What will I look like immediately after surgery?
A small splint will be placed on the nose immediately after the surgery and remain for one week at which time the splint will be removed and the nose cleaned. There may be some bruising and swelling around the eyes. Cold compresses and anti-inflammation medication can aid in recovery.
Is there a difference between a “nose job” and rhinoplasty?
No. When they talk about a “nose job,” patients are using a slang term for nasal surgery. Rhinoplasty is the technical medical term for cosmetic nasal surgery.
Is there much pain involved with the surgery?
Usually there is mild discomfort with nasal surgery. Oral medication will be prescribed to help with the discomfort. Cold compresses also help with discomfort.
Will my nose be packed?
Dr. Saigal uses a small, gentle cotton ball coated with antibiotic ointment that is placed in each nostril. This is because a special quilting suture is used to control any bleeding and greatly decrease the amount of discomfort associated with formal nasal packing. A small drip dressing will be applied after surgery.
How long will my nose be swollen?
As a rule, 80% of the swelling is gone after two weeks; another 10% after two months. The tip of the nose may retain swelling longer and continued improvement in the tip can be seen over the next several months. There may be some temporary numbness of skin of the nose which improves with time.
When will I be able to return to my usual activities?
Most patients can be seen in public in a week, after the splint is removed. It is important to avoid strenuous activity for 2 weeks. At this time you can gradually work back to your usual routine, including exercise. Contact sports should be avoided for 6 weeks.
What are the risks?
There are risks with any surgical procedure; however, the risks of facial plastic surgery are minimal. Bleeding, infection, unfavorable scarring, asymmetry, septal perforation (hole in septum), and persistent nasal deformity are rare. These will be discussed during your consultation as well as ways to avoid them.
How much do these procedures cost?
A purely cosmetic procedure is never covered by insurance. However, if a patient has difficulty breathing and is found to have a deviated nasal septum or nasal allergy resulting in enlarged turbinates, the functional portion of the surgery may be covered by insurance. A sinus condition may be treated at the same time as a rhinoplasty. For your convenience, our practice offers CareCredit financing support for all cosmetic fees.