One of the most frequently asked questions by Sydney rhinoplasty surgery patients is whether the surgery really involves plastic or some form of petroleum based product. Not an unusual question at all since the procedure is often referred to as plastic surgery. If you are considering rhinoplasty surgery in Sydney or nearby, you may be asking the same question.

Like so much in the medical world, much of the terminology is derived from Latin or Greek. The word "plastic" in the phrase "Plastic Surgery" is derived from the Greek word "plastikos" which means to "mold or shape." Sydney rhinoplasty surgery patients undergo a reshaping of their nose.

Greek Origins

The word "rhinoplasty" is derived from the Greek words "rhinos" which means "nose". Now you know why the Rhinoceros, with his huge nose and protruding horn, got his name. The Greek word "plassein" means "to shape"; hence rhinoplasty surgery refers to a surgical augmentation of the nose to alter its shape. There is no plastic involved in the surgery or reshaping.

Plastic surgery involving the nose, commonly referred to as a "nose job", is one of the more complicated procedures offered to Sydney rhinoplasty surgery patients. The surgery is done by doctors who specialize in ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgery and who are expert in facial plastic surgery involving the nose.

Why Have Plastic Surgery

A Sydney rhinoplasty surgery patient usually seeks a "nose job" because the nose has been damaged and misshapen due to an accident, congenital defects, tumors or malformations caused by an infection. The nasal airway may need to be improved by straightening the nasal septum. Or the nose may appear to be too large, narrow or bulbous and the patient prefers a more pleasing shape.

The Procedure

Most procedures are done as an outpatient surgery. However, some surgeries require an overnight stay in the hospital. Patients are under general anesthesia during the procedure. Depending on the complexity of surgery, the procedure may take from one to three hours.

There will be bruising around your nose area for a period of 10 days. Most patients are able to use a light makeup to hide the bruises. Post operative pain usually is minimal. Your doctor will prescribe an appropriate prescription for pain. It is important patients refrain from any medications that thin the blood or promote bleeding before or after the procedure. Therefore, stay away from aspirin or Aleve and stick with the medications prescribed by your Sydney rhinoplasty surgery doctor.