subject: Rhinoplasty: Choices And Expectations From The Procedure [print this page] Rhinoplasty is probably one of the most well known types of cosmetic procedures that are performed today. Often referred to as a "nose job", this type of procedure can correct defects in the nose, improve a medical condition, or simply reshape it to make it look more attractive. When you are considering this procedure, there are a lot of things to think about; more than just what you want to have done.
Assessing your problem
The first thing that you want to do when you're seriously considering rhinoplasty is assess your particular situation. Do you want the procedure done to correct a chronic snoring problem? Though surgery may be a last resort for this type of problem, it's sometimes warranted.
Did an accident affect the look of your nose? Do you want just one thing about it corrected, such as a bump? Do you just hate the way it looks and want it reshaped? Write down your honest assessment about what you think you need. After that, it's time to compare notes with your doctor.
Discussing procedures with your surgeon
Don't be afraid to be candid and firm when you talk to your cosmetic surgeon about what kind of improvements you want to see after your rhinoplasty. At first it's almost like a negotiation process. You state what you want, the doctor states what can be done, and together you make the final decision on the procedure.
Of course, you'll be deferring to your doctor's expertise, but that doesn't mean that you don't have a say in what will happen. Good cosmetic surgeons appreciate a patient who is willing to discuss these things at length, so nobody goes in with any unrealistic expectations and ends up disappointed.
Taking care after surgery
Though rhinoplasty is concentrated on one small area of your face, it's still surgery, and there will be a recovery period. How long that recovery period will be will depend on how involved the procedure is. Your doctor will talk to you about what to expect in the short term and in the long term after surgery.
Your nose may not look the way you want it to for quite some time after surgery; there will most likely be swelling and bruising. Follow the doctor's orders about after the procedure and be sure to keep any post-surgical appointments to make sure that your nose is healing as it should.
Rhinoplasty can often make a big difference in the way you feel about yourself, especially if you've been self conscious for a long time about the way your nose looks. Choose a cosmetic surgeon that you can trust, and follow all pre and post-surgery instructions, and you should be happy with the long term results.
