Complications and Side Effects

It is your responsibility to study and research this section comprehensively. All surgery carries risks. As a result of the surgery, you may experience:

Pain
Some patients experience discomfort for 2-3 days. You can dull the effects by taking the medication prescribed to you.

Bleeding
You may notice slight oozing for the first 24-48 hours after surgery. Bruising Is rare, but in some cases can last beyond 10 days.

Swelling
Your splint will help to reduce the initial swelling. Some people experience long-term swelling of between 5-10%, which subsides over three to six months.

Tightness
This is normally as a result of the swelling and eases in the first few days.

Splint
You mustn’t remove the splint. It is worn for 7-10 days pos-operatively and will be removed with your stitches on the day of your post-operative visit. Keep the splint dry at all times.

Numbness
It is normal for some patients to experience numbness, particularly at the tip of the nose. This is temporary and sensation should completely return within six months.

Infection
You will be given instructions to cleanse the area gently at least twice a day. You will also be on prophylactic antibiotics to help reduce the risk of infection.

Irregularities
When the swelling subsides, some patients can feel slight bumps under the skin of their nose. It is very rarely visible and will settle in time.

Lip Changes
This is common when a projecting tip of the nose is moved backwards. Your lips may appear longer, swollen or stiff but will subside completely in the first couple of months.

Scar under the nose
The scar is very rarely visible.

Allergies
Please tell us if you have any known allergies. Some people are allergic to the sutures, tapes and dressings we use. Although rare, some people have problems at the site of the IV injection such as bruising and swelling.

Depression
Anaesthetic can cause patients to feel depressed for the first few days after surgery. Try to organise activities to keep yourself occupied at home after your rhinoplasty.

Air Way Obstruction
Breathing difficulties can occur when the nose is narrow. Additional surgery may be required to fix this.

Thick Skin
It isn’t always possible to create a fine, delicate nose if you have thick, heavy skin. People with thick skin should note that post-operative swelling might last longer.

Revision Surgery
Some patients may require a revision rhinoplasty to correct minor problems. This happens with 1:10 patients.

Asymmetry
Any pre-existing asymmetry will still be detectable after surgery. There are no completely symmetrical noses.

Expectations of Computer Imaging
The image on the computer is a representation of what you, as the patient, want. It isn’t a promise of what can be achieved.

Three Month Acceptance
Occasionally some patients are unable to see and appreciate their new nose because of post-operative swelling or other irregularities. It may take as long as three months before you are able to appreciate your new look.

Postoperative Visits
The results are generally trouble free and you may feel it unnecessary to return for your routine follow up. It is important that you return for many significant reasons. These post-operative checks are usually very reassuring and Dr Tan is very interested in how you are progressing.

Privacy
The benefit of Cosmetic Surgery entails privacy. The objective is established in a private contract between the patient and the surgeon. Maintaining this privacy protects the anticipated outcome. The privacy contract is broken when the patient enters into conversations with a third party, seeking comments and assurances. This will lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction.