If you’re considering having rhinoplasty, or a nose job, and you live in a large metropolitan area like Houston for example, finding a great plastic surgeon can be overwhelming. Everyone knows… “You don’t want just ANYONE messing with your nose!” When considering plastic surgery, you want the best surgeon possible, and you want to be well informed about the procedure. Therefore, in order to find the right surgeon, here are at least 5 things a great surgeon should tell you about rhinoplasty.
#1 You’ll need an initial consultation…
A professional plastic surgeon will want to have an initial consultation with you, not only to gather health history and medical information, but also, to find out your reason for considering rhinoplasty, and help you determine if it is feasible; and, if there are other similar options available. Furthermore, good doctors will give you the opportunity to ask pertinent questions about the surgery. During the time of the consultation, be sure to learn- what to expect from the surgery, what are the possible complications, recovery times, and what preparations you’ll need to make beforehand.
#2 Make necessary preparations before you have surgery…
Rhinoplasties require preparation, and should begin at least a month or so before the surgery. First, you will need to consider making financial preparations, or obtain proper insurance authorizations beforehand. If the surgery is only partially covered, or not covered by insurance, payment arrangements will need to be in place. Moreover, you may need to make a few lifestyle changes to ensure that the surgery is safe and effective. For example, discontinuing the use of aspirin, ibuprofen, certain vitamins, and nicotine and cigarettes, is vital. Other proactive options would be to make arrangements for time off, as well as to stock up on medications so that they are readily available. Patients will also want to consider rounding up help, or personal assistance during and after the surgery.
#3 There are two main reasons for this surgery…
Though rhinoplasties can be performed for various reasons, in most cases, there are two main reasons: for cosmetic purposes, or for medical health purposes. For persons who are unhappy with the size or shape of their nose, and/or if people feel that they are unattractive and the look of their nose may limit certain advancement opportunities, getting the surgery could help alleviate those issues.
In other instances, there are medical health reasons for having a rhinoplasty. These include things like deformities at birth, accidents or injuries to the nose, as well as malformations making it difficult for a person to breathe.
#4 You can expect the following surgical process...
The ultimate purpose of a rhinoplasty is to reconstruct the shape of the nose; be it from inside the nose or outside- called a closed or open rhinoplasty. The results will be to help one breath better, or to ultimately improve the overall appearance of the nose to better complement one’s face.
As one of the most common cosmetic procedures, your plastic surgeon will tell you that it is relatively simple and carries little risk. The closed surgical procedure is often preferred because it takes less time, and the recovery period is shorter.
While each situation is different, the surgery generally takes 2-3 hours, and surgeons prefer to administer general anesthesia to help patients feel comfortable. The healing and recovery process is especially vital to the success of the surgery.
#5 There are important things to remember during the recovery process…
After surgery, you will receive more after care instructions. You’ll need to keep your head elevated, stay hydrated, keep cold compresses handy, and rest. The doctor will prescribe pain medication, and you should avoid strenuous activities. You will not feel well for the first few days, and you should be very careful around small jovial children, excited pets, or things that could bump your nose. It will take 1-2 weeks before returning to your normal comfort and activity level. Though everyone recovers at different rates, bruising and swelling should disappear in approximately 3 weeks; and full effects may take up 6-9 months.
Considering rhinoplasty? Consult with Dr. Bradford Patt, one of Houston’s best plastic surgeons. Call 281.649.7170.
