Rhinoplasty FAQs – Is This Surgery Right for You?
If you are considering rhinoplasty you probably have a list of questions about the procedure, and about whether rhinoplasty is the right procedure for you. Our team at Clark Plastics & Hand Surgery would be delighted to answer any of your questions at a consultation appointment. However, in the meantime we have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions and their answers.
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is the name given to cosmetic surgery that aims to change and improve the appearance of the nose. Also known as a nose job, it can also be performed for functional reasons, such as rebuilding a nose that has been damaged in an accident. The changes that can be achieved using rhinoplasty vary depending on the patient’s needs and desires.
Your nose can be made bigger or smaller
The symmetry of your nose can be corrected
Your nose can be made narrower or wider
The nostrils can be made bigger or smaller
Bumps and hooks can be removed
The septum can be rebuilt
Your airway can be opened, making it easier for you to breathe
Your plastic surgeon in McKinney TX will talk to you about your goals for the procedure and advise you what changes will need to be made to achieve them.
At what age can I have a rhinoplasty procedure?
Rhinoplasty can be safely performed as young as 13/14 years of age and there is no upper age limit, if patients meet the medical and emotional criteria for being a suitable candidate for the procedure. In younger patients, your plastic surgeon in McKinney will need to be satisfied that the child has completed at least 90% of their growth. Every patient is assessed on a case by case basis and will undergo a comprehensive consultation during which their candidacy is evaluated and determined.
Will I be given a general anesthetic?
Rhinoplasty is performed using a general anesthetic. This is administered intravenously, and you will be asleep for the duration of the surgery. You won’t have any recollection of the procedure and will wake up in recovery once the surgery is complete.
How is rhinoplasty performed?
Precisely what will happen in your rhinoplasty will depend on the changes agreed with your plastic surgeon. There are two possible techniques – open and closed rhinoplasty. Open rhinoplasty is when an incision is made across and between the two nostrils. The skin of the nose is then pulled back to expose the cartilage and bone for the necessary changes to be made. Closed rhinoplasty sees the incisions being made inside the nostrils. Where possible, closed rhinoplasty will be performed so that scarring is kept inside the nose and out of sight.
What will happen after my rhinoplasty?
Immediately after your rhinoplasty surgery, you will wake up in the recovery area. You will probably feel confused and disorientated while the anesthetic wears off. Your nose will be packed with gauze and so you will need to breathe through your mouth, and you may have a splint or other dressing over your nose. If you look in the mirror, you will likely have black eyes and see a great deal of swelling. This is normal and will start to subside over the coming days and weeks, although it can take six months or more for all residual swelling to subside.
Will I be in pain after my rhinoplasty procedure?
Many patients are worried about being in pain after any sort of surgery. While some discomfort is to be expected after rhinoplasty, most patients can manage with over the counter pain relief and within a few days, should not require any pain management at all.
How long will it take for me to see the results of my surgery?
You won’t be able to see the results of your surgery right away. It usually takes between four and six weeks for the swelling and bruising to significantly reduce and around three months before the results of your rhinoplasty become obvious and can start to be enjoyed.
For more advice about a rhinoplasty procedure in McKinney TX, or to schedule a consultation with Dr. Clark, please call our office today at (469) 675-3659.
