All types of cosmetic procedure are serious surgeries and for that reason, most patients will have quite a few different questions before they will even consider going under the knife. This is especially true of rhinoplasty (nose job). This article provides general information about some of the questions we are commonly asked.
How much will rhinoplasty cost?
The actual surgery cost will depend on a number of factors – most importantly, the extent of the work you need done will have an impact on cost. Some people only need very minor work and their procedure can cost less than someone who needs several things done.
When you consult with your surgeon, be sure to find out how much you will need to spend. Note that for any procedure there are costs for the surgery, the anaesthesia and the hospital facility. You should be able to get a good idea in advance, and that number shouldn’t change much.
Are there any risks involved with rhinoplasty?
While nose jobs are done as a routine procedure, it is still surgery. Any type of surgery will involve some amount of risk. With rhinoplasty, these risks include: infection, reactions to anesthesia, bruising, and bleeding. All of these are fairly uncommon though. The most important issue relates to the need for revision. The risk of needing revision rhinoplasty is reported to be around 5%. A revision procedure can be needed for many factors such as nostril asymmetry through to residual dorsal hump reduction.
What will my new nose look like?
This is a question you need to discuss thoroughly with your surgeon. It is very important that you have realistic expectations. Otherwise, you may be disappointed in the results. Morphed pictures will give you an idea about possible rhinoplasty outcomes. Remember to communicate clearly what you want from the procedure, and then listen carefully to the surgeon – so that you can find out what to actually expect from your results.
What will the procedure be like?
The surgery will be done under general anesthesia so you don’t have to worry about being awake or feeling anything while the work is done. There are two main types of rhinoplasty: open and closed.
- Open nose jobs involve making a small incision to the skin between your nostrils. The incision is on the outside of the nose.
- Closed nose jobs only include incisions inside of the nostrils and not on the outside.
Studies show a patient satisfaction rate of more than 80 – 90 % for all rhinoplasty techniques.
The surgery will last around three hours and the exact time will depend on the extent of the work that needs to be done.
What will the recovery be like?
In most cases, you will be allowed to go home the next day. For about a week or two after the surgery, you will have stitches and you will need to wear a cast or splint on your nose. Bruising and swelling may occur around your eyes and nose. The bruising generally subsides over a couple of weeks. Your surgeon will go over when you can resume activities. Most people find they are able to go back to work within a fortnight of having a rhinoplasty. This will depend on the degree of swelling of the nose and when you feel as though you are comfortable to return. You will likely need to avoid overly strenuous activities for around four weeks time.
Whenever you are considering any type of cosmetic procedures, it is a good idea to know what to expect and what you will go through before and after the surgery. This is certainly true of rhinoplasty. The more questions you can get answered, the more you will be prepared for the surgery itself. This will often help to quell any concerns that you may have.
If you have questions about rhinoplasty, contact your local doctor, who will arrange for you to see a nose surgeon.
