subject: The Truth About Rhinoplasty [print this page] Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure to reshape or repair the nose due to injury, deformity or defect. There are many things to consider before making your decision to have rhinoplasty.
Do Your Research
Before you commit to a surgeon to operate, research the surgeon's name and reputation both online and with friends or people in the industry. Talk to nurses and doctors about your choices, and ask to see photos of the surgeon's work.
Can you Afford it?
Cosmetic surgery is often not included in many health care policies or on Medicare. You will most likely have to pay for it all out of your own pocket and these kinds of procedures can be extremely expensive.
Be wary of places that are offering any kind of financial aid, as this may not be reliable and may cost more than a regular personal loan at a bank.
Make sure the surgeon offers you a cooling off period after attending your first consultation, to give you time think and change your mind.
Medical Issues
You will need to be assessed for rhinoplasty and your doctor or surgeon will look at any drugs you are currently taking, and any supplements or vitamins you might be on as these could interact with surgery.
You will have to think about the level of anaesthetic you want, as rhinoplasty can performed under general or local anaesthetic.
The Pain Factor
You should go into rhinoplasty understanding that for a lot of re-shaping, the surgeon might possibly be chiselling, breaking and realigning or trimming back cartilage. This kind of invasive surgery will result in a painful recovery period.
Swelling will be a factor that you have to consider and there will a lot of bruising and swelling around your eyes mainly. You won't be able to truly get the full results of your rhinoplasty until many months after surgery.
Some side affects of rhinoplasty are pain, swelling, bruising, temporary numbness, sudden nosebleeds and infections.
Your Expectations
From the beginning you must be sure to express exactly what you want done to your nose. You must find photos and examples of the look you want and then the surgeon will be able to tell you if this is possible with your existing bone structure.
You should feel sure that the surgeon understands what you want to achieve and don't be shy to ask as many questions as you need to.
Understand that reshaping your nose will not change your life. It will not necessarily resolve your personal issues with the way you look and may be quite a challenge to get used to the look of your new nose.
However, if you feel that rhinoplasty will improve your appearance and therefore your self confidence, then make sure you go ahead fully informed about all the factors involved in this serious, invasive surgery.
