Full Rhinoplasty**: This procedure includes beautifying the entire nose, including the rhinoplasty, the back of the nose and its width, in addition to modifying the nostrils if necessary. It also includes the functional aspect, such as modifying the nasal septum or removing polyps if necessary.

3. **Reconstructive Rhinoplasty**: This procedure often requires the use of cartilage from other areas such as the ear or chest, and is usually used as a restorative procedure, such as rhinoplasty associated with cleft lip. It is also used for rhinoplasty if the patient has had a previous operation and is not satisfied with the results or if there are problems.

**How ​​to check before the operation**

 

3D imaging is used to show the shape of the nose from four angles using a precise device designed for this purpose. The doctor displays the case and makes the necessary adjustments so that the patient can see the potential result of the operation before the procedure, which helps him make an informed decision about the operation. The results are often similar to what the patient sees, and may be better than expected.

**When do the results of rhinoplasty appear?**

 

After completing the procedures of the operation and ensuring its safety by your doctor, you should avoid rushing to wait for the results. Swelling is one of the main side effects of the operation due to the surgical incisions 

So, it is important to wait until the swelling completely disappears. This period usually takes from 6 to 8 months, as the swelling gradually fades until the results of the operation appear clearly.

**When does the swelling of the nose go away after the operation?**

 

It is not possible to specify a specific time for the swelling to disappear after rhinoplasty, as the conditions and effects resulting from each operation vary according to the patient's condition. However, the swelling begins to subside within a period ranging from 6 to 14 weeks after the operation, and may continue for a longer period until it disappears completely, and this period may reach 8 months.

**When does the nose take its final shape after the operation?**

 

The nose takes a not-so-short period to take its final shape after the cosmetic surgery, which is a necessary period to get rid of the effects resulting from the surgery in this sensitive area. The patient is advised to avoid any violent activity or using cosmetics near the nose for two weeks. The swelling resulting from blood and wounds begins to fade within a short period, and completely disappears between 6 to 8 months after the operation. Thus, the nose appears almost new after this period, and it may take a full year in some cases.

**What causes the nose to change shape with age?**

 

The nose and other parts of the body are made up of cartilage, and many people believe that cartilage continues to grow throughout life, but the truth is that it stops growing. However, cartilage is made up of collagen and other fibers that begin to sag with age. The reason for the nose to sag and increase in size over time is due to the effect of gravity. This happens because collagen and elastin, which are responsible for the elasticity of tissues, begin to deteriorate over time, causing the skin to lose its elasticity and strength, and gravity begins to affect the tip of the nose, eyelids, jaw, earlobes, and breasts.

**What structural changes occur to the nose with age?**

 

Over the years, the nose undergoes many structural changes that make it appear longer and larger. The most prominent of these changes are:

- Thinning of the skin of the nose and loss of its elasticity.

- Drooping of the tip of the nose.

- Weakness and softening of the nasal cartilage.

- Ossification of the nasal cartilage, making it fragile like bones.

- Separation of the cartilage pieces that connect the upper and lower parts on both sides of the nose.

**Does a large nose affect health?**

 

The nose is an important part of the respiratory system, as it helps bring warm and moist air into the lungs and enhances the sense of smell. With age, changes may occur in the structure of the nose that lead to gradual blockage, affecting its basic functions. Concern about age-related nose enlargement is not limited to health effects only, but also extends to the discomfort that some may feel about their aesthetic appearance, as the nose is an important aesthetic element for many people. Therefore, some may resort to cosmetic surgeries to improve the appearance of their nose.

**Rhinoplasty and modern techniques**

 

Modern rhinoplasty techniques include:

- **Laser technology**: Laser energy is used to affect tissues without the need to open the skin, allowing the removal or addition of certain details in the shape of the nose.

- **Endoscopic technique**: A small endoscope is inserted through the nostrils to see the internal structures accurately, with surgical intervention performed using precise tools through the same endoscope.

- **Ultrasound Technique**: Ultrasound waves are used to affect cartilage and bone without the need for skin incision.

These techniques are part of the standard rhinoplasty procedures, and the exact details vary depending on the individual patient's condition and the goals of the surgery. The surgeon discusses all aspects of the procedure and its expectations with the patient before performing it to ensure the best possible results.

