Risks in Rhinoplasty
Just on the sole fact that the human eye can detect deformities in the nose that are just millimeters big, rhinoplasty is an inherently risky procedure. However, there are a plethora of other possible complications that are less often considered. In this article, we'll discuss the risks of functional disturbances, infections, and psychological damage.
A functional disturbance is a thing that prevents the body from performing as it normally does. Although people suffering from a deformity like a twisted nose may their functional disturbance remedied by performing rhinoplasty, it is sometimes the case that complications during rhinoplasty can create a new functional disturbance. For example, 10% of people that get reductive rhinoplasty report breathing problems. Although this figure may seem high, keep in mind that often a patient's complaints are the result of loss of sensitivity instead of loss of function.
Post-operational structural deformities are another type of functional disturbance. The most common post-operational deformity is called pollybeak deformity. This is the most common deformity, and 50% of rhinoplasty revisions are a result of pollybeak deformity. A curved profile, like a bird's beak, is characteristic of this deformity. Another somewhat common deformity is a structural failure called nasal base deformity. This is caused by loss of septal support, which can cause the center part of the nose to start to droop. However, with proper care of the septum, this is unlikely to occur.
Infections during rhinoplasty surgery are not a major risk at all. Since rhinoplasty is a non-sterile operation, infections happen in less than 1% of all surgeries. However, post-operative infections are much more common, and the patient should do all they can to mitigate these problems. Post-operation infections usually happen as a result of swelling due to external pressure put on the nose. These cases of infections are particularly dangerous, and can cause things like blindness, aneurysm, brain damage, and heart arrest. The warnings on your surgeon will give you before and after your operation should not be heeded lightly.
Lastly, the psychological effects of rhinoplasty seem to be overlooked by a lot of literature. A disproportionately high number of people seeking rhinoplasty treatment suffer from psychological disturbances, and these patients can be a risk not only to themselves, but to the doctor performing the operation. Risky patients include those with neurosis, psychotic disorders, or personality disorders. These patients may not respond well mentally, and in turn, can be a liability to themselves and those around them. If you identify with any of these conditions, it is advisable to become mentally healthy before undergoing surgery.
If you are a patient of rhinoplasty and want to mitigate risk, be sure to use Doctor CO Eyewear. With this eyewear, you can help reduce the chances of anything going wrong after your surgery.