Answered: 4 FAQs on Rhinoplasty
Having a slim and sharper nose bridge can make your face look more proportionate. So if you’re considering enhancing your nose, then this guide will help you!
Here, we curated the things you need to know about rhinoplasty, including answers to frequently asked questions.
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a procedure mostly known as a “nose job.” It’s a process where a surgeon reconstructs the nose to its desired shape and size.
It can be considered as corrective rhinoplasty (i.e. plastic surgery for aesthetic reasons) or reconstructive rhinoplasty, which is used to help those with sinus or breathing issues. It can address problems around the cartilage, bone, and skin of the nose as well.
Not everyone can undergo rhinoplasty. For one, you need to consider your age, considering that the minimum age allowed to undergo this procedure is 18 or 19 years old when the nose is fully matured.
Another thing that you should also consider is the price of the procedure, which can range from $4,000 to a staggering $20,000.
What to expect before rhinoplasty?
Prior to rhinoplasty, your doctor will fill you in with information on how the procedure works, along with its benefits and risks. Keep in mind that you’ll be under general anaesthesia during the surgery as well.
The day before rhinoplasty, be sure to also avoid the following:
- Cigarettes or tobacco intake
- Alcohol consumption
- Direct exposure to UV light
- Blood-thinning medications like Aspirin or supplements like fish oil
To prepare ahead of time, you should drink plenty of water to hydrate. Keep in mind that you should avoid wearing make-up during the surgery too.
What to expect after rhinoplasty?
After the surgery, your nose will be wrapped with soft nasal packing, tapes, and even a splint to protect your nose. In some cases, you may feel a subtle trickling of blood at the back of your throat.
Don’t be alarmed when that happens though—it’s a normal aftereffect of the surgery.
In most cases, most patients are immediately discharged after the procedure. Meanwhile, those who have sensitive reactions are required to stay overnight at the hospital for close observation.
To give you an idea, here are some of the effects you can expect after rhinoplasty:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Residual Bleeding
- Nasal Drip
- Numbness
Swelling and bruising are normal reactions of the body after undergoing any invasive surgery. Usually, swelling lasts for 2 to 3 weeks while bruising can gradually lessen over 10 days after the procedure.
Residual bleeding can be expected as well. If bleeding starts to occur, be sure to lie down with your head elevated and apply cold compress over your forehead.
For patients with allergic rhinitis, nasal drip can happen. Typically, most doctors will prescribe a course of antihistamines to reduce this.
Another thing to expect is numbness or having no sensation at your nose at all, which will subside gradually over the next few weeks.
What should I do after getting rhinoplasty?
For the first 48 hours after the surgery, you may feel discomfort surrounding your nose area. So it’s advisable to be extra careful and follow certain tips to take care of your wound.
Here are some things you should keep in mind:
- Keep your nasal tapes and splint dry
- Take your medications on time
- Gently change the gauze on your nose for the first 24 hours
- Apply prescribed ointment 3 to 4 times a day along the suture lines
- Avoid vigorous activities like exercise or running
Your nose will be much more delicate for the next 2 to 3 months. As it starts to heal from the surgery, avoid blowing your nose and try to be gentle when you sneeze.