**Reasons for performing rhinoplasty**

 

The reasons for performing rhinoplasty are divided into two categories: health and aesthetic. Aesthetic reasons include:

- Reducing the nose if it is too large.
- Enlarging the nose if it is too small.
- Changing the angle of the nose in relation to the upper lip.
- Correcting the shape of the tip of the nose.
- Correcting crookedness or other defects in the nose by modifying the overlying skin, cartilage, or bone.

Health reasons include:

- Congenital defects that affect normal breathing or voice.
- A fracture in the nose that affects breathing or causes health problems.
- Enlargement of the sebaceous glands, which leads to an abnormal enlargement of the nose.

**Types of Rhinoplasty**

 

Rhinoplasty surgeries vary depending on the causes of the problem and the desired goals of treatment, and include the following types:

1. **Nasal Reconstruction**: This procedure is used in pathological or cancerous cases that lead to the loss of the nose or deformity in its bones and cartilage. This procedure requires adding bones and cartilage to reshape the nose. These materials are taken from the patient's own body, such as the pelvic bones, ribs, or earlobe, in addition to using skin from nearby or distant areas such as the extremities or abdomen. In some cases, artificial materials such as silicone can be used or an artificial nose can be installed if surgical operations are not possible.

2. **Rhinoplasty**: This procedure is usually performed to improve the appearance of the nose, especially if it is large and affects the person's overall appearance. The procedure involves partially lifting the bones and cartilage of the nose through an invisible incision in the nostrils, and is performed under general or local anesthesia, depending on the case.

3. **Septoplasty**: This procedure aims to correct the deformity of the nasal septum that affects breathing and causes headaches. The septum is modified to be in a better position, which facilitates the breathing process.

4. **Secondary Rhinoplasty**: These procedures are performed if the desired results are not achieved from the previous procedure. They may range from simple adjustments to more complex procedures.

5. **Thread Rhinoplasty**: This procedure uses two types of threads, which are polydioxanone and bo

Lee Caprolactone. These thin threads are used to tighten the tissues inside the nose, helping to rejuvenate its appearance without risks. This procedure is characterized by quick results, as it takes 30-45 minutes, is non-surgical and painless, and its effectiveness lasts from 6 to 24 months depending on the type of threads used. Some side effects may occur such as swelling, pain or bleeding.

6. **Rhinoplasty**: A deviated septum occurs when one side of the nose is larger than the other, which can lead to blockage on one side. This can cause problems such as sinusitis or frequent nosebleeds. The procedure is performed to treat nasal congestion resulting from a deviated septum, which helps relieve symptoms.

In addition to classifying rhinoplasty surgeries according to the causes, they can also be divided according to the method of the procedure into two main types:

- **Closed rhinoplasty**: It involves making incisions inside the nose, which reduces the healing period and swelling and prevents the appearance of scars.

- **Open Rhinoplasty**: It requires external incisions between the nostrils in addition to the internal incisions, which gives the surgeon more room for adjustment and achieve better results.

Assistant techniques such as laser and fillers can be used during rhinoplasty.

**Laser Rhinoplasty**

 

With the advancement of medical technology, it has become possible to perform rhinoplasty with minimal impact on the natural structure of the nose. This is done by preserving the cartilage and bones of the nose without any damage, while targeting only the part to be changed. One of the main advantages of using laser is that it allows the cartilage and bones to be precisely shaped, which leads to reducing complications in the short and long term, and achieving more natural results. In addition, the patient can leave the hospital 4 or 5 hours after the operation, and return to work in less than a week, without the need to place a wick inside the nose.

**Rhinoplasty Steps**

 

1. **Anesthesia**: The doctor determines the appropriate type of anesthesia before the operation, whether intravenously or by other methods he deems appropriate, in addition to determining the method by which the necessary medications will be administered during the operation.

2. **Incision Procedure**: The surgical incision is performed in two ways:
- **The first method**: It involves opening several incisions in the nose and lifting the skin and tissues covering the bones, allowing the insertion of precise tools to reshape the nose.
- **The second method**: It is known as open incision surgery, where the internal nostrils are closed and an external incision is made, with a narrow strip placed to separate the two nostrils from each other.

