A prominent plastic surgeon, Professor Ullas Raghavan of Pall Mall, has witnessed a “staggering surge” in patients needing nose reconstructive surgery due to severe damage from cocaine use. He’s been flooded with cases of collapsed septums and nasal deformities as ex-users seek corrective procedures.
Prof Raghavan, who fixed Kerry Katona’s nose, said, “The rise in cocaine-damaged noses is truly alarming.” Katona had Septo-rhinoplasty surgery to repair her nose, which collapsed and caused breathing problems from past cocaine abuse. Raghavan used a rib bone piece for reconstruction. The specialist added, “I see ten times more patients with destroyed nasal structures than five years ago. They often can’t breathe properly and have extreme facial disfigurement. The damage is devastating physically and emotionally.”
Cocaine restricts blood flow to the nasal septum, eroding tissue over time and leading to perforations, infections, and in extreme cases, a collapsed nose.
Patients are coming from all over the UK, according to Prof Raghavan. “Many regret their past substance abuse, and their damaged noses are a constant reminder of their addiction. Reconstruction can restore function and appearance, giving them confidence,” he said.
While demand grows, Raghavan wants to raise awareness about cocaine’s nasal effects. “Many users don’t realize the damage until it’s too late. Prevention is best, but modern surgery can be life-changing for those already affected. Most severe cases can be repaired, offering ex-addicts a new nose and a fresh start.”
Kerry Katona, 43, former Atomic Kitten singer, opened up about her reconstructive nose surgery. She said cocaine became her “best friend” during tough times. Her mother introduced her to drugs at 14, telling her speed was sherbet.
She has been clean for 14 years and doesn’t dwell on regret or hatred. “Cocaine was my crutch during my second marriage after my first one crumbled,” she said. She could go months without drugs but would binge when she started.
Drug use caused a hole in her septum, which she aggravated as “self-harm.” Regarding her surgery, she said, “My nose was collapsing, and with age, it was changing shape. They took cartilage from my rib to restore it.”
As a mother of five, Katona showed her 10-year-old daughter the hole before surgery. “I’d rather my children hear about it from me than in the media. There’s no point hiding things; the internet is everywhere. I hope I can put them off drugs for life,” she said.
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