Are there many rhinoplasty complications in older patients?

Question

Hi I would like a rhinoplasty , but I am aged 66, it's something I have wanted all my life but never had the funds , but now I am retired I can do this for myself. Are there many complications In the operation or recovery in older ages ? I have no medical problems , no heart or lung issues and I am in good health , healthy and active. Thankyou.

Edwin F. Williams, III, MD · Answer

We do not notice that there are increased complications in our older patient population as long as they are generally healthy. If your interested, I would encourage you to explore surgical options. If our patients are having a general anesthetic, we have them see their primary care provider for preoperative medical clearance. Best of luck!

Lucian Ion, FRCS · Answer

For someone over the age of 60, in good health with no underlying medical problems, the General risks related to rhinoplasty are relatively similar to any other age.

One notable exception at present is the possibility of Covid infection around the time of surgery or shortly afterwards which would present higher risks in someone over 60.

It may be preferable to consider the surgery once vaccination for Covid is made available to you, or if the overall infection rate has decreased considerably.

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

Thank you for your question. You are a good candidate for Rhinoplasty.
Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty device Piezo®: 
In traditional Rhinoplasty, surgical instruments known as rasps and osteotomies (hammer and chisel) are used to reshape the nasal bones by removing the hump and/or narrowing the nasal bone width. These tools are relatively imprecise and their use can lead to contour irregularities, etc. if not used in the proper manner. Recently, a technology that uses sound waves has been developed to contour nasal bones in a precise and far less traumatic way when compared to traditional techniques. Ultrasonic, or Piezo, Rhinoplasty is now the most advanced technology available for minimally traumatic nasal bone reshaping and hump removal during Rhinoplasty. There will be hardly any bruising and swelling which will make the recovery period a lot easier for the patient.

Julian De Silva, MD · Answer

There is no age limit for having a rhinoplasty, what is most important is your general health. I have completed rhinoplasty for patients in their 60s and 70s, safety is paramount, and a thorough evaluation of all underlying health conditions is important. 
There are physiological changes in the nose that occur as we age, including changes of the cartilage and a decrease in skin elasticity that can affect the long-term results.  
General anaesthesia presents another risk in older patients. In the UK, we perform rhinoplasty under sedation anaesthesia that avoids these issues. Local anaesthesia with sedation is a safer option, known as “twilight anaesthesia” or “conscious sedation”, it is more commonly used in the US.
I recommend you consult with an experienced facial cosmetic and plastic surgeon who specialises in rhinoplasty, they can make a full assessment of the best options for your needs.

Behrad Elmiyeh, MBBS, MRCS, FRCS (ORL HNS) · Answer

There is no age limit for rhinoplasty.

Skin quality, elasticity is not the same as when one is in her/his 20s.
The other consideration is medical problems and the risk of general anaesthetic. Those in good health, like yourself should not have any concern. Anaesthetist always review and examin patients and discuss the risks with the patients.

Medications may affect healing or increase risk of bleeding and your surgeon will discuss this with you.

I would suggest that you consult with an expert rhinoplasty surgeon and discuss what you do and do not like about your nose.

You should expect a full detailed examination of your nose is required to assess your nasal skin, cartilage, bony structures, and your nasal airway/ breathing. This will allow the surgeon to evaluate your nasal appearance and its relation to your facial features. Your past medical history and medications will be reviewed.

The use of manipulated (morphed) digital clinical photography provides a platform for discussion as to your desires and expectations. Such images are not a guarantee of exact results, but a great tool to ensure that you and your surgeon are on the same wavelength.

Finally, there will be a discussion about possible outcome, risks and benefits. Only then you can make an informed decision about having a rhinoplasty.

Best wishes,

Are there many rhinoplasty complications in older patients?

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