3. **Nose Reshaping**: A large nose can be reduced by removing bone or cartilage. In some cases, nose surgery may require adding cartilage grafts, where cartilage is used from the nasal septum (which is located in the middle of the nose), or from the ear, and in rare cases, part of the rib cartilage can be used.

4. **Septal Deviation Correction**: During the operation, a deviation in the nasal septum may occur, so the doctor adjusts it to avoid any respiratory problems after the operation is completed.

**Closing the surgical incision:**

This is the final step in the rhinoplasty procedure, where the doctor sculpts the basic structure of the nose to reach the desired shape, and then reconstructs the basic structure using tissue and skin. After this is done, the doctor closes the surgical incision properly, and places gauze and a splint on the nose to provide support and enhance the healing process.

**Rhinoplasty with fillers:**

Rhinoplasty with fillers or fillers is a procedure in which tissue is injected to fill gaps or correct defects. Injectable fillers such as Juvederm and Restylane are used in this procedure. One of the disadvantages of this procedure is that it is not permanent, which requires repeating the procedure after a period of time.

**Benefits of laser rhinoplasty:**

Laser rhinoplasty is a non-surgical procedure used to modify the shape of the nose and improve its appearance, without modifying the bone or cartilage structure. Laser technology is used to change the appearance of the nose in certain ways, such as:
- **Reducing the size of the nose:** Laser can be used to reduce the size of the nasal tissue and remove fine veins, which improves the symmetry of the nose and gives it a smaller appearance.
- **Improving skin texture:** Laser is used to improve the texture of the skin on the nose, as it can help reduce wrinkles and skin pigmentation, which enhances the appearance of the nose.
- **Removing small scars:** Laser can be used to remove small scars resulting from previous surgery or injury, which improves the appearance of the nose. It should be noted that laser rhinoplasty is considered a non-permanent procedure, as its results may last for a limited period, and several sessions are required to maintain the desired results, unlike surgical rhinoplasty.

**Procedures before rhinoplasty:**

Before rhinoplasty, the doctor takes several steps to determine the appropriate procedure, including:
- Discussing the patient's reasons for wanting to undergo the procedure.
- Examining the nose by the doctor.
- Asking the patient some questions about the medications he is taking, or if there was an accident that caused a change in the shape of the nose, or whether the problem has been present since birth.
Based on this information, the doctor can determine the appropriate procedure, and may ask the patient to undergo some routine tests such as blood tests and electrocardiograms. As mentioned earlier, the steps of the rhinoplasty procedure will vary depending on the type of procedure the doctor will perform based on its purpose.

**Side effects after rhinoplasty**

 

It is normal for the patient to feel some pain as part of the symptoms following rhinoplasty, and may face some of the following health problems:
- Congestion.
- Bleeding.
- Infection.

These symptoms usually disappear within two weeks after the procedure. To alleviate the symptoms associated with the procedure and prevent possible complications, it is recommended to 

H as follows:
- Take painkillers prescribed by the doctor to relieve pain.
- Refrain from smoking and drinking alcohol during this period.
- Avoid crowded places to avoid catching a cold or flu.
- Make sure to rest while keeping the head elevated when sleeping or lying down.
- Avoid sleeping on one side to avoid pressure on the nose, which may affect the final result.
- Apply cold compresses to the face and nose area.
- Avoid pressure on the nose or sneezing.
- Change the bandages according to the doctor's instructions.

During the first weeks after the operation, the patient should avoid excessive physical activity and avoid wearing medical or sunglasses until the doctor allows him to do so. He should also avoid exposure to heat or sun for long periods. Ice packs can be used under the eyes to reduce the possibility of bruising.

**Rhinoplasty Complications**

 

The incidence of rhinoplasty complications ranges from 4-19% based on several factors, including:
- The surgeon's skill.
- The type of operation.
- The patient's general health condition.

Possible complications include:
- Feeling severe and unbearable pain: Many people wonder if rhinoplasty is painful. The procedure is usually painless, but in some cases it may cause some pain. If the pain is severe and unbearable, a doctor should be consulted.
- Continuous bleeding.
- Bronchitis.
- Swelling of the lips and face.
- The appearance of fibrosis or scars as a result of the wound not healing, which can be treated with a complementary procedure.
- The patient is not satisfied with the final result, which may require a secondary rhinoplasty.

**Can the nose be reduced without surgery?**

 

Yes, the nose can be reduced without the need for surgery, as there are many cosmetic procedures that can help with this. Some exercises can also be performed to change the shape of the nose and reduce its size. The following are details about these methods.

**Rhinoplasty with fillers**

 

Rhinoplasty with fillers is also known as liquid rhinoplasty or rhinoplasty in 15 minutes. This procedure is an effective way to reduce the size of the nose without surgery, as it depends on injecting dermal fillers that change the shape of the nose for up to 6 months. This method does not require removing any tissue from the nose or reducing its width, but rather works to modify the shape to make the nose appear smaller and narrower. This procedure is ideal for people who want to get rid of the bumps in their nose or make the nose appear less sharp, without worrying about the risks and recovery time associated with traditional rhinoplasty. The nose is reduced with fillers by injecting filler components, such as hyaluronic acid, under the skin to temporarily change the structure of the nose. Plastic surgeons consider this type of non-surgical nose reduction to be effective and safe, although there are some potential complications. Common side effects such as redness may appear after the procedure. Rhinoplasty with fillers can be performed on an outpatient basis without the need for hospitalization, and an experienced dermatologist can complete the procedure in 15 minutes or less. In some cases, the patient can return to work on the same day. The cost of this procedure is also much lower than the cost of traditional rhinoplasty. **Thread nose reduction**

Thread nose lift is a non-surgical nose reduction method, meaning that the procedure does not require any incisions. The tip of the nose is usually reduced using dissolvable threads made of polydioxanone, which has been used in biomedical and pharmaceutical applications for many years due to its safe properties. Polydioxanone threads also act as a collagen stimulator, promoting the formation of new collagen to provide a sustainable and long-term lift to the nose. Other types of threads can be used, such as polylactic acid and polycaprolactone. Non-surgical nose reduction using threads takes less than an hour, and patients can resume their daily activities immediately afterward. During the procedure, the patient lies in an inclined position with his face facing up, and a local anesthetic may be used on the nose and the surrounding area, ensuring that he does not feel any pain or discomfort. The surgeon makes a small incision using a needle, then inserts a cannula to hold the thread in place, after which the cannula is withdrawn and any excess thread is cut off. The cannula is used to guide the threads to the right place, which helps shape the nose into the desired shape. The number of threads required varies from person to person depending on the current shape of the nose and the desired result. The results of nose reduction with threads appear immediately, and the results usually last for a year.

**Rhinoplasty Exercises**

 

Many people wonder if there are exercises that can help reduce the size of the nose as an alternative to surgery. Among these exercises is the exercise of pressing on the nose while opening the nostrils. However, there is no scientific evidence to prove that nose exercises or nose yoga can reshape the nose. These exercises may help strengthen the small muscles surrounding the nose that we use in facial expressions, but their effect on the shape of the nose itself is limited.

The shape and size of the nose are determined based on two main factors:
1. The shape of the nasal bones, which determines the shape of the base of the nose.
2. The cartilage, which mainly forms the tip of the nose, and is usually soft, giving the nose its flexibility. There is no evidence that nose exercises can significantly affect the shape of these tissues.

**Nose change after plastic surgery**

 

The recovery period from rhinoplasty can take up to a year, and the final results of the operation may not appear until a year or more. Although this period may seem long, some tips can be followed to reduce it. The following are the stages of nose change after surgery, knowing that these stages may vary from one patient to another:

- **First week:** After the first week, the tapes can be removed from the nose, and you can go out in public places without clear signs of surgery, unless there are bruises around the 

Eyes. The patient should be patient and not be bothered by seeing these bruises.

- **The second to third week:** The facial swelling and most of the eye bruises disappear, and glasses can now be worn for short periods to avoid pressure on the nose. The patient should be aware that wearing glasses may cause some harm to some at this stage.

- **From the third to the sixth week:** It is safe to return to activities and sports such as running or swimming.

- **After three months:** The bones may become stable and the patient feels better, but he must protect the nose from shocks and avoid any situations that may lead to it colliding. If this happens, a doctor should be consulted immediately.

- **After six months:** The numbness and abnormal changes in the nose and skin disappear, the bruises and swelling disappear completely, and the condition of the nose stabilizes.

- **After one to three years:** The healing process is complete, the skin takes the shape of the new structure of the nose, and the patient can see the final result of the operation.