Pre – Rhinoplasty Questions and Answers

Every year, half a million people seek consultation for enhancement of the appearance of their nose.  

In 2012, rhinoplasty is the top surgical procedure performed most often on both women and men under age 35, according to American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (AFFPRS) 2012 Statistics Survey.

There are various reasons why individuals opt for this procedure. Some are unhappy with the nose with which they were born or the way aging has changed their nose. For others, an injury may have distorted the nose and in many, there is the additional goal of improving breathing. As the nose occupies a central position on the face, the size and shape of the nose has a great impact on an individual’s appearance.

If you are interested in getting rhinoplasty or nose job, here are the answers to frequently asked questions before getting the surgery.

1. What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty or a nose job is a cosmetic surgery that reshapes the nose by removing, reshaping, or rearranging the nasal bone and cartilage. This can change the shape of the tip or bridge, increase its size or reduce it, narrow the nostril, improve the angle and remove a bump.

2. What is involved in a rhinoplasty surgery?

The surgical techniques used in nose surgery may vary, and this would depend on the surgeon’s preference and the patient’s request. However, rhinoplasty generally involves the separation of the skin that covers the nose from its framework. 

There are two approaches in doing this, the open or closed method. An “open” procedure will require an external incision and provides a better view of the internal structures. A closed approach may be limiting because incisions have to be done inside, but it provides better aesthetic outcome because scars are well hidden. 

3. What are the benefits of rhinoplasty?

A nose job can have aesthetic and functional benefits.

The most common reason for nose surgery is because the patient is not happy with how her nose looks. The aesthetic benefits of rhinoplasty include the removal of bumps and crookedness in the nose, improved shape, and proportional size and facial symmetry. Its functional benefits include improvement in breathing and the correction of birth defects.

In addition to its aesthetic and functional benefits, a nose job can also help a person feel better and improve one’s self-esteem. An improved size and shape can make a self-conscious individual feel more confident about their appearance.

4. What are the risks associated with rhinoplasty surgery?

Just like any other surgery, rhinoplasty also carries the same risks like bleeding, infection, and untoward reactions to medications or anesthesia. Scarring can also become a problem, whether if it happens on the outside or underside of the nose. In some rare occasions, a hematoma may also occur, and surgical intervention may have to be done to remove it. 

There are also times when septal perforation may occur. This is when a small hole in the septum is created resulting to a whistling sound whenever the person speaks or sings.

Related: Post- Rhinoplasty Questions and Answers

5. What type of anesthesia may be used for rhinoplasty?

This would depend on the preference of the surgeon or the patient. But this would be largely dependent on what the surgeon finds out after evaluation. Based on the surgeon’s assessment rhinoplasty can performed under local or general anesthesia, this could run for as long as 2-3 hours.

6. What are the qualifications of a good rhinoplasty surgeon?

A reliable nose surgeon should have the proper training and board certification in nose surgery.

The best choice is a facial plastic surgeon. This type of doctor has been trained fully in ENT, so she or he knows how to make the nose breathe well. Facial plastic surgeons have had additional or fellowship training to focus on the aesthetic and reconstructive aspects of the face and neck. They can address all parts of the nose to achieve the best result possible.

Rhinoplasty is one of the most technically challenging procedures, and should be performed by a surgeon who has experience with rhinoplasty.

Further, he should have the ample experience in performing this procedure as evidenced by the extent of his client base. You can check the quality of his work through before and after photos which most surgeons are willing to show you today. It is not enough that a doctor is a surgeon; he should be a nose surgeon. This means that he is well-versed with the intricacies of the nasal structure and the necessary procedures that can help improve aesthetic and structural problems.

A nose surgeon with a low revision rate is also a definite plus. This means that he has a low failure rate which saves you money and the possibility of a corrective procedure.

7. What type of facility will I be operated in?

A nose job can be performed in a hospital operating room or a clinic setting. What is important is that the surgical area is well contained so that the possibility of infections caused by environmental factors is significantly reduced.

8. What are the protocols used in case of unexpected surgical complications?

A cosmetic surgeon should have their own protocol for emergency situations. Usual problems that arise include reactions to anesthesia or severe bleeding. Fortunately this can be remedied with the use of emergency medications.

9. Is it possible that I can achieve the nose that I want?

Yes, it is possible to get your ideal nose with proper communication with your surgeon. It helps if you bring a photo with you so that he can get a good idea of what you really want. But this will also be subject to the surgeon’s assessment on your unique case. Together you will discuss this closely so that you are both on the same page. 

For any other questions, please make an enquiry by calling (02) 9280 3632. We offer patient financing and free consultation to our valued patients.