Rhinoplasty is a type of plastic surgery that is performed to enhance the appearance of a person’s nose. The surgeon will reshape the nose to alter the angle between the nose and the upper lip. The surgeon will also change the appearance of the nostrils. All in all, the size of the nose appears smaller. Continue reading to learn what you can expect if you are considering rhinoplasty.
Choosing Rhinoplasty
Before you decide to have rhinoplasty, it is imperative that you choose a certified surgeon such as Dr. Joel Aronowitz. Rhinoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure and takes approximately one to two hours at most. The patient will be administered local or general anesthesia with sedation. Depending on exactly what the patient is looking to have corrected, the surgeon may make an incision across the columella, the tissue that separates the nostrils. The incision may also be made inside the nose.
Many patients choose to have rhinoplasty for several reasons. They may be self-conscious about the way their nose looks, which may affect their quality of life. Rhinoplasty can correct various exterior nasal concerns such as:
- The overall profile of the nose
- The width of the nose on the bridge
- Nostrils that are too large
- The size of the nose in proportion to all other facial features
Following the Procedure
Following rhinoplasty, patients should be able to return to work in about five to seven days. However, the patient must wear tape or a split for a week following the procedure. Strenuous activities and exercise should be limited for at least three weeks following rhinoplasty. Recovery may be somewhat awkward for many patients. The good news is that any pain can be controlled with OTC medication or even CBD oil if you were using it prior to the surgery. If you wear glasses, you should avoid wearing them for up to five weeks after rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty Side Effects
There are some side effects to be aware of that you may experience, such as:
- Tenderness
- Swelling
- Nasal drainage
- Bruising
- Temporary decreased feeling in the nose
More serious risks but less common that are related to rhinoplasty include infection and septum perforation that is caused by incomplete healing.
Costs of a Nose Job
The entire cost of the procedure and recovery can vary depending on the performing physician and the location. There are other factors that are taken into consideration when it comes to the cost, such as the surgeon’s skill level. Is the procedure a revision or a primary case? Is the procedure being performed open or closed? In total, rhinoplasty surgery can range anywhere between $6,000 to $15,000.
As mentioned above, rhinoplasty requires expertise and a certified, experienced plastic surgeon. The nose is delicate and made of bone and cartilage. Even a small change to any part of the nose can affect the remainder of the nose. If you are considering rhinoplasty or wondering if it is right for you, you should schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon for more information.