13Mar

Rhinoplasty (AKA ‘a nose job’) is no longer the guilty celebrity secret it once was. Nose surgery is not a matter of shame or embarrassment. And it is not limited to the wealthy few. It’s simply a way to help people feel better. Whether medically or aesthetically. Often both. But while people are generally a lot more open about having rhinoplasty now, the procedure itself can still be open to confusion. Patients often seek surgery, not fully understanding the options available to them. One of which is keyhole rhinoplasty. So, what do you need to know?

Keyhole Rhinoplasty: Everything You Need to Know

What is keyhole rhinoplasty?

There are two main types of surgical rhinoplasty. Open and closed.

· Open rhinoplasty involves an incision being made into the tissue that divides the nostrils (the columella). This allows the surgeon open access to the interior structure of the nose. It will leave a scar. But in most cases, it will become unnoticeable over time.

· Closed rhinoplasty (AKA keyhole) is managed purely through incisions made to the interior of the nostrils. This procedure leaves no outward scarring.

Is there any benefit to keyhole rhinoplasty?

We’ve already mentioned that this procedure leaves no outward scarring. But because keyhole rhinoplasty is less invasive, it also usually causes less swelling. And the surgery takes less time to complete. Often as little as 30 minutes, depending on the nature of the alteration.

Are there any disadvantages to keyhole rhinoplasty?

Keyhole rhinoplasty is only suitable for a limited number of alterations. More complex revisions will require open rhinoplasty. Where the surgeon can clearly see the nose. Both its shape, without having to factor in the stretching of the skin. And the anatomic structures, so any relevant diagnoses can be made – such as when an issue may be impairing a patient’s breathing.

Keyhole rhinoplasty is also a lot more difficult to perform. This means that it is offered by far fewer surgeons than open rhinoplasty. And it is particularly important that you find a highly experienced, well-reputed surgeon to work with.

What adjustments can be made with keyhole rhinoplasty?

The most common revisions made by keyhole rhinoplasty are:

· Bump removal. All nose shapes can be beautiful. But if you have what is commonly termed a ‘roman nose’ and are uncomfortable with the bump, or have a lump on your nose following an injury, keyhole rhinoplasty can be used to remove or rearrange small amounts of cartilage or bone.

· Septoplasty. If you have a deviated septum, it can impact your breathing. Rhinoplasty can be used to remove any obstructions.

Nose augmentation surgery, where bone from the hip, elbow, skull, or cartilage from the ear, is used to build up the shape of the nose, is usually performed via open surgery.

What anaesthetic is used for keyhole rhinoplasty?

Keyhole rhinoplasty can be performed using either general or local anaesthetic. Your surgeon will discuss the options most suited to your particular procedure and circumstances.

Keyhole rhinoplasty cannot provide the answer to every patient’s needs. But if you require a relatively small adjustment, it can offer a fast, effective solution, with a faster recovery time.

If you are considering rhinoplasty, book a consultation to find out how Rajan Uppal could help.

20Feb

One of the most common reasons for nose surgery is fixing a crooked nose. Bent noses come in all sorts of forms, and can be caused by a wide variety of factors. But their one uniting feature is that they make their owners unhappy. This may be purely for cosmetic reasons. But what many people don’t realise is that a crooked nose can also cause breathing difficulties. So, what do you need to know about fixing a crooked nose?

What You Need to Know About Fixing a Bent Nose

What causes a nose to be crooked?

There are several reasons why a person might have a crooked nose. It can be caused by birth defects, extreme infections, injuries, previous surgery, or it can just develop by itself over time. In some cases, it is purely an aesthetic concern – and the importance of that shouldn’t be underestimated. As our appearance plays a large part in our self-confidence and can be linked to mental wellbeing. But there are physical considerations too. When the exterior of the nose is crooked, the interior structures may also be misaligned. Meaning that the septum – the wall inside the nose that separates the left nostril from the right – is preventing adequate airflow on the one side of the nose. Which means that breathing is impaired. This is known as a deviated septum.

How do you know if you have a deviated septum?

There are several common symptoms associated with a deviated septum. The most common is nasal congestion. And the sensation that one side of the nose is blocked. This will usually impact breathing. But you may also experience frequent nosebleeds and sinus infections.

