Is rhinoplasty worth it? A question worth mulling over because you often won’t get a straight answer when you ask people. It’s difficult to answer this on behalf of others because any plastic surgery procedure is an extremely personal decision. However, researching rhinoplasty and learning what to expect can offer you much-needed guidance to reach an answer to that question.
What happens during rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a delicate operation that deals with a fragile structure — the nose. The process involves surgical techniques to reshape or repair the nose structure to address cosmetic or functional concerns. Because the nose is the central and most protruding feature of our faces, altering it can change the way we look.
A nose job can get quite complex, hence the need for a well-experienced and board-certified surgeon for successful results.
Breaking Down the Rhinoplasty Process?
Before surgery, your surgeon will provide preparation instructions — such as medications to stop or start, stocking up on soft foods, and arranging for transportation after the procedure.
On the day of your rhinoplasty, here’s what typically happens:
Step 1: Anesthesia
Most rhinoplasty procedures are performed under general anesthesia, ensuring you’re asleep and comfortable throughout.
Step 2: Incisions
The surgeon makes incisions to access the underlying bone and cartilage.
- Open rhinoplasty: Incisions are made across the small strip of tissue between the nostrils (columella).
- Closed rhinoplasty: Incisions are hidden inside the nostrils for no external scarring.
Step 3: Reshaping the Nose
The surgeon carefully refines the bone and cartilage structure to achieve your desired contour. This step can involve reducing, augmenting, or straightening features, and in some cases, correcting a deviated septum for improved breathing.
Step 4: Closing the Incisions
Once the reshaping is complete, nasal skin and tissue are redraped, and incisions are closed with precision sutures.
Step 5: Recovery Begins
Rhinoplasty is typically an outpatient procedure, so most patients return home the same day to rest and begin the healing process.
A nose job can be complex, which is why choosing a board-certified and experienced facial plastic surgeon is crucial for achieving natural, balanced results.
Understanding the risks and side effects of rhinoplasty
A nose job is not without risk, like all surgeries. Understanding this can help you weigh the pros and cons of rhinoplasty and if it’s the ideal treatment for you.
Is rhinoplasty dangerous?
It’s understandable to be concerned with safety when it comes to invasive surgery, especially as complex as a nose job. However, the risks associated with rhinoplasty surgeries are small. Complications are also rare.
Is getting a nose job painful?
The procedure itself won’t be painful as you will be injected with anesthesia. During the recovery process, however, expect some pain and other rhinoplasty side effects such as:
- Swelling
- Bruising
- Congestion
- Numbness
These side effects will fade over time as your body recovers.
Manage your expectations
There’s no such thing as a perfect nose — that’s the first step to setting realistic rhinoplasty expectations. Your plastic surgeon will likely recommend altering your nose into a shape or size that best balances your facial features instead of emulating a nose you consider “perfect.”
As for expectations on when to see successful surgical results, it’s vital to understand that the healing process varies from person to person. Some patients may take a year before achieving their desired outcome, especially if they underwent surgery to correct nasal deformities or injuries. Learn what to expect from your nose job one month versus one year post-rhinoplasty.
Is rhinoplasty worth it? We think so — here’s why.
It’s worth noting that many who have undergone nose surgeries have shown long-term satisfaction. It’s because rhinoplasty is more than just getting a better nose — it’s about improving your quality of life. Achieving the nose you desire can do wonders for your self-esteem and confidence. In some cases, a nose job can even drastically improve one’s health, helping restore nasal function and solve breathing issues.
If you’ve had initial nasal surgery before and are unsatisfied, you may ask, “Is revision rhinoplasty worth it?” We think it is, especially if your previous surgery hindered your nasal function.
When performed with precision, rhinoplasty can refine your nose’s shape, correct asymmetries, and enhance the balance of your entire face, resulting in natural, harmonious results that boost self-esteem and comfort in daily life.
The bottom line
But, again, while we think rhinoplasty is worth it, deciding that is a must-have conversation with your plastic surgeon. With professional consultation, your doctor will better understand your needs and recommend the best option for your desired results.
If you’re considering a rhinoplasty in Los Angeles, Dr. Jacob Sedgh offers over two decades of expertise in both aesthetic and reconstructive nose surgery. Book a consultation today to discuss your goals and take the first step toward renewed confidence.
Posted on behalf of Sedgh Plastic Surgery