If you’ve ever wanted to change the size or shape of your nose, you may be interested in rhinoplasty. This procedure, commonly referred to as a nose job, is a safe and effective way to augment the nose. Keep reading to learn more about rhinoplasty surgeries.
What Can Rhinoplasty Accomplish?
Each rhinoplasty procedure is different. Patients who decide to undergo this procedure all have specific aesthetic goals, ranging from nostril reduction to hump removal. Most rhinoplasty patients want a smaller nose, a straighter bridge, or a thinner tip. Surgeons use various techniques to alter the structure of the nasal structure. In the end, patients are left with noses that are vastly improved, both cosmetically and functionally.
What Happens at a Rhinoplasty Consultation?
At a rhinoplasty consultation, you and your prospective surgeon will discuss your goals. The surgeon will examine the inside and outside of your nose and assess whether you are a good candidate for surgery.
Is There a Minimum Age Requirement?
Because the faces changes throughout puberty, most surgeons don’t perform rhinoplasty procedures until the age of 15 at minimum.
What Are the Types of Rhinoplasty Surgery?
There are two primary types of rhinoplasty surgery: closed technique and open technique. When an open rhinoplasty is performed, a small incision is made between the nostrils. For a closed rhinoplasty, the incision is made inside of the nostrils. Both techniques have benefits and drawbacks. Open rhinoplasties give surgeons greater freedom to alter nasal shape, and they are often recommended for people looking to correct an over-projected tip. They can leave the nose with a small incision scar, however, and they also lead to a greater amount of swelling. Closed rhinoplasties, on the other hand, often take less time to perform, and they require less postoperativepost operative healing. For some cases, however, closed rhinoplasties may not be sufficient for the desired outcome.
How Long Does the Procedure Take?
The length of your rhinoplasty procedure will depend on your individual needs and goals. Most primary rhinoplasty procedures take about two hours or less.
Is the Procedure Painful?
Most patients don’t experience severe discomfort due to the rhinoplasty procedure. There may be some mild nausea immediately following the surgery, and some patients experience headaches. For most people, these symptoms are easily managed with pain medication and bed rest.
What Is the Recovery Like?
After a rhinoplasty procedure, most patients experience swelling and bruising for at least a week. Patients typically wear a splint on their nose for about a week. During this week, patients are advised to stay at home and avoid strenuous activity. The splint will be removed at a follow up appointment with the surgeon, at which point patients can resume their normal schedules.
The rhinoplasty swelling will continue for at least a month after the procedure. For some people, it can take up to a year for all of the swelling to resolve.