Commonly known as a “nose job,” rhinoplasty has both cosmetic and medical benefits. Many patients voluntarily choose to have rhinoplasty when they are unhappy with the size or shape of their noses. However, rhinoplasty can also improve nasal breathing, chronic nose bleeds, or repair a nose broken from a serious injury. Here are some things to be aware of before proceeding with the surgery.
There are Two Types of Rhinoplasty Techniques: The surgeon will either perform closed or open rhinoplasty under general anesthesia. A closed rhinoplasty is when all the incisions are made inside the nose, leaving no visible scars. A closed rhinoplasty is often done to fix smaller issues like a deviated septum. Open rhinoplasty uses small incisions made between the nostrils to allow the surgeon access to the inside of the nose. This is often used for severe nose shaping.
Schedule Time Off: Although rhinoplasty can be done on an outpatient basis you will need some time to heal. While everyone recovers differently, you may need up to 10 days before you can go back to work or your usual routine.
It’ll Feel Worse Than a Cold: After the surgery, you will have gauze inside your nose. Over the following days, you may experience some mucus drainage and blood. Severe congestion is normal and may cause you to be uncomfortable. The stuffiness will get better as time goes by but may continue even for a few months.
Results Take Time: As anxious as you will be to sport your new nose to the public, your final new nose may not appear for almost a year. Your nose will actually look bad before it looks good, meaning there will first be bruising and swelling. You may even need to wear a bandaged splint to protect your nose for a while.
Put Glasses Away – Temporarily: The bridge of your nose will be sensitive, and even a bit malleable, after surgery. It’s best to avoid wearing glasses or sunglasses for at least six weeks. If you do wear prescription glasses, you may want to have contacts ready to wear. If you really need to wear glasses, try using a splint or adjust them so the glasses don’t sit or put pressure on your nose.
Quit Smoking and Alcohol: Smoking and alcohol can impair the skin’s healing process, so it is best to quit in advance of surgery. Your doctor may also suggest discontinuing particular medications before surgery, so make sure to disclose everything you are taking.
Check Insurance: If rhinoplasty is being done for cosmetic reasons, your insurance plan may not cover the cost of the procedure. Insurance may cover it if it is being done for medical reasons, to correct a nasal obstruction for instance.