Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty

[hemalatha]

20. What is a "hanging columella"?

A nasal columella is the external, and sometimes partial internal, fleshy section of the nose which separates the nostrils. When it is referred to being a hanging columella this section is often prominent or hangs down.

[annabell]

21. Is it possible for someone to be allergic to dissolvable stitches? And if so, what would the reaction be?

This isn't as uncommon as you may think. There are usually two types that promote a response in those who are sensitive to these sutures. These two are usually Absorbable Poly(glycolide/L-lactide) Surgical Suture material and Absorbable Gut Suture material.

If you experience redness and itchiness and sometimes pus formation - you very well may be allergic to the dissolvable type sutures. Sometimes the symptoms may not show up until about 3 to 4 weeks after surgery, if this happens, antibiotics can be given but it usually reoccurs. The best thing to do in some cases is to remove any of the left over material and replace it with nylon sutures. These sutures are usually removed in 10 days. Another option can be tissue glue although this isn't very mainstream for rhinoplasty.

Also be advised that when the skin gets red and itchy around a suture, be it absorbable or non-dissolving -- usually it is time for them to be removed. Your body knows and will tell you when your healing. Besides healing skin always turns itchy. Know the difference between typical irritation and an allergic reaction.

[annabell]

25. I used to be addicted to cocaine. As a result, my past (I'm recovered) addiction left a hole inside my nose, between my nostrils. Can I have the hole filled?

Most of the holes that come from cocaine are large and not treatable. A silicone button can in some cases be placed to close the hole. Dr. Sheen in Santa Barbara once specialized in cocaine-user nose treatment.

[annabell]

26. I recently had a rhinoplasty & septoplasty, its almost 6 months & on one of my nostrils I still can hardly breath. Is this normal?

Usually by the 6th month the breathing is most definitely restored. In fact, most patients notice improved breathing within a month to two months of surgery if they had difficulty breathing beforehand. I would suggest that you have a follow up with your surgeon and ask his advice or determine if the lack of airway is indeed from a deviated septum, redundant mucosa or enlarged or redundant turbinates. I do not know from your question if this is a constant occurrence or if this is at certain times of the day, while the body is horizontal or after exercise. These factors can also hinder breathing due to engorged tissue due to increased blood flow.

[annabell]

27. How much does rhinoplasty cost?

Between $3,500 and $20,000US depending upon the level of correction needed, whether it is a primary or revision surgery, if there are grafts needed, be they autologous (from your own body) or synthetic, how many surgeries are needed for complete correction, functional needs (septoplasty, turbinectomy, sinus problems, polyp removal, etc.), anesthesia choice, region and surgeon.