A nose job, also called a rhinoplasty, is a procedure for nose reshaping. It is a cosmetic surgery that alters the shape of the nose either for medical or aesthetic reasons.
Medically, some people have defects in their nose shape that hinder normal breathing and other respiratory functions. Rhinoplasty changes the shape of the nose to make these functions easier.
Aesthetically, some people are not satisfied with the shape of their nose and get it altered through surgery.
Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures globally, and according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, 213,000 people get a nose job each year.
Despite its simple nature and amazing results, here are a few things that you should know before you opt for a nose job.
- Cost of The Nose Job
A nose job or rhinoplasty isn’t extremely expensive, as many people perceive. A typical rhinoplasty can cost anywhere from $5000 to $10,000. If the procedure is complex or the revision tends to be difficult, it can cost you $15,000.
This cost varies from area to area and country to country. You can surf the internet, ask around in your peer group or directly talk to a plastic surgeon to see whether it fits in your budget or not. For example, if you live in Beverly Hills, you should hop on the internet and type, “nose job average cost in Beverly Hills.” You’ll immediately hit with relevant results.
- Realistic Expectations For The Results
You might have seen dozens of photos of successful nose jobs before deciding that you want one. You might have loved the results for different celebrities and how their ‘perfect noses’ has enhanced their features but remember, facial structure varies from person to person.
Your facial bone structure might be completely different from the person you saw in the picture online. Doctors cannot replicate the results for you as it might not compliment you as it complimented that celebrity or the person you saw in the photo.
They can try to bring symmetry to the face by altering your nose to suit your face the best. Hence, have realistic expectations and be willing to listen to the doctor’s advice as they can guide you the best about the procedure.
- Expect a little pain
You might experience bruising and swelling immediately after the surgery. It will last for a couple of weeks and will wear off slowly.
Don’t panic. It is all normal and part of the procedure. Proper rest and medication will help you deal with pain and swelling more easily. Moreover, you must keep your head elevated, eat low salt foods, and avoid strenuous activities for at least a month after the surgery.
Most patients rate this pain anywhere from 0 to 4 out of 10.
- Take Time Off Work
Rhinoplasty isn’t a simple procedure that you can get done in a lunch break at work and then come back after it and continue working. You are often heavily sedated and have anesthesia within your system.
The surgery’s extent and duration determine the recovery time for you. For most rhinoplasty procedures, it extends to about two weeks. You will have to take time off from work to undergo surgery.
Do not blow your nose or touch it excessively after the surgery. It will affect the surgery results and might even cause extreme pain. As soon as the nasal splint, the bandage covering the nose, is removed, you can continue your work but keep it low.
- Talk To Your Surgeon About All Your Reservations
Your surgeon or doctor should be open to listening to all your questions and queries. Talk to them about anything and everything that has you concerned. You can ask them about how they plan on going about the surgery, what medicines they will give you during recovery, and how many follow-ups you might need.
You can also ask your doctor to show you the before and after pictures of their past patients. It will give you an idea about how competent the doctor is and what expectations you should set.
This will help ease you regarding the surgery, and you’ll be more comfortable with the doctor performing the procedure.
Bottom Line
You should keep in mind many things when going for a cosmetic procedure. Especially a procedure like a nose job. For instance, many people are unaware that they’ll have to stop smoking at least 2 to 4 weeks before the procedure.
So, go to your doctor and ask them about everything you are concerned about. No one can guide you better than a practicing surgeon. Be patient with yourself and your recovery. It might take up to a year to see full results, so be ready for that.
