What is Rhinoplasty?
A rhinoplasty or “nose job” is a surgical procedure that is performed to improve the proportions of your nose as well as facial harmony. Besides being a cosmetic procedure, it is also performed to repair certain structural defects or imperfections that lead to breathing problems.
If you are planning on undergoing a nose job to achieve a perfectly symmetrical nose, you should realize that everybody’s nose and face has some level of asymmetry. Rhinoplasty can help you achieve better proportion and facial balance, but you will not get a completely symmetrical nose.
Making the Decision to Undergo a Rhinoplasty Surgery
If you are planning on undergoing a nose job, it is important that you first meet with a professional cosmetic surgeon to learn more about the details behind the surgery. During your meeting, discuss your goals and desired results. Tell your doctor about any defects or breathing difficulties that you have that you would like to be corrected in the process.
Your surgeon should ideally be a specialist in rhinoplasty and has a history of performing the procedure with success in the past. He can evaluate your facial features and nasal structure to determine the best course of action for your nose job.
They are also the best people to tell you if you are aiming too high with your expectations. During the consultation, the doctor will make a note of your health and advise you on any changes or steps that need to be taken.
Rhinoplasty involves various techniques. Your surgeon will determine the best technique to achieve your desired results and how they propose to go about it.
What to Expect During the Rhinoplasty Surgery
Rhinoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure, so you will not be required to stay overnight. Depending on your case, the procedure may require local or general anesthesia. During the procedure, your surgeon will make small incisions within your nostrils. This allows them to reshape the skin, tissue, and cartilage within your nose. In more severe cases, such as with trauma, the surgeon may make an incision across the base. This gives them access to reshape the inner cartilage and bone. This results in a nose that is in better proportion to the rest of the face.
After the procedure, you will experience some swelling and soreness around the nose and eyes for around a week. Your doctor will prescribe some painkillers and anti-inflammatory medication to keep you comfortable during this period.
Your nose will have some slight swelling that will be noticeable only to you and your doctor. This swelling will come down over the next few months. While the results of the rhinoplasty are immediately noticeable, the final shape and structure will only be apparent after your nose has completely healed.
It is advised that you refrain from participating in strenuous activity for at least three weeks after the surgery. You can return to your regular social activities within a couple of weeks. Unless you have undergone a dramatic transformation with the nose job, no one will be able to tell you have had the procedure done.
Rhinoplasty is a procedure that is safe for all ages, but it is best to discuss potential risks and side effects with your plastic surgeon. Make sure you are completely on board with the ideas put forth by your doctor. Follow his instructions so you can enjoy your new nose without any complications.
Contact Our Office
A rhinoplasty surgery is perfect for people who require both cosmetic and functional corrections to their noses. If you’re interested in learning more about the surgery, contact our office to schedule an appointment with skilled plastic surgeon Dr. Ryan Hoffman.