How can you treat a crooked nose?

The treatment of a crooked nose varies according to the severity of the deviated septum and whether any cosmetic alterations are required by the patient.

Non-surgical

In some cases, the non-surgical approach is the best option. This involves the use of soft tissue fillers. These injectables can mask the crookedness by filling in the soft tissue around the bone and cartilage to create a more symmetrical appearance.

Septoplasty

If you have problems with the interior of your nose, septoplasty is a minor surgical procedure that will straighten your septum and relieve nasal congestion. Results are not instant, but the benefits should be felt within a few weeks.

Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty refers to surgery relating to the structure of your nose. And it can be used for both functional and cosmetic procedures. Addressing crookedness, while helping patients to breathe more easily, rhinoplasty has been found to be one of the most successful ways of fixing a bent nose.

 A crooked nose can impact different people in different ways. But while the treatment is often relatively simple, the results can be life changing. So, if you have concerns about the way your nose looks or feels, don’t think that it’s just something you have to live with. See your doctor or surgeon to find out what options are available to you.

Book a consultation with Rajan Uppal to discuss treatment for your crooked nose. 

16Feb

One of the most difficult aspects of surgery is precision. You’re working at such a high degree of accuracy that there is no margin for error. The smallest deviation can have a dramatic impact on your patient’s life. And that is the benefit of using new 3D microscopes.

The future of surgery

A few weeks ago, I had the opportunity to use the latest 3D microscope, and the results were impressive. With extra features that help surgeons focus on the specific area of surgery – adjustable magnification, clear illumination, and perfect visualisation – surgeons are empowered to increase precision. This not only improves patient safety, but in cosmetic surgery helps to ensure that the final results are as close to patient expectations as possible.

Integrated with various imaging modalities, including fluorescence imaging, augmented reality, and optical coherence tomography (OCT), 3D microscopes have the potential to change surgical practices for the better. And I don’t think it will be long before every surgeon has access to one.

13Jan

Rhinoplasty has the potential to be a life-changing experience. It can boost your health, improve your confidence, and change the way that you feel about yourself. But, like any other form of surgery, it is not to be undertaken lightly. Depending on the type of rhinoplasty – surgical, laser, liquid, implant, or ultrasonic – the procedure often can’t be reversed. So, it is vitally important that you go into it fully informed.

So, what do you need to know and do before committing to rhinoplasty?

Six Things to Know Before Booking Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty takes time

Although common, rhinoplasty is far from simple. And surgical rhinoplasty can be highly invasive. This means that most people will require a recovery period of least two weeks. Which means time off work. And even after that period, you will not be able to enjoy the full benefits of the procedure. It can take months for the swelling to completely subside. And in fact, in most cases, it can take up to a year for the soft tissues around the nose to completely settle into the new shape. So, results are by no means instant.

Rhinoplasty can be highly uncomfortable but not painful

Most people expect discomfort following surgery. But following rhinoplasty, the first two weeks come with a range of [often unexpected] inconveniences and issues. The worst for most people is that during the first two weeks, you will not be able to blow your nose – if you do, you can adversely affect the final results of your procedure. Many people require external tape of splints for the first few days after surgery. Your sleep will probably be disrupted. And most people require a few painkillers and antiemetics (medication to prevent nausea) during this period. Even after the initial two weeks, things like contact sports should be off the table for at least six months.

You may not be able to achieve the results you are hoping for

It may be stating the obvious, but noses are very personal things. So, the style of nose that most appeals to you, may not be suited to your face. That’s why it is so important to work with a reputable and ethical surgeon. While they may not give you the answer that you’re hoping for, they are committed to doing the best they can for your long-term wellbeing. So, plan ahead. Get a clear idea of the results you want. And then book a consultation with a professional who is not afraid to say ‘no’. In most cases, they will help you to find a suitable solution.

Rhinoplasty isn’t always the answer

Continuing from the last point, there are times when rhinoplasty simply is not appropriate. If you have certain health conditions, or the surgery holds the potential to impact your breathing in the long term, a reputable surgeon will refuse to operate.

