Over the past 5 years, cosmetic surgical procedures have been on the rise like never before. If you’ve been considering plastic surgery for yourself, then you already know that it can help you feel more confident and comfortable in your body.
This is especially true when it comes to getting cosmetic surgery on the most visible part of your body: your face. One of the most common facial surgeries is a rhinoplasty or a nose job. Continue reading to learn what happens during this surgical procedure so you’re prepared if you choose to schedule one for yourself.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
In short, rhinoplasty is a cosmetic surgery procedure that changes the shape of a nose. More specifically, this can include any of the following:
- Reshaping the tip of the nose
- Changing nostril size
- Straightening the bridge of the nose
- Correcting the nose shape after an injury
- Removing a bump on the nose
- Widening breathing passages
When Is It Necessary?
Patients can schedule a nose job either for medical or cosmetic reasons. For example, if you’re having trouble breathing through your nose, rhinoplasty can help open up your nostrils for easier breathing. On the other hand, you may want to schedule a nose job simply because you don’t like the shape or size of your nose.
Whatever your reason, discuss your thoughts with the best rhinoplasty surgeon in your area to learn more about the pros and cons of the procedure based on your specific needs and wants.
What Happens During the Procedure?
In most cases, rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, so you won’t have to stay overnight for recovery. Depending on the specifics of your procedure, you’ll either get local or general anesthesia before the operation.
With local anesthesia, you’ll be sedated, but not fully asleep. Your nose will be numb during the operation, so you shouldn’t feel any pain or discomfort. With general anesthesia, you’ll be fully asleep throughout the whole procedure. Once you receive your anesthesia, your surgeon will cut across the base of the nose, in the nostrils, or both. They may also reshape your inner nose bone and cartilage.
The specifics of the operation largely depend on the outcome you want from the procedure.
What Can You Expect During Recovery?
After the operation, you’ll have to wear a splint on your nose for about a week. You should also keep your head elevated when possible immediately after the procedure. In the days following your surgery, you may notice swelling and bruising around your nose and eyes, which is normal.
For the six months after your surgery, you may continue to notice slight swelling around your nose while it continues to heal.
Understanding Surgical Procedures Like Rhinoplasty
After reading through this brief guide, we hope you have a better understanding of what you can expect if you plan to get a nose job. Working with the right doctor for surgical procedures like this can truly help you feel like the best version of yourself.
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