For those thinking about a rhinoplasty, researching the post-operating recovery process is essential. Knowing exactly what recovery entails reduces the odds of being dissatisfied with the final outcome and reduces the odds for needing a rhinoplasty revision. Viewing before and after pictures of other rhinoplasty patients is an excellent way for someone to decide exactly what they want and what to expect after surgery is completed.
The Best Candidates
Rhinoplasty is great for men and women alike, it can enhance your appearance along with your self-confidence without changing your whole appearance. However, there are many aspects to the rhinoplasty procedure that one should know about and speak to their surgeon about before their procedure. The process of a rhinoplasty and your personal expectations are the main concerns. While the process is a simple one, it also comes with some pain and pressure that should be discussed with your surgeon. The best candidates for rhinoplasty, according to a Kansas City practice, are those who are looking for “improvement, not perfection”. Patients should be physically healthy, psychologically stable and realistic in your expectations. Age can also be a consideration as many surgeons prefer not to operate on teenagers until they’ve completed their growth spurt around 14-15 for girls and a little older for boys. Rhinoplasty is also used for reconstructive purposes such as correcting birth defects or breathing problems.
Post-Operation Pain
Recovering from facial plastic surgery is never easy. There is always some amount of discomfort and pain as well as large amounts of swelling and bruising. Sometimes patients also report experiencing a “stuffed up” sensation during the first few post-operative days. The facial plastic surgeon will prescribe antibiotics and pain medication. This is important as it is prudent to get the prescriptions filled prior to surgery so you will feel the minimum amount of pain post-operation. Patients should take their antibiotics diligently at the right times of day and for the full length of time instructed. Without doing so, infections can occur that will drastically affect your recovery.
Nasal Packing
Patients may or may not have nasal packing put in following a nose job. If put into place, nasal packing is stuffed inside the nose in order to keep swelling and bleeding to a minimum. Many rhinoplasty patients say that nasal packing feels like their whole head is being smothered or stuffed up. The intense sucking sensation can also create a forceful pressure which can be difficult to cope with. Many plastic surgeons neutralize these problems by inserting a tube inside the nasal packing to help the patient to breathe easier. In most cases, the nasal packing is then taken out during the first follow-up visit that is scheduled a few days after surgery.
Bruising and Swelling
Applying ice to the affected area(s) often relieves pressure and swelling. A bag of frozen peas is very helpful because it decreases swelling and eases general discomfort because it can effortlessly mold to facial contours. It is also suggested that patients keep their head and shoulders elevated during sleep for the week or so immediately following surgery; this helps in relieving any bruising or swelling and reduces the chances of post-operative bleeding. Your facial plastic surgeon will takes the cast off anywhere from five to seven days following the surgery. Once the cast has been removed, swelling usually moves down the facial area. Most patients also wind up with both eyes blacked, so they must prepare themselves for their first postoperative look in a mirror. The bruising generally decreases or disappears after ten days or so.
Rhinoplasty is Worth the Work
Rhinoplasty is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures. The Kansas City practice states that along with using rhinoplasty for reconstructive purposes, rhinoplasty can also reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip. It is also very important to choose the right surgeon for you. Choose a surgeon that will understand your needs and expectations but who will also answer all of your questions to ensure you have the highest understanding of the procedure, process, and post-op. Although there are many qualified surgeons, the most important qualification is to ensure they are board certified. Rhinoplasty can be a very satisfying procedure with the right surgeon, a healthy patient and realistic expectations. Although rhinoplasty recovery can be challenging, the timeless advice that “anything worth having is worth working for” is definitely applicable. Most rhinoplasty success cases enjoy the lifelong confidence of being able to go through life with their “best face” forward.