Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that reconstructs the nose either to improve physical appearance or to relieve troubled breathing. It is typically an outpatient surgery with a reasonable recovery time. Patients who want to improve their nose for any reason with a rhinoplasty should ask the following questions to prepare for the procedure:
What Type of Doctor Should Perform My Rhinoplasty?
An experienced plastic or cosmetic surgeon should perform a surgical rhinoplasty. Other types of surgeons do not have the right training and experience to adjust the nose correctly. Plastic surgeons are trained with knowledge of facial features and nasal structures. They use a delicate hand to surgically alter the nose in a way that appears natural with little to no scarring. Experienced doctors will have before and after photos that patients can review to see their capabilities and past rhinoplasty results.
How Do I Prepare for a Rhinoplasty?
Preparation instructions for a rhinoplasty procedure vary by individual, but there are general things each patient should be aware of:
- Set Your Expectations: Go into the procedure knowing the pros and cons. Carefully review your desired and projected results with the surgeon so that you know what to expect. Be aware of the recovery procedures and how to avoid complications.
- Health Preparation: A patient should be in good health and avoid smoking leading up to the procedure and during recovery. Patients should also avoid medications that can thin the blood. Bloodwork may be needed before the procedure to determine overall health eligibility.
- Follow Instructions: Carefully follow any other pre-operative instructions given by the doctor for a successful cosmetic surgery experience. Take any prescribed medications to reduce swelling and discomfort.
What Happens After Rhinoplasty?
Patients typically go home shortly after their rhinoplasty surgery once they are fully awake from anesthesia. They should prepare in advance to have a friend or family member take them home after the procedure. The cosmetic surgeon will provide aftercare instructions, which the patient should follow in order to heal properly.
Complications are rare when it comes to rhinoplasty surgeries, but there is the possibility of future difficulty breathing, infection, and other issues. The doctor will review any risks prior to surgery and proper post-op care will help to avoid them. In the post-operative appointments that are scheduled just days after surgery, the cosmetic surgeon will remove the gauze from the nostrils that were placed after the rhinoplasty. Patients can expect bruising around the eyes and nose along with swelling and should not blow their nose for a few days after the procedure.
How Long Will Cosmetic Surgery Recovery Take?
Following post-operative instructions carefully will make the recovery from a rhinoplasty quicker and more successful. Recovery can vary based on age, health, and the complexity of the procedure. Downtime after the procedure can be reduced by taking good care of your nose and not participating in strenuous activities. It can take several months for the full feeling and function of the nose to be restored.
Is a Rhinoplasty Procedure Uncomfortable?
During the rhinoplasty, the patient will be under anesthesia, so they will not feel any pain or discomfort. Medications will be prescribed afterward to help with discomfort. Every patient’s experience may be different, but with modern technologies and techniques, rhinoplasty is a quick procedure with minimal discomfort.
How Long Will Swelling Last?
Some people only experience noticeable swelling for a matter of weeks. Minor swelling after a rhinoplasty can last for up to a few months in some patients. Each patient is different and will experience variations in swelling. The plastic surgeon who performs the procedure will provide follow-up care to monitor results and give specific timelines on possible swelling.
Prepare Properly for a Rhinoplasty
Whether a rhinoplasty is for beauty or medical reasons, it is a great choice for patients who want a better-looking or better-functioning nose. Asking the right questions can help patients find the right plastic surgeon and be better prepared for the procedure. When asking questions, anyone looking for a rhinoplasty should also keep their desired results in mind. This will help them ask any other questions that may come to mind to help them prepare. Start your search for a skilled cosmetic surgeon who is able to perform quality rhinoplasties today.
