5 Things to Know Before Having Rhinoplasty

Have you been thinking about reshaping your face with the help of cosmetic surgery? You’re not alone. Rhinoplasty or the classic “nose job” is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures available, because it can make a lasting impact on facial structure and balance. Some people are unhappy with the nose they were born with, while others are unhappy with the way aging has changed their nose’s shape. Injuries can also move the nose out of line, even restricting breathing. For all of these reasons, over half a million people visit cosmetic surgeons for a rhinoplasty consultation each year. Before you take the plunge, keep the following facts in mind.

A woman’s nose before and after rhinoplasty. (Photo: Alexander Rivkin/Wikimedia Commons)

1. There are three types of rhinoplasty.

The most common type of rhinoplasty is a reduction, which is used to make the nose smaller. However, some men and women are more interested in defining their nose’s bridge and tip, creating a new shape. This type of procedure is known as an augmentation rhinoplasty. Finally, in some cases a second procedure is necessary to refine the results of an earlier nose job. This third type of rhinoplasty is called a secondary or revision procedure.

2. Non-surgical options are available.

Not sure if you’re ready to go under the knife just yet? Although currently the only way to make the nose smaller is through surgery, there are non-surgical alternatives that can be explored to achieve the same results as augmentation or revision rhinoplasty. A non-surgical nose job can be used to reduce the appearance of a bump, smooth out dents, define the nose’s tip or improve overall symmetry. This is achieved over the course of multiple sessions and with the use of dermal fillers, which are injected into areas that you want to enhance.

3. It can take over a year to see the final results.

For traditional surgery, you can learn more about what to expect by visiting popular cosmetic surgeon’s websites like this one for Dr. Jeremy Hunt. Here you’ll learn what to expect both during and after the procedure. Bruising and swelling is a natural side effect to this procedure, with the majority of swelling diminishing after only a week or two. However, it takes up to 12-15 months to see the final residual swelling leave your nose’s tip. This means you won’t be able to see the end result for over a year, which can be frustrating if you’re not anticipating it.

4. Surgery may be “open” or “closed.”

Surgical techniques have improved over the past several decades of providing this surgery, with two main types of surgery available. Closed surgery involves all incisions being placed inside the nostril, which means that there’s no visible scarring. For more intricate jobs, open surgery may be used. This involves the placement of a small incision between the nostrils, giving the surgeon added precision and control.

5. Self-care is important after the surgery.

Although some degree of bruising and swelling is inevitable after a rhinoplasty, it can vary in severity. You can help speed up the healing process by applying cold compresses to your eyes, keeping the head elevated and trying homeopathic remedies like Arnica. It’s best not to exercise for at least three weeks after the surgery, because a boost in heart rate can increase residual swelling.

Rhinoplasty is a popular way to dramatically and permanently alter your silhouette. Whether you choose a surgical or non-surgical alternative, be sure to ask plenty of questions first to find out if this procedure is right for you.

Article by Rachel MacDonald, a Glasgow-based freelance writer who has worked as a copywriter for businesses from Lima to London. Her areas of expertise include travel, design and the arts.