Rhinoplasty, or a nose job, is one of the most common cosmetic procedures. Recent statistics from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons show that over 200,000 rhinoplasty procedures are performed every year.
Despite the popularity of this procedure, undergoing any rhinoplasty is a health decision that needs serious thought. If you’re currently deciding if rhinoplasty is the right procedure for you, take these 5 steps before making your decision.
Do Your Research
When considering rhinoplasty, also commonly called a nose job, be sure to do plenty of research so that you can feel confident in your understanding of the procedure, the outcomes, and the price.
Depending on the patient, their nose, and the desired outcome, the exact procedure varies. The surgeon generally makes an incision at the base of the nose and then readjusts the bone and cartilage beneath the skin.
After you consult your doctor, they should detail the exact plan to make sure the procedure achieves the desired outcome. Every rhinoplasty has its own distinctive aspects.
Another important thing to research is the cost of the procedure. Understanding the expected price of cosmetic procedures ahead of time will help you accurately anticipate how much your budget will afford.
In some cases, insurance may cover an operation, but it ultimately depends on the policy. Ask your insurance provider about your coverage, and also discuss funding options with your doctor.
Consider the Advantages
Rhinoplasty can offer a range of advantages. If you’re unhappy with your nose’s shape, cosmetic procedures to improve its appearance may result in a real confidence boost. Surgeons can change the size of your nose, straighten your bridge, reshape your tip, and narrow your nostrils.
A rhinoplasty procedure can even improve breathing quality. Whether an obstruction is the result of an injury or an abnormality, a surgeon can realign the nasal structure to open blocked airways. The result is more productive and comfortable breathing.
Weigh the Risks
With any procedure, there are risks. Rhinoplasty is no different. The most common risks associated with this procedure are bruising, infection, and adverse reactions to anesthesia.
If you’re dissatisfied with the final outcome or if you experience a negative side effect, there’s also a small risk that you might need additional surgery or medical attention. Though these risks are uncommon, it’s important to mentally prepare yourself for the possibility.
Plan for Recovery
After the surgery, you should expect to spend some time healing. If you have upcoming plans, factor those into the timing of your surgery. You don’t want to get a nose job a week before your wedding or a big presentation at work.
Most nose jobs are performed as an outpatient procedure, and you can head home a few hours later. Though it doesn’t generally require a hospital stay, there’s still a recovery period to consider.
In several cases, the surgeon leaves a splint and bandages in place for a week following the surgery. Bruising and swelling are expected, and you’ll need to pay close attention to your nose, being extra gentle with the surgical area.
Some patients experience facial bruising throughout the recovery process, which could make you hesitant to jump back into regular activities. If you wear glasses, you’ll need to take special precautions to keep the frames from resting on the surgical area.
Ultimately, it would help if you planned to take it easy for one to two weeks following the rhinoplasty to promote healing and prevent infection.
Be Honest with Your Doctor
To ensure that you have the best outcome from the procedure, be open with your doctor from the start. This principle applies to any medical setting, but for cosmetic procedures, it’s crucial to be honest with your doctor about the issue you’re experiencing and the desired outcome.
You’re trusting the doctor to make a permanent alteration to your appearance, so you need to clearly explain what you’re hoping for. Don’t you like the shape of your nose?
Do you have any trouble breathing through your nose at night? Either way, your surgeon will work with you to create a custom solution to achieve the perfect result — you only need to be clear about what that result should be.
No matter where you’re at in the process of considering rhinoplasty, the most important thing to remember is that you’re in control of your body and your health. Undergoing any surgery is a big decision, and the most significant factors to consider when making that decision are your health and your happiness.
There’s no such thing as a perfect nose, but plastic surgeons can use their experience to help you achieve your desired look. Do your research and communicate honestly with your doctor, and you can proceed with confidence.
