Rhinoplasty is among the top five most common cosmetic procedures on a global scale and by far the most complex facial surgery. Rhinoplasty procedures are so popular that the global market size is worth a staggering $6 billion with an expected CAGR of about 6.5 percent by 2028.
Now, if you have been thinking about getting a nose job procedure, you must wonder what you may expect before, during, and after the procedure. Well, worry no more because we’re here to answer any questions you may have.
We have compiled a comprehensive guide that will detail everything that goes on during rhinoplasty procedures. We’ll help you understand how to prepare and how to go through the recovery phase successfully. Read on to uncover all the answers below.
Start By Locating the Best Plastic Surgeon for the Job
Choosing to undergo a nose job procedure requires thoughtful consideration. Before you undergo the procedure, understand exactly what to expect. Your nose is a major part of who you are.
Any changes will impact your appearance, attractiveness, and any physical links to your ethnic heritage. There are certain potential risks associated with rhinoplasty procedures, such as asymmetry and a runny or dry nose. You also risk the loss of sensation, anesthesia risks, bleeding, and infection.
You see, nose jobs are highly specialized and complex surgical procedures. For this reason, finding the best plastic surgeon is the most essential part of a successful one.
Choosing a professional and experienced surgeon will help avoid revision surgery. It’ll also eliminate any chances of complications or unsatisfactory results. To find the best surgeon, book initial consultations with at least three potential candidates.
During the initial consultation, compare their experience and approach to rhinoplasty procedures. It’s imperative that you be candid and completely honest about your goals and what you intend to achieve with the surgery.
Ask as many questions as possible to gauge the surgeon’s expertise, which will help you make an informed decision. You should be sure which surgeon you want to trust with your nose job procedure by the end of it.
What To Expect During Consultation
During the consultation, the plastic surgeon should ask about your medical history. Your medical history is crucial because it will give the surgeon insights into any underlying conditions. They’ll know the current and ongoing medications that may interfere with your surgery and recovery.
Expect to undergo a physical exam where the surgeon will check your facial features and symmetry. They’ll pinpoint the main issues and take digital images that’ll help recreate the nose you want. You’ll discuss which type of rhinoplasty you want, from open rhinoplasty to closed rhinoplasty, tip plasty, or Korean rhinoplasty.
The surgeon will then set you up for a second meeting where you’ll discuss their operative plans. During the second meeting, you will review the operative plan together with the surgeon. If the plan is satisfactory, the surgeon will set up an appointment when you’ll undergo the surgery.
How To Prepare for First Time Rhinoplasty
Before rhinoplasty procedures, patients are advised to stay as healthy as possible at least a few weeks prior. It’s of absolute importance that you avoid taking blood-thinning medications such as aspirin. It’ll help avoid bleeding during the surgery.
You should also try not to smoke, avoid alcohol, and eat a healthy diet of whole grains, lean protein, fruits, and vegetables. The night before the surgery, wash your face thoroughly, avoid using cosmetic products, and get enough sleep.
You should also avoid wearing makeup on the day of the surgery. Choose comfortable clothing that is easy to change before and after the surgery.
You may also want to wear slip-on shoes to avoid bending down after the surgery. Bring any requirements paperwork such as insurance papers and identification. Beyond that, have a trustworthy friend or family member drive you to and from the clinic.
What To Expect During the Rhinoplasty Procedure
Do they put you to sleep for a rhinoplasty? This is usually a concern for a lot of people, and it really depends on the complexity of the surgery. If the cosmetic surgeon expects your rhinoplasty to be complicated, they may choose to use general anesthesia.
However, if the nose job procedure is minimal, they may choose local anesthesia. During the surgery, the specialist will create incisions inside your nostrils or under your nose.
They’ll lift the skin to access underlying cartilage and bones in order to reshape the tissue. Once complete, lay back the skin and stitch the incisions.
The surgeon will place internal splints, nasal packing, or pieces of gauze in your nostrils to reduce bleeding and keep the septum in place. These will be removed after a few days, but they’re vital because they maintain the shape of the surgery. After the procedure, the surgeon will instruct you on what to do during the recovery phase.
What To Expect During Recovery
Being an invasive surgical procedure, it’s essential for you to take a few days to rest after rhinoplasty. Different people have different reactions to rhinoplasty procedures.
That said, you may expect swelling, bruising, discomfort, breathing problems, and minimal bleeding. During the first week of surgery, avoid removing the splint until the doctor says so.
The doctor will prescribe pain medications to reduce general discomfort. Given that pain medications may cause nausea, avoid eating regular foods and opt for bland and soft foods instead. Things like soups, soft fruits, vegetables, yogurt, and oatmeal are generally good options.
It’s advisable to avoid caffeine and alcohol during the first few days of surgery and wear contact lenses instead of glasses. Too hot or too cold foods and drinks may also cause discomfort. Avoid vigorous activities that may cause you bleeding due to an increased heart rate.
By the second week, expect the doctor to remove the splints and your swelling and bruising to have abated. Avoid lifting heavy objects, prolonged sun exposure, as well as makeup or facial creams unless prescribed by the doctor.
Expect to feel recovered by the sixth week, and your doctor to allow you to perform moderate activities. At this point, you may be able to resume your life completely. You can wear makeup and glasses comfortably.
Rhinoplasty Procedures: Everything You Should Expect
Being some of the most common surgical procedures, rhinoplasty procedures or invasive and can be quite complex. It’s imperative for you to search for the expertise of a seasoned surgeon to ensure maximum satisfaction.
Beyond this, please check out our blog section for more informative articles.
