A nose job or rhinoplasty surgery can be performed to address structural problems or cosmetic imperfections with the nose. The success rate for nose surgery is between 80 and 90%, and working with an experienced plastic surgeon can improve your chances of a successful outcome. In this article, we will explain ‘how does a nose job work’ so you can prepare for your procedure.
Why Is Rhinoplasty Surgery Done?
A nose job can change the proportions, size and shape of your nose to improve your facial harmony. Nose surgery may also be performed to address breathing problems, or repair the nose after an accident or trauma.
How Does A Nose Job Work: Your First Consultation
Finding the right plastic surgeon to work with increases your chances of a satisfactory outcome. A full consultation is needed to plan your nose surgery thoroughly. This is what you can expect from your first appointment:
Your goals and objectives
Your plastic surgeon will want to know what your objectives and goals for your nose surgery are. It’s important to define your expectations at the beginning, so your surgeon knows what he or she is aiming for.
Your medical history
You can expect to give a full medical history that includes any previous surgeries, health conditions and medications you might be taking. Your surgeon will discuss potential risks with you before you go ahead.
A physical examination will be done
The surgeon will take a look at your facial features, paying close attention to your nose. He or she will assess the strength of your nasal cartilage and the thickness of your skin. All of these factors need to be taken into account when planning a nose job.
Photographs will be taken
You can expect to have photographs taken of your face from different angles. Some surgeons will use software to manipulate the photographs to show you what can be achieved with rhinoplasty surgery. The photographs will also be used after your nose job, to compare pre and post-operative results.
How Does A Nose Job Work: During The Surgery
Each patient is unique, and each nose job is different. After your consultation, your surgeon will present you with a treatment plan outlining the steps that will be followed in your nose surgery.
The complexity of your nose job will determine whether you have local anaesthetic or general anaesthetic with sedation. Your surgeon will discuss these options with you ahead of your surgery.
How is rhinoplasty surgery done?
A nose job can be performed by making an incision inside the nose or at the base of the nose between the nostrils. Once the incision has been made, the cartilage and bone will be readjusted. There are different approaches to nose jobs that enable your surgeon to change the size, shape and structure of the nasal bones and cartilage. Minor changes can be made using cartilage from your ear or other parts of the nose. If major changes are required, the surgeon may take cartilage from other parts of your body. Once the structural changes have been completed, the skin and tissue are put back into place, and the skin is stitched up.
How Does A Nose Job Work: Healing And Recovery
It usually takes seven to 10 days for most of the swelling and bruising to subside. You can expect to take at least a week to recover at home, after which time you may feel well enough to resume your day-to-day activities. Most people return to work after the second or third week after rhinoplasty surgery.
You will be given post-operative care instructions to help you care for your wounds and minimise swelling and bleeding.
You will be told to keep your head propped upright and to avoid blowing your nose during the first week. If you are given any medication, you should take it as scheduled, as it will help you to heal faster.
It is always a good idea to get help around the house after nose surgery so that you can dedicate your recovery period to healing.
Some other helpful tips include
- To bath instead of showering to keep your bandages dry
- To avoid heavy lifting and strenuous physical activities
- Eat a diet that is fibre-rich and drink plenty of water to avoid constipation
- To rest and sleep as much as possible.
What To Expect After A Nose Job
It takes up to 12 months for you to heal fully after rhinoplasty. While you will heal gradually over the course of weeks and months, your nose shape will only be final after around a year. Sometimes patients want to have revisional surgery done, but this should only be considered once their healing period is over.
When choosing a plastic surgeon, it is a good idea to seek a second opinion. It’s also good practice to ask to see before and after pictures of previous work done, so you make an informed decision.
For a more personal approach to how does a nose job work, it’s best to speak to a professional. Please contact us for an appointment: (02) 9158 6375.
References
Rhinoplasty
https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/rhinoplasty/about/pac-20384532
Cosmetic Surgery for the Nose
https://www.webmd.com/beauty/cosmetic-procedures-nose-job-rhinoplasty
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