Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that changes the shape of a patient’s nose. It can be used to correct breathing problems and sinus issues caused by a congenital disability or trauma.
Rhinoplasty can also be performed for cosmetic reasons on patients who want an improved profile. Still, it’s essential to know that not everyone who wants a rhinoplasty procedure does it for purely cosmetic reasons.
According to reports, the global rhinoplasty market size was valued at $6.2 billion in 2020.
Many patients choose to undergo rhinoplasty as an outpatient procedure. However, there are significant differences between what your doctor may recommend and how you should care for rhinoplasty stitches.
The following questions can help ensure that you make an informed decision.
What Is a Realistic Goal for Your Nose?
A doctor cannot guarantee a specific outcome and should be open and honest about the goal for your nose. You want to make sure you both have similar goals to ensure a good result.
Will You Look Like Yourself After This?
It is difficult to answer, depending on what you hope to achieve from the procedure. However, it’s essential that the doctor understands your desires and that you understand the possibilities.
Will You Be Able to Breathe Better After This?
The doctor shouldn’t guarantee any improvement, but if they can offer it, you should know the specifics about how breathing will change after your surgery.
What Is Recovery Like? How Long Until You Can Resume Normal Activities?
The recovery process varies from person to person and largely depends on the type of surgery. It can also depend on how extensive your procedure is, so the doctor must give you an honest assessment of this.
How Much Will This Cost?
It is a fundamental question and one that your doctor shouldn’t skirt around. They should offer a flat rate and an itemized list of costs, including any additional fees or ancillary treatments.
The cost of your surgery should be one factor in the decision-making process, but it shouldn’t be the only factor. Make sure you’re working with a doctor who can provide excellent results and consider both your desires and your budget when coming up with a treatment plan.
Will You Need More Than One Surgery?
The doctor may determine that another procedure is necessary to achieve the desired results. If this happens, ask them about their experience and how many times they’ve performed that particular procedure.
What Kind of Anesthesia Will Be Used For this Procedure?
There are multiple options for anesthesia, so you need to know what your doctor plans on using.
How Will You Know the Results Are Final? Can They Be Reversed?
If you want a cosmetic procedure, you should know that not everyone is happy with their results once they settle in. You need to know if there are any solutions if that happens.
What Are the Risks of This Surgery?
Once again, there’s no such thing as a “no risk” surgery, and your doctor should be able to detail any possible complications or issues that could arise during or after the procedure.
These may include:
Swelling: This is expected and will typically go down after a few weeks.
Decrease in blood flow: There’s a chance that the skin on your nose could lose some of its average circulation. If this happens, the color will change and may be more challenging to correct.
Infection: The doctor should take steps to prevent this from happening, but it’s still possible.
Healing problems: Depending on how extensive your surgery is, it may take some time before you are fully healed. It is essential to follow the instructions to care for rhinoplasty stitches for faster recovery.
What Are the Risks If You Don’t Get This Surgery?
If there’s a problem with your nose, you need to know the risks if you choose not to get surgery.
When Will You See the Final Results?
It’s easy to be impatient after surgery and want immediate results, but understand that everyone heals at a different rate and could take up to six weeks until you’re fully healed.
How Long Will This Surgery Last?
Will my nose always look the same as after this surgery, or might I need more in the future?
Cosmetic procedures should be a lifelong investment, not something you do once and forget about. Make sure you understand what will happen as far as your results and whether or not you’ll need additional procedures in the future.
Your doctor should tell you how to prepare before your surgery and what restrictions you may have, such as what you can eat and when you can take a shower.