What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to improve its appearance, function, or both. Dr. Mukami Gathariki at Nairobi Sculpt Aesthetic Centre specializes in creating natural, harmonious results that enhance facial balance. Whether you aim to refine the nose’s shape, correct breathing difficulties, or repair trauma-related damage, rhinoplasty offers a versatile solution tailored to your needs.

Using advanced techniques like open or closed rhinoplasty, Dr. Mukami ensures precise outcomes with minimal scarring. Each procedure is customized to align with the patient’s facial features and aesthetic goals, delivering results that look effortless and authentic.

Benefits of Rhinoplasty

• Facial Harmony: Refines the nose to complement other facial features, creating a balanced appearance.
• Improved Breathing: Corrects structural issues like a deviated septum, enhancing airflow and respiratory function.
• Enhanced Confidence: Aligns your appearance with your self-image, boosting self-esteem.
• Versatile Customization: Addresses specific concerns, such as a dorsal hump, wide nostrils, or an asymmetrical tip.
• Permanent Results: Offers long-lasting outcomes with proper care, maintaining improvements over time.

Who is a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Ideal candidates for rhinoplasty include individuals who:

• Are in good overall health with no uncontrolled medical conditions.
• Are dissatisfied with the size, shape, or symmetry of their nose.
• Experience breathing issues due to nasal structural abnormalities.
• Are at least 16–18 years old, ensuring nasal and facial growth is complete.
• Have realistic expectations about the procedure’s outcomes.

During your consultation, Dr. Mukami will conduct a thorough assessment of your nasal anatomy, discuss your aesthetic and functional goals, and may use digital imaging to visualize potential results, ensuring a personalized approach.

Types of Rhinoplasty

Dr. Mukami offers various rhinoplasty techniques to suit individual needs:

• Open Rhinoplasty: Involves a small incision on the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) for enhanced precision in complex cases.
• Closed Rhinoplasty: Uses internal incisions, leaving no visible scars, ideal for minor adjustments.
• Functional Rhinoplasty: Focuses on correcting breathing issues, such as a deviated septum or collapsed nasal valves.
• Revision Rhinoplasty: Addresses concerns from previous nose surgeries, improving aesthetics or function.
• Ethnic Rhinoplasty: Enhances the nose while preserving cultural or ethnic characteristics, maintaining identity.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, depending on the case. The procedure typically follows these steps:

1. Consultation: Dr. Mukami evaluates your nasal structure, discusses your goals, and develops a tailored surgical plan.
2. Anesthesia: Administered to ensure comfort during the procedure.
3. Incisions: Made inside the nostrils (closed) or across the columella (open), based on the technique chosen.
4. Reshaping: Bone, cartilage, and tissue are sculpted to achieve the desired shape. Grafts may be used for structural support.
5. Functional Corrections: Structural issues, such as a deviated septum, are addressed to improve breathing if needed.
6. Closure: Incisions are closed with fine sutures, and a splint is applied to stabilize the nose during healing.
7. Duration: The procedure typically lasts 1.5–3 hours, depending on complexity.

Dr. Mukami’s meticulous approach minimizes tissue trauma, promoting faster recovery and natural-looking results.

Recovery and Aftercare

Recovery from rhinoplasty varies by patient, but here’s a general timeline:

• First Week: A nasal splint and packing (if used) are worn. Swelling and bruising around the eyes are common. Most patients resume light activities within 7–10 days.
• Two Weeks: The splint is removed, and bruising begins to fade. You may return to non-strenuous work or school.
• One Month: Most swelling subsides, though subtle swelling may persist. Avoid contact sports or heavy exercise for 6–8 weeks.
• Full Recovery: Final results emerge within 6–12 months as the nose fully settles. Scars (if any) become nearly invisible.

Dr. Mukami provides comprehensive aftercare instructions, including:

• Elevating your head to reduce swelling.
• Avoiding pressure on the nose, such as wearing glasses, for several weeks.
• Using saline sprays to keep nasal passages moist.
• Attending follow-up appointments to monitor healing progress.

Combining Rhinoplasty with Other Procedures

To achieve comprehensive facial harmony, rhinoplasty can be paired with:

• Chin Augmentation: Balances facial proportions by enhancing the chin’s size or shape.
• Facelift or Necklift: Rejuvenates the face for a youthful, cohesive appearance.
• Eyelid Surgery (Blepharoplasty): Refreshes the eyes to complement nasal refinements.
• Non-Surgical Treatments: Botox or fillers to enhance overall facial aesthetics.

Dr. Mukami will recommend complementary procedures based on your goals and facial anatomy.

Frequently Asked Questions

• How long do rhinoplasty results last? Results are permanent, though natural aging may subtly alter the nose’s appearance over decades.
• Will I have visible scars? Closed rhinoplasty leaves no visible scars, while open rhinoplasty scars are minimal and fade significantly over time.
• Is rhinoplasty painful? Most patients experience mild discomfort, managed with prescribed medications. Swelling and congestion are temporary.
• Can rhinoplasty improve breathing? Yes, functional rhinoplasty corrects issues like a deviated septum or narrow airways, enhancing respiratory function.
• When will I see the final results? Initial improvements are visible within weeks, but final results take 6–12 months as swelling fully resolves.