There are several important issues you should talk about with your plastic surgeon if you’re thinking about a rhinoplasty. You want to make sure you know everything there is to know. The more educated you feel, the more comfortable you will be with the procedure.
Here are a few issues you should bring up before the day of your surgery.
Expectations and What’s Realistic
If you’ve always dreamed about getting a rhinoplasty, chances are you have pretty high expectations. But, your expectations and what’s realistic may be on two different planets.
Some looks just can’t be done on everyone. Your plastic surgeon will look at your facial features and bone structure to let you know if your expectations are realistic. If they are, great, you’re one step closer to getting a rhinoplasty. If they’re not, you’ll be told what can be done and other suggestions of things you may want to consider.
Current Health
A rhinoplasty will not be done on a patient who is deemed unhealthy. It is crucial to be completely honest about your health and other medications you’re taking. This will allow your plastic surgeon to look at your health and determine if a rhinoplasty is right for you.
As with any type of surgery, there are always risks. Certain medical conditions can increase those risks and make you decide whether a rhinoplasty is right for you.
Open or Closed Approach
Many people don’t realize that there are two ways of doing a rhinoplasty, an open approach, and a closed approach.
The closed approach is done through the nose with no external incisions. The open approach is done by making an incision underneath the nose. This elevates all the skin. The surgeon goes through the nasal structures and uses many graphs through the tip of the nose and the body. As you can gather from the description, the closed approach is more complicated.
Discuss this with your surgeon so you know what approach is going to be used and that you understand the entire procedure.
Functional Concerns
While many people get a rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons, some people need a rhinoplasty for functional reasons so they can breathe better. Since some people turn to rhinoplasty to improve breathing, it’s important to find a surgeon who is not only trained in facial cosmetic procedures but is also educated about the nasal anatomy.
Surgery Time and Anesthesia
Some rhinoplasties can be completed in an hour, while others can take up to four hours. It depends on the concerns that are going to be addressed. Once the details are hammered out, your surgeon can give you a better idea of how long your surgery will take. Remember, things can always come up during the procedure that can make the rhinoplasty take longer than expected.
A rhinoplasty is usually done under general anesthesia. Your surgeon will go over the different types so you can choose what works for you.
Recovery Time
A rhinoplasty is a surgery, so you’re going to need time to recover. How much time exactly varies from patient to patient. Typically, patients can go back to work within 3-5 days of their surgery. The small splint that’s placed over the nose for protection is removed about a week after the rhinoplasty. There may be some bruising around the eyes depending on the surgery. This disappears within 10 days usually.
During your recovery time, you’ll be limited when it comes to certain activities. Your surgeon will let you know what you can and can’t do. It’s important to follow those recommendations because you want to heal properly for the best results.
Cost
No one likes to talk about money, but when you’re getting plastic surgery, you really should. Most insurances won’t cover a rhinoplasty when it’s done for cosmetic reasons. If it’s being done for functional purposes, you may be able to get some coverage.
It’s important to know exactly what the procedure will cost and whether that includes any post-op appointments. Once you have the cost and determine whether your insurance will cover any portion, you can determine how you will pay for it.
If you would like more information on a rhinoplasty you’re considering, contact Dr. Keith Ladner. Dr. Ladner has plenty of experience and can talk to you about any issues you are concerned about regarding the procedure. Call the office today at (303) 253-7686 to schedule your appointment.
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