The term rhinoplasty refers to surgery performed on the nose.
Nose surgery is a specialized procedure, so choosing an experienced surgeon is crucial.
Here’s what you’re able to expect when undergoing a “nose job.”
ADAM GAULT/SPL / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
ADAM GAULT/SPL / Science Photo Library / Getty Images
What Is Rhinoplasty?
When it comes time for surgery, you’ll be placed under conscious sedation with local anesthesia.
Most patients are able to return home on the same day of surgery.
In a closed rhinoplasty, all the incisions are made inside the nose, leaving no visible scars.
Depending on the goal of your surgery, your surgeon will advise on the best technique for your procedure.
Contraindications
Patients age 16 and older may undergo rhinoplasty surgery.
In certain cases, younger patients may qualify.
As with any surgery, the benefits should outweigh the risks.
Once this is determined to be realistic, they can be accepted as a candidate for surgery.
Sometimes revision surgery is necessary to correct issues that arise after nose surgery.
Choosing an experienced surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty will help prevent complications or an unsatisfactory result.
Talk to your healthcare provider and insurance provider before surgery so you know what to expect.
To check that you’re healthy enough for nose surgery, your healthcare provider will order lab tests.
You’ll be advised to get chronic conditions under control, like high blood sugar or blood pressure.
If you’re a smoker, quitting before surgery will reduce yourrisk of complicationsand aid the recovery process.
Your nose has a significant impact on your facial appearance.
To avoid bending down after surgery, slip-on shoes are best.
Some surgery centers have specific rules regarding things like nail polish, make-up, and piercings.
You should always plan to leave valuable jewelry at home when going in for surgery.
If you use contact lenses, wear your glasses to the procedure instead.
Food and Drink
Include lots of nutritious foods in your meal plan before having a rhinoplasty.
If you’re having general anesthesia, you’ll need to follow your healthcare provider’sinstructions on fastingbefore surgery.
Local anesthesia does not require fasting.
Always inform your healthcare provider of all your medications and supplements before nose surgery to avoid any complications.
You should have your identification and insurance information with you.
Make arrangements for a trusted friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery.
This person should be available to stay with you for at least the first night after your procedure.
Here’s how you’ve got the option to expect the big day to unfold.
If you’re not familiar with the facility, leave a few extra minutes to find parking and check-in.
You’ll be provided a hospital gown to change into as you wait for the healthcare provider to enter.
Next, your surgeon will enter to perform the operation.
Your surgery may involve shaving down bone and cartilage, repositioning tissues, or adding a cartilage graft.
Will You Break My Nose?
It is a common misconception that rhinoplasty involves breaking the nasal bones.
The bones are never broken, they are cut to reduce a hump and narrow the nose.
A deviated septum can be straightened for better breathing before the skin is redraped and sutured closed.
Your healthcare provider may place additional incisions to reshape your nostrils as well.
A patient may or may not have gauze packing in the nose.
Internal splints may be used.
Casts are seldom used, but a nasal splint over the nose is common.
These are precut from a material that is hard.
The splint is placed in hot water for a minute or so.
Tape is placed over the nose and the splint is molded onto the nose.
It hardens as it cools.
For the initial days after surgery, it’s best to eat soft, bland foods.
Good choices include yogurts, soft cooked vegetables, soup, soft fruits, or oatmeal.
You won’t be able to chew easily, so crunchy or chewy foods should be avoided.
Stay away from alcohol and caffeine until you’ve had some time to recover.
Foods that are very hot or cold can cause discomfort when healing from nose surgery.
Recovery
Give yourself a full week off from school or work after your nose surgery to recover.
The external splint is removed in one week.
If packing is used it is usually removed in one or occasionally two days after surgery.
Healing
You should expect swelling and bruising during the first week of having nose surgery.
Patience is imperative when recovering from surgery.
Nose surgery is a highly complex procedure and may require a few adjustments to get it right.
Plastic surgery can be addicting, especially if you’ve had a good experience.
A reputable surgeon should be able to advise you against having too much work done.
Weigh the risks and benefits of each procedure to keep yourself from doing more harm than good.
There’s no reason to feel pressured to explain yourself to others.
Let your confidence speak for itself as you enjoy the benefits of a stellar nose job.
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Anthony Bared MD, FACS, Hair Restoration & Rhinoplasty.What to eat before and after rhinoplasty surgery.
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