What should I consider before having rhinoplasty?
The first thing you may need to thoroughly think of before turning to nose surgery is whether this procedure is really necessary to
you. Is your nose so ugly that you can’t stand it anymore? Do you believe that reshaping it will improve your self-image considerably?
If the answer is yes and having a new look is everything you desire, you may start planning for rhinoplasty.
How do I plan my nose surgery?
Making an appointment with a cosmetic surgery is the first step.
He will explain the procedure in every detail and will also present the risks associated with it. Your general medical history will be
discussed and a complete nasal history assessment will later be performed. He will also analyse your face and determine proper
proportions as well as the surgical options for you.
How do I prepare for surgery?
The doctor will also give you instructions on how to prepare for this kind of surgery. There are certain changes you will need to make
to your eating and drinking habits (taking vitamins, avoiding medications, etc.) Some tips about washing your face and keeping the
proper nasal hygiene may be given to you as well.
What type of anaesthetic will be used?
For small adjustments of the nose, local anaesthesia is preferred (your nose and the surrounding area will be numbed). If you need a
more extensive procedure or septal surgery, the doctor will use general anaesthesia, which means you will be sleeping throughout the
operation.
What takes place during the nose surgery?
During this kind of surgery, the skin of your nose will be separated from the cartilage and bone for them to be re-shaped as desired.
After that, the skin will be secured to the new framework.
How long will the nose surgery take?
Rhinoplasty takes one or two hours. If the procedure is more complicated, it may take longer than that.
What can I expect after my nose surgery?
A slight headache is possible after the operation. If you keep your head and neck elevated, swelling can be reduced and you will feel
less uncomfortable. A little drainage for a couple of days after the operation is a natural thing. You are not supposed to blow your
nose while the tissues heal.
How long will it take for life to return to normal?
Healing is a slow process. You will be given instructions and medications to apply. You might have to take some oral medication too in
order to prevent infection. It will take you about a year to see the results of this operation. Swelling is common for up to six months
after nose surgery and the cartilage may continue to reshape a little over time.
How will I feel about my new look?
It depends on how serious the changes are. If your new nose is much different from what it was before the operation, it might take you
several weeks to get used to your new look.
Does rhinoplasty carry any risk?
Any kind of surgery implies potential complications. Nose surgery may bring about: rupture of surface vessels of the nose, poor healing
of the wound and unfavourable scarring, haematoma and the formation of blood clots (in longer procedures), numbness of the skin, nasal
airway alterations, irritation caused by sutures surfing through the skin, etc.