It's nothing new to humankind if you hate or have problems with
your nose. Rhinoplasty is a plastic surgery procedure that can be
done for medical reasons, breathing problems, birth defects or
injury, or it may simply be done for aesthetic cosmetic purposes.
Types of Rhinoplasty
There are two types of rhinoplasty procedures. One is known as
"open" rhinoplasty, where the surgeon has more control over the
patients nose because they are able to see into it. They make a
minor incision in the space between the nostrils, enabling them
to lift that portion of nasal skin off the nose for better
visability of the cartilage and bone. This procedure will leave a
scar, however for a skilled and experienced surgeon, the