5 things you should know before getting a nose job
Consultant maxillofacial and facial plastic surgeon Afshin Yousefpour from Thornbury Hospital shares advice on what you need to know when considering rhinoplasty
Other people are born with congenital nasal deformities, such as a cleft lip or palate, a deviated septum, or other structural issues. Rhinoplasty can help correct these birth defects.
For some people, dissatisfaction with the appearance of their nose can significantly impact their self-esteem and confidence. Rhinoplasty can help boost your self-image and overall confidence, vastly improving your quality of life in turn.
Before having a nose job, it's important to prepare yourself for surgery.
It's important that your surgeon has a broad and extensive experience in facial cosmetic and rhinoplasty surgery in order to get what you want from surgery.
1. Ask to see before and after photos of previous operations
According to Harvard Health, one of the most common reasons for having a nose job is to create asymmetry across your nose. Many people have a nose job because they don't like the way their nose looks, so it's important that your surgeon has a broad and extensive experience in facial cosmetic and rhinoplasty surgery in order to get what you want from surgery. Don’t be afraid of asking your surgeon about his or her experience in this area. You can ask them as many questions as you like about the topic, and they'll be happily provide their expertise and knowledge.
You should look at before and after photos of patients they’ve previously operated on to help give you an idea of the results, and to help you form an opinion about your surgeon’s surgical skills.
Our consultants at Circle Health Group are highly skilled in performing facial cosmetic and rhinoplasty surgery and can offer their expert knowledge about having a nose job.
2. Ask your surgeon plenty of questions
When considering having a nose job, you need to make sure you’re finding the most appropriate surgeon to meet your needs.
Before any surgical procedure, ask specific questions, such as whether the surgery is a suitable option for you, the surgical technique they plan on using, and the satisfaction rate of previous patients. As mentioned above, your surgeon will be very happy to answer these questions for you and provide as much advice as possible.
This will help give you peace of mind that both procedure and the doctor performing it are right for you.
Did you know that rhinoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic procedures carried out in the UK?
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3. You’ll need at least two weeks off work
Rhinoplasty is one of the most complicated forms of facial cosmetic surgery. The NHS states that your recovery may take up to two weeks depending on the extent of the surgery. You’ll need to take this period of time off work.
It’s important not to blow your nose as this can adversely affect the results of the surgery.
To help counter some of these effects, your surgeon will prescribe you painkillers and anti-sickness medication. You will be asked to rest and sleep with the head elevated. Your nasal splint will be removed after a week or two and you should be able to socialise around one week after surgery.
The final results of your surgery may not be visible for up to a year, sometimes longer.
4. It can take up to a year before you see the full results
During the operation your surgeon may place a splint over your nose for support, and to provide stability to your new shape. Although you’ll be swollen, you should be able to see changes in the shape of your nose immediately once your splint is removed – around 1-2 weeks after surgery.
You may have persistent, minor swelling for several months after surgery. The final results of your surgery may not be visible for up to a year, sometimes longer. During this time, the swelling will gradually disappear and the skin and soft tissues around the nose will contract and adapt to the reshaped framework of your nose.
5. Have realistic expectations around your results
You shouldn’t be afraid to discuss your wishes with your surgeon. They’ll tell you whether your desire is realistic and achievable. In my opinion, the most desirable results are achieved when the function is preserved and your nose has a natural look.
Cosmetic rhinoplasty is about improving the appearance of your existing nose. It’s important to remember that you shouldn’t expect “perfection”, or expect to have the nose of someone else.
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If you're concerned about symptoms you're experiencing or require further information on this subject, talk to a GP or see an expert consultant at your local Circle Hospital.