Let’s start with some frequently asked questions, to help you get better acquainted with what a rhinoplasty is, and to determine if it would be a good fit for you!
What is a rhinoplasty?
A rhinoplasty, or more commonly known as a nose job, is a cosmetic surgical procedure that is used for correcting and reconstructing the form of the nose. While it can restore the functions of the nose, it’s generally the procedure known for aesthetic enhancement. There are two types of surgical rhinoplasty, open and closed, and the non-surgical rhinoplasty option, which is really more of a procedure in which filler is added to the nose.
Open rhinoplasty? Closed? What’s the difference?
An open rhinoplasty is where a small incision is made in the little bit of skin that divides your nostrils known as the columella. This tiny incision gives way for the surgeon to lift the nasal skin off of the tip of the nose, providing access to the nasal tip cartilages.
A closed rhinoplasty is an approach taken by plastic surgeons, in which surgical incisions are made inside the nostril, rather than on the columella. While the open rhinoplasty scar is barely visible, a closed rhinoplasty eliminates all possibility of any external scarring.
What’s the recovery like for rhinoplasty?
Like any surgery, rhinoplasty varies from patient to patient. Some basic similarities do apply to most patients though.
- When will I be able to go home? Usually, the patient can leave the day of surgery.
- Can I resume my daily activities when I get home? Most patients will be able to do simple things, such as watch television or answer e-mails. Nothing too strenuous should be attempted though, and by the following day, the patient will feel much better.
- How will I look? Am I going to be swollen and bruised? Typically, most rhinoplasty patients will leave the office with a cast on their nose that will remain in place for approximately one week. The bruising should subside within a 2-week period, and swelling can persist up to 3 months. However, by the 2nd or 3rd week, about 75% of the nasal swelling will have subsided.
How painful is a nose job?
Again, this varies patient to patient, but the most frequent response from patients is that their rhinoplasty wasn’t as painful as expected. Most patients report a little discomfort, but that’s usually due to a splint being placed on the nose for a one-week period. Cold compresses or ice packs can help to reduce any swelling, bruising or pain but if the ice feels uncomfortable, don’t use it as often.
