A well-planned nose job can take just a few hours to complete but full healing can take up to a year. The key to a successful rhinoplasty procedure is discussing it with your plastic surgeon so you are sure about your desired result and clear about the length of time it will take. In this post, we will consider the question ‘how long does nose surgery take’, and give you some tips o what to expect from the procedure.
What Does A Nose Job Do?
A nose job or rhinoplasty procedure is the process of changing the size and/or shape of the nose using surgery. It can be performed for cosmetic or medical reasons. Most rhinoplasties are performed inside the nose, which means there are few visible cuts to the outside. Sometimes, the tissue between your nostrils needs to be cut.
The width, profile, and size of your nose can be adjusted in a rhinoplasty procedure. A skilled plastic surgeon can also perform the procedure to change the tip of your nose, your nasal symmetry, and the shape or size of your nostrils.
So How Long Does Nose Surgery Take?
Each patient is unique and has different expectations for their surgery. The most accurate way to understand how long your rhinoplasty will take is to have an assessment done. The length of time it will take will depend on what you are having done.
On average, most patients will only spend around 1.5 to 3 hours in surgery, however, the healing process is incremental and it can take up to 12 months for your nose to settle into its new shape and profile. If you are having a major reconstruction, complex surgery, or revisional surgery, it is possible that your surgical procedure could take longer.
What To Expect From A Nose Job
Your first stage is to visit an experienced and qualified plastic surgeon for a discussion of what can be achieved with a nose job. While you may think a certain celebrity’s nose will look just right on your face, your surgeon needs to consider your facial symmetry and achieve balance with the proportions of your facial features.
Your surgeon has to work within the limits of your nasal bones and cartilage so he or she will tell you what can be achieved with your bone structure.
It’s always a good idea to get a second opinion before moving forward with a plastic surgeon. Each surgeon has a different approach and different areas of specialty and committing to a new look is a major decision. It’s never a good idea to rush into it or without seeking a second (or even a third) opinion.
Ask to see pictures of your surgeon’s previous work. Before and after pictures will give you a good idea of what can be achieved in one surgical procedure. Ask your surgeon if you can have a look at computer-generated imaging to show you how your nose shape and size will change after the surgery.
Once you have been evaluated and given your full medical history, your surgeon will present you with a treatment plan and cost estimate.
How Long Does It Take To Recover From A Nose Job?
Your healing depends on how well you rest and how well you look after yourself during the recovery stage. Staying well hydrated, getting enough sleep, and eating nutritious meals can accelerate your recovery. Make sure you follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions and care for your wounds.
Most patients find they are ready to return to work within a week or two after their surgery. Swelling should subside noticeably after the end of the first week but you may still have some residual bruising for the first two to three weeks. As each week and month passes by, the swelling should improve, but it can take up to 12 months for it to heal completely. You will probably want to avoid work and social environments for a couple of weeks, or at least until your bruising can be camouflaged with makeup.
Your surgeon will advise you to avoid vigorous activity and heavy lifting for the first two weeks after your procedure. You should also avoid wearing glasses for a few months so that the bridge of your nose can heal and recover properly.
Even though your nose will feel blocked or stuffy, you will be advised to avoid blowing or rubbing it for a few weeks. Staying upright when you are resting and sleeping can help to reduce swelling and discomfort.
If you have been given medication for pain and swelling, make sure you take it as directed.
To find out more about ‘how long does nose surgery take’, it’s always best to get a professional opinion and assessment. Please contact us for a confidential appointment: (02) 9158 6375.
REFERENCES
Septorhinoplasty
https://www.healthdirect.gov.au/surgery/septorhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/nose-rhinoplasty
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