A simple childhood accident – falling off a swing – left lasting effects for Halima Khaliq, affecting both the shape and function of her nose. The injury caused breathing difficulties and a whistling noise that impacted her self-esteem well into her teens and adulthood.
But now, thanks to a rhinoplasty performed by Dr. Fas Arshad at Leeds Private Hospital, the 23-year-old says, “I’ve got my life back.”
Halima shared her struggles, saying: “For as long as I can remember, my nose has caused me immense pain and anguish. It wasn’t just the breathing difficulties that were distressing; I felt self-conscious and uneasy in social situations, unable to relax.”
A previous nose procedure only made things worse, worsening her breathing issues and leaving her more anxious about her appearance. Determined to find a solution, Halima turned to the internet, searching for surgeons in Yorkshire specializing in nose operations, which led her to inquire with Dr. Arshad at Leeds Private Hospital.
Dr. Arshad, a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon, explained: “Towards the end of my surgical training, I did a fellowship in head and neck cancer surgery in Oxford. That’s when I was exposed to many types of plastic reconstructive surgeries, which sparked my interest in aesthetic and reconstructive surgery. In Halima’s case, although the surgery is cosmetic, it’s also reconstructive because it addresses functional issues with her breathing.”
Dr. Arshad emphasized the psychological aspect of surgery, acknowledging the deep impact appearance can have on mental well-being. “We have a saying that we’re psychiatrists with a blade,” he noted. “A lot of the time, we’re addressing what the patient feels about their appearance, not just the tissue itself. Understanding their psychology is a critical part of the assessment process.”
For Halima’s surgery, Dr. Arshad used cartilage from her rib to straighten and strengthen her septum – the partition between her nostrils. Halima had already had cartilage removed during a previous surgery, so the rib cartilage was necessary for the revision procedure.
“I was quite anxious,” Halima admitted. “But after speaking with Dr. Arshad a few times, I felt confident. He was so knowledgeable and sure of what he was doing. That made all the difference for me.”
Dr. Arshad explained that the procedure involved a small incision, just two to three centimeters, through which cartilage was taken from her seventh rib. The incision healed beautifully and was nearly invisible.
Halima’s recovery was transformative. “I am no longer consumed by how my nose looks, and I feel much more at ease around family and friends,” she said. “Plus, my ability to breathe has improved significantly.”
Dr. Arshad expressed his pride in his work, saying, “It is incredibly rewarding to help patients regain their confidence and self-esteem. Our work is about restoring both physical and mental well-being.”
Related topics:
