Reconstructive Surgery
Nasal Reconstruction (Trauma & Cancer)
Rebuilding nasal structure lost to injury or cancer surgery
Overview
Nasal reconstruction rebuilds the structure of the nose after significant trauma — such as a gunshot, blast, or blunt injury — or following the removal of skin cancer, addressing damage to the skin, cartilage, and bony framework that gives the nose its shape and supports breathing.
This is distinct from cosmetic rhinoplasty: the goal here is restoring lost or damaged structure using grafts, flaps, or a combination, planned around the specific tissue that needs to be replaced, rather than refining an already-intact nose.
Candidacy
Is Nasal Reconstruction (Trauma & Cancer) Right for You?
- Nasal cartilage or skin loss following trauma, a gunshot or blast injury, or a road traffic accident
- Nasal cartilage necrosis following blunt trauma that disrupted its blood supply
- A nasal defect remaining after skin cancer excision
- Structural nasal damage affecting both appearance and breathing function
What to Expect
Your Journey
- 01
Assessment
Detailed evaluation of which layers — skin, cartilage, lining, or bone — are missing or damaged, since this determines the reconstructive plan.
- 02
Reconstruction
Performed under general anaesthesia, using local flaps, cartilage grafts, or a staged combination depending on the extent of the defect.
- 03
Recovery
More extensive reconstructions are often staged over more than one procedure, with splinting and wound care guiding each phase of healing.
Recovery
Recovery & Aftercare
Recovery timelines vary considerably with the extent of reconstruction needed — a limited defect may heal over several weeks, while a complex, multi-stage reconstruction following major trauma can extend over months. Your surgical team will outline a specific plan and timeline for your particular injury.
Case Gallery
Documented Cases
Graphic Medical Content
This gallery contains real surgical photography and clinical documentation, including open wounds, incisions, and traumatic injuries. It is shared for educational and professional purposes. Viewer discretion is advised.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How is this different from cosmetic rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty refines the shape of an already-intact nose; nasal reconstruction rebuilds structure that has been lost or destroyed by trauma or cancer surgery, often requiring grafts or flaps rather than simple reshaping.
Is more than one operation usually needed?
For significant structural loss, yes — complex nasal reconstruction is frequently staged to allow each layer of tissue to heal and establish its blood supply before the next stage.
Can breathing function be restored alongside appearance?
Reconstruction aims to address both where possible, since the nose's structural framework affects airflow as well as shape — this is assessed and planned as part of your individual case.
Have Questions About Nasal Reconstruction (Trauma & Cancer)?
Every case is different. Get in touch to discuss your situation, or keep reading for more on candidacy, recovery, and what to expect.
All Procedures