Do you have rhinoplasty questions? Well we’ve got answers! Browse the questions below to get answers to some of the most common questions about rhinoplasty surgery! From the cost of rhinoplasty to rhinoplasty recovery!
Q: What is rhinoplasty?
A: A rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that is performed to change the shape or look of a nose or improve its function due to trauma or birth defects.
Q: How much does rhinoplasty cost?
A: The cost of rhinoplasty greatly depends on your geographic location and how much alteration you want or need to have done to your nose. The average cost of a rhinoplasty procedure ranges from $2,879 USD to $10,200 USD. The average cost does not take into consideration an overnight hospital stay if required. If you have documented breathing issues, your health insurance may cover a portion of the procedure. Before you schedule your rhinoplasty, contact your health insurer to discuss the possibilities of the procedure being covered.
Q: What are the risks of rhinoplasty?
A: Rhinoplasty is a generally safe surgical procedure, but as with any surgery, things can go wrong. The most common risks during a rhinoplasty procedure are infection, adverse reaction to the anesthesia, and excessive bleeding. There is also the slight possibility that you will need additional surgery in the future. Another risk in regards to cosmetic rhinoplasty is that you may be unhappy with the procedure — rhinoplasty has the highest rate of revision in cosmetic surgery.
Q: How can I prepare for rhinoplasty?
A: Prior to the rhinoplasty your surgeon will go over the realistic expectations of your procedure. He or she will determine what needs to be done and the most appropriate methods to use in order to meet your expectations. As far as what you can do to prepare for your rhinoplasty, it is recommended that you don’t take any medications that may inhibit blood clotting or cause postoperative bleeding problems such as aspirin and ibuprofen. If you smoke, it is also recommended that you stop smoking at least a month before your surgery and don’t start again until a month afterward. Smoking greatly slows down the healing process and will extend the time it takes you to recover. This may be a good time to quit smoking altogether.
Q: What can I expect during rhinoplasty?
A: Your rhinoplasty will generally be performed under general anesthesia and the entire surgery typically lasts no more than two hours. Depending on your situation, your surgeon may make an incision across the bottom of your nose between your nostrils (known as the open technique), or in the lining of your nostrils (known as the closed technique). Your surgeon will then remove or rearrange cartilage, and in some cases break and rearrange bone to reshape the nose. Afterward, the surgeon or health care team closes the incisions and your nose is packed with gauze. Usually, a nasal split is also applied.
Q: What is the recovery time for rhinoplasty?
A: Your surgeon will require you to wear a nasal splint for the first 7-10 days after your rhinoplasty. After your surgery, you may have moderate swelling and bruising around your eyes that could last up to two weeks. You should avoid strenuous activity for up to four weeks after your surgery; your physician will let you know when it’s safe for you to return to your daily activities.
Q: What can I expect after rhinoplasty?
A: Results from a rhinoplasty surgery can typically be seen once the swelling goes down and your physician removes the nasal splint. Nasal breathing is also difficult for about 3 weeks after the surgery due to swelling. Most, if not all, of the swelling is gone two months after you have the surgery performed. As your doctor may tell you. you should see your nose becoming more refined over the following months.
Q: What are the alternatives to rhinoplasty?
A: When it comes to alternatives to cosmetic rhinoplasty, there are none. But if you’re looking to improve your breathing you can try using nasal strips as a non-surgical means of correcting the issue.