FAQs About Rhinoplasty/Nasal Contouring
When is the optimal time for my surgery (nose job)?
Unlike other cosmetic procedures, rhinoplasty is often performed on teenagers that are fully grown, woman between 13-16 and men between 16 -18 years of age. Of course the procedure is also beneficial for those that have waited longer. By balancing the nose early in life, the mind incorporates the new appearance as part of your body image. You not only look better, but you feel much more confident. Of course, being in the best shape, mentally and physically, is an optimal condition that is always recommended.
Are there any other treatments that will improve my appearance and results? Definitely- Good skin care and the proper skin care products will get your skin in the best shape before surgery and maintain it afterwards. We have superb skin care products and experienced aestheticians who will evaluate your skin and recommend the proper care for you. Often teenagers have acne that can be cleared up prior to the rhinoplasty.
Where is the surgery performed? Private Surgical Center or Bridgeport Hospital
What will I need before surgery? You may be asked to obtain a medical evaluation by your family physician to ensure that you are in the best possible health.
Type of Anesthesia: You are gently put to sleep so that you will be comfortable throughout the operation. Once asleep, I will place a local anesthetic under the skin so that you will feel no discomfort and the amount of medicine you receive during the operation will be minimized. By putting you to sleep your heart rate, blood pressure and amount of oxygen will be optimized.
Will smoking effect my healing? Yes- Each cigarette lasts 12 hours on the blood vessels of the body and smoke is toxic. Smoking causes the skin to heal poorly and the complications associated with smoking are tremendous. Even second hand smoke during the weeks before and after surgery will adversely affect your results. Stopping is a must before and after any operation.
How long will the surgery take? My objective is to give you my best effort. That means not rushing through your surgery. I take my time and like to be meticulous. There are many things that must be done before the operation can even start. Washing and preparing the area, making sure that your body is well cushioned and your legs are placed in special boots to compress them during the surgery. Likewise, at the end of surgery I need to clean your face and apply a special dressing. But rest assured that being asleep for hours is generally very, safe so the 2 ½-3 hours you sleep will be just fine. I will also wait in recovery after the surgery to be certain that all is going well before I leave.
What can I expect? The nose has to be balanced to match the features of your face. Usually, the top of the nose is lowered, the width is brought in, and the tip is sculpted to give it a better shape.
Will I bruise and swell after surgery? With any surgery there is a degree of swelling and bruising. The areas next to the nose will also bruise. Although not everyone gets lower lid bruising, do not be surprised if it happens. Usually, the discoloration starts to fade to green, then yellow and is gone between 1 and 2 weeks .
Where are the scars? There is a scar on the bottom of the nose. Occasionally, I need to bring in the nostril which places a scar in the grooves of where the nose meets the cheeks.
How long will I wear a bandage? I will put a splint on top of the nose which will be in place for 6-8 days. There will also be a small pad under your nose for the first 2-3 days. You will change this pad as necessary over this time period.
When can I shower? Usually you can shower the day after surgery; however, it is best to not let the water hit your face or the splint will loosen. Baths are not a good idea for 3 weeks after surgery in order to keep your swelling down.
Will my nose hurt? Generally, there is minimal discomfort. You will note stuffiness but there should be very mild or no discomfort.
When can I resume activities? It is best to relax for the first 7-10 days. Bruising is variable and usually located in and around the nose. Seeing your best friends after 10 days is fine, but I would wait at least 2 weeks before meeting new acquaintances. After 2 weeks you will look presentable. After 3 weeks, you will look much better than before surgery, but you still have another 3-4 weeks for 50% of the swelling to subside. It is not a good idea to exercise or increase your heart rate for 3 weeks from the time of surgery. This will help to diminish your swelling and improve the rate at which you heal.
What can I do to expedite my healing? We will give you a set of guidelines that inform you of what medicines to stay away from and which vitamins to take. Not allowing anyone to smoke in your presence for weeks, using ice and cool compresses often, resting, eating a low salt diet and having a positive attitude go a long way to assisting your recovery .
When will I see you again? Depending upon the combination of surgeries, you will re-visit the office within 4-8 days. There will be multiple visits, 2-4 which are included in your care, to evaluate your progress and support your healing needs.
Are there any additional fees to what was quoted? If the surgery takes a bit longer, as there is never a rush, you may owe a bit more for the operating room and anesthesia. However, if future surgery or procedures are necessary then there are additional fees for anesthesia, the operating room and the surgeon.
Rhinoplasty Brochure
