Q - What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, also known as nose surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to improve the appearance of the nose. Reshaping the nose can help to create better harmony among the facial features. Some breathing problem may also be addressed through rhinoplasty. The nose may be reshaped and improved by increasing or decreasing the overall size, removing a hump, changing the angle between the nose and upper lip, changing the shape of the nasal tip or the bridge, or reducing the span of the nostrils.
Q - How do I know if I’m a good candidate for rhinoplasty?
If you are physically healthy, realistic in your expectations, and seeking an improvement in the appearance and/or function of your nose, you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty.
Q - At what age can rhinoplasty be performed?
It is generally recommended that young patients postpone rhinoplasty until they have reached full growth. This tends to occur around the age of fifteen or sixteen.
Q - What will happen during a consultation for rhinoplasty?
During your consultation, the surgeon will talk to you about your goals and what you dislike about your nose. A thorough medical history will be taken and an examination will be performed whereby the structure of your nose and face will be evaluated. All aspects of the surgery will be explained including the technique, the facility, the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks and the associated costs. Photographs may be also be taken at the time of consultation.
Q - Where does the rhinoplasty procedure take place?
Rhinoplasty surgery may take place in a surgeon’s office-based facility, an outpatient surgery center or a hospital.
Q - What type of anesthesia will I receive for my rhinoplasty procedure?
Rhinoplasty is often performed with a combination of local anesthesia and sedation, though general anesthesia is sometimes used instead.
Q - How is rhinoplasty surgery performed?
For the rhinoplasty procedure, incisions are often made on the inside of the nose, though an additional small incision may be made in the area of skin separating the nostrils. Through the incisions, the bone and cartilage support system of the nose may be accessed. The nose is reshaped by removing, adding to or rearranging certain amounts of the underlying bone and cartilage. The tissues are then redraped over the new frame, and the incisions are then closed. A splint is applied to the outside of the nose and absorbent material may be placed inside of the nose.
Q - How long is the surgery for rhinoplasty?
The average surgery time for rhinoplasty is about one to two hours.
Q - Where are the incisions located for rhinoplasty?
The incisions for rhinoplasty are often made on the inside of the nose, though some cases require an additional small incision made in the area of skin separating the nostrils.
Q - Will I have scars after my rhinoplasty procedure?
When the incisions are made on the inside of the nose only, there is no visible scarring. Some cases of rhinoplasty require that a small incision be made in the area of skin separating the nostrils which results in a small, well-concealed scar.
Q - How much pain can I expect after my rhinoplasty procedure?
You may experience some discomfort as the head and nose may ache at first, but this can be relieved with prescription medication.
Q - Will I need someone else to drive me home after my rhinoplasty procedure or will I be able to drive myself?
Because you will not be able to drive yourself home after your rhinoplasty procedure, you will need to arrange for a ride.
Q - What should I expect of the recovery after my rhinoplasty procedure?
You should expect some bruising and swelling after your rhinoplasty surgery. Most of this will fade within about two weeks, though some subtle swelling can remain for as long as a year afterward. Bleeding may also occur, and pain medication may be necessary to help control any discomfort that you experience. Nasal packing, if used, is often removed the day after surgery while the splint is removed within about five to eight days. Stitches may be removed within one to two weeks.
Q - How much time should I plan to take off from work after my rhinoplasty procedure?
Normal activities, including work, can usually be resumed within one to two weeks after rhinoplasty.
Q - How soon after my rhinoplasty procedure will I be able to exercise?
Any strenuous exercise should be postponed for about two to three weeks. It’s also important that you avoid hitting or injuring the nose and risking sunburn for at least eight weeks.
Q - When will the stitches be removed after my rhinoplasty surgery?
The stitches may be removed within one to two weeks after surgery.
Q - What risks are associated with rhinoplasty?
As with all types of surgery, there are some risks that are associated with rhinoplasty and these may include adverse anesthesia reactions, incomplete improvement, infection, small burst blood vessels, and the need for additional surgery.
Q - Will my rhinoplasty surgery be covered by insurance?
Rhinoplasty procedures which are solely cosmetic in nature are generally not covered by insurance. When the surgery is performed to correct a breathing or deformity or for reconstructive purposes, the procedure may be covered to some degree. Patients should be sure to check with their own insurance company.
Q - Can I finance my rhinoplasty procedure?
Financing is available for plastic surgery procedures.
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Rhinoplasty
