What should you know if you are considering getting rhinoplasty surgery?

It would be best if you did your research before getting any surgery, especially one that impacts the appearance of your face. A rhinoplasty or nose job is a common surgery, but you should do your research to ensure you are prepared for the surgery.

Why is rhinoplasty surgery so popular?

In the United States, over 200,000 rhinoplasties were done in 2018. This surgery is the third most popular cosmetic surgery in the United States. Despite its popularity, rhinoplasty is one of the most complicated surgeries within the field of Plastic Surgery. Every person has a different facial structure and tissues, which makes it challenging to create the same nose in multiple patients. Rhinoplasty is not always done for solely cosmetic reasons, and it can also be done to improve nasal function. For many, the surgery has improved their breathing and provided them with the facial aesthetic they are looking for. Many people consider having a rhinoplasty due to prior injury to their nose, breathing problems, or to change the appearance of their nose. These are all very valid reasons to decide to have a rhinoplasty. [1]

What are the reasons people get rhinoplasty?

There are two main reasons that people have an operation on their nose. The first is for cosmetic reasons. Many people dislike their nose shape. Most people notice the bridge of their nose or the tip. Sometimes there is a bump that patients want removed. Wideness, roundness, or lack of definition are other reasons people seek out rhinoplasty. 

A medical reason is another common motive for having an operation on their nose. An injury that broke or bent the nose may need correction through a rhinoplasty for the nose to look like it did originally. Sometimes there are blockages in the nasal airway that limit breathing, and this can be fixed surgically. 

The most common nose operations are to alter a bump on the nose, reshape the tip of the nose, alter the length, change the width of the nose or nostrils, or to restructure the nose after an injury. [2]

What happens during recovery?

It takes a few months to see the full effect of the surgery. It takes six months for the swelling to go down fully. After a week, stitches will be removed, and the splint will come off. For three weeks, the patient will have bruises and redness. After six weeks, the patient can exercise. Some things recommended during recovery are: elevating your head, avoiding hot baths, sneezing with your mouth open, avoiding smoky or dusty places, and not blowing your nose. [3]

Recovery from rhinoplasty is not very difficult, and side effects are pretty minimal. Your doctor will ensure you are well-prepared and educated on the recovery process. The discomfort from the surgery shouldn’t last very long. It will take some patience to wait six months for the full results, but it will be worth it in the end.

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