Selecting the right surgeon can dramatically impact your experience

Everyone has to start somewhere. But if you’re putting the shape of your face in someone’s hands, you really want to work with the most experienced person possible. So, don’t be afraid to go to your initial consultation armed with questions. Ask about their experience. Request to view before and after pictures. Discuss all rhinoplasty types to ensure that you’re getting the right option for you. And if you’re not satisfied with their manner or experience level, walk away. Find a surgeon who makes you feel comfortable.

Why is it cheaper in Turkey?

You get what you pay for.  While Instagram marketing and cheap price can be attractive for some, there are hidden dangers that lurk for those that go abroad for rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is a journey and requires significant after-care because the nose keeps changing after the operation. This requires close contact with your surgeon after surgery which is only possible in your home country. The United Kingdom is a highly regulated healthcare system which therefore does mean the costs are higher but the protections for patients are exceptionally good. 

Rhinoplasty is an important decision. It can change your entire outlook. But it’s important to understand that that change may be for the worse as well as the better. So, think carefully about your decision. Speak to your surgeon in depth. Follow their advice. But never be afraid to ask questions.

Book a consultation to find out more about rhinoplasty with Rajan Uppal.  

8Dec

People desire rhinoplasty for a variety of reasons. It can be to repair damage. Repair self-confidence. Or to – literally – help you breathe more easily. But whatever the reason behind the decision, attending your first appointment can be stressful. Some people feel judged. Others simply don’t know what they want from the appointment. Merely that they want change. Understanding the process can help to remove the anxiety from the situation.

So, what can you – should you – expect from your first rhinoplasty appointment?

Rhinoplasty Consultation Expectations

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a procedure that involves physical adjustments to the nose. This can include changes to the nose size, shape, and angle. And is usually focussed upon the bridge of the nose or the tip of the nose. 

Most rhinoplasty is performed surgically. But laser rhinoplasty is also available. It is less invasive, can reduce swelling, and improve recovery time. Ultrasonic nose surgery and liquid nose surgery may also be options for you.

What happens during your first rhinoplasty consultation?

The purpose of your first consultation is to determine whether rhinoplasty is right for you. So, your consultation will include the following stages.

Your motivation and expectations

Before any form of cosmetic surgery can be embarked upon, your surgeon will need to know that the decision is yours and that you are not being coerced into the treatment. They will also need to understand what your expectations of the procedure are, to ensure that you are not undergoing the treatment with false hopes. All surgery has to be guided by your body. And some results may not be possible.

Medical history

There are some medical conditions which may preclude your suitability for rhinoplasty. Or may make it more sensible for you to delay treatment. Your surgeon will need to know whether you have any nasal obstructions, whether you take any medication, and whether you have any pre-existing conditions.

Physical examination

Next will come a physical examination. This is necessary to ensure that any surgery will not impact your ability to breathe. Or cause any other physical discomfort, difficulty, or ill health. During this stage your nose, skin, and face will be examined, and you may be required to have some blood tests.  

Photography

Lastly, if you are considered to be a suitable candidate, your surgeon will take some photographs of your face from different angles. These photos will then be used for digital manipulation, so your surgeon can fully understand the nose shape that you are looking for. And allow you to see how the changes will affect your appearance.

What happens next?

If your surgeon believes that you are suited to rhinoplasty and you wish to go ahead with the procedure, you’ll be booked in for your surgery. The time that each procedure takes varies according to the type of rhinoplasty selected, and the scope of your treatment. Initial recovery, post-surgery, will take up to two weeks. But full recovery can take up to twelve months.

Rhinoplasty can provide a solution for a variety of problems. It can be the perfect way to boost your confidence if you are self-conscious about your appearance, or to correct pervious damage. But as with any cosmetic procedure, you need to be sure that you are doing it for the right reasons. And that you fully understand exactly what will be involved. If you can say ‘yes’ to both of those questions, book a consultation to find out how your surgeon can help.

If you are interested in rhinoplasty, you can book an appointment online, or contact the surgery for more information. 

12Oct

Three months on from her Rhinoplasty with Mr Uppal, Megan reflected on the experience and how happy she is with her nose following the procedure.

She stated, “I am delighted with the results I received from Mr Uppal. He made sure I understood everything before I went into surgery and was available to answer all of my concerns and queries throughout the process. I had excellent results even from the day of cast removal and had smooth healing thereafter. I highly recommend Mr Uppal to anyone wanting a rhinoplasty.”