Rhinoplasty – Things to Consider Before Nose Surgery

Rhinoplasty, or a nose job, is a popular option for when you are unhappy with the shape or size of your nose. The cosmetic benefits are obvious, but the other benefits of rhinoplasty are just as important. A nose job can help improve your nasal function after an injury or illness and can help you with any breathing problems that may affect sleep or exercise.

Things to know about rhinoplasty

The goal of rhinoplasty is to change the nose to a patient’s preferred appearance and functionality. It involves keeping skin type and facial features in mind. There are things anyone considering rhinoplasty should be aware of.

It will require some time off

Patients should plan to take off seven to 10 days from work. The bruising and swelling from the nose job are different for each person. Patients can minimize the bruising and swelling by quitting aspirin and other non-steroid anti-inflammatories at least two weeks before the procedure. The plastic surgeon will generally remove the splint after six or seven days but still, recommend the patient wait a full 10 days to return to work and normal activities.

The final result can take 12 to 15 months

Most of the major swelling will resolve within two weeks. It can take another four to six weeks for residual swelling to resolve. However, all of the residual swelling the patient may experience can take 12 to 15 months to fully recede. This is especially true in the tip of the patient’s nose. Surgeons stress that patients may notice an asymmetrical look to their appearance because of the speed of the swelling. This is normal and should normalize after 12 to 15 months.

What to expect directly after surgery

Patients should not experience significant pain, but there will be some discomfort. Patients can also expect bruising and some stuffiness for a few days after surgery. Some swelling may occur around the patient’s eyes. Surgeons will put a splint in place that will remain for a week. Sometimes, a plastic surgeon will place internal nasal splints.

If a patient has had nasal or septal surgery, they should not exercise for three to four weeks. An increase in heart rate can cause extra swelling, bruising and bleeding. This is especially true if the patient is undergoing a second rhinoplasty or has had septal surgery for nasal airway obstruction.

What to expect at the first post-op appointment

The first post-op appointment generally occurs seven days after surgery. At this point, most surgeons will remove any external and internal splints. Internal splint removal can cause patients some discomfort. Surgeons recommend taking pain relief medication in advance and having someone else drive home.

After the internal splints are removed, patients will be able to breathe better for a few hours. After this, the nose may swell again, especially if the patient had septal surgery. Some surgeons will recommend that patients use a saltwater solution irrigation several times a day to reduce swelling. This will rehydrate the inside of the patient’s nose and promote healing. This should be done for two to three weeks.

Talk to a surgeon about rhinoplasty

One of the ways you can prepare yourself for a nose job is to talk to your doctor or a plastic surgeon about rhinoplasty. Knowing more about the procedure can help you prepare for the discomfort and swelling. It can also help you know what to expect aesthetically.

Are you considering rhinoplasty in the Schaumburg area? Get more information at https://www.paulcdillonmd.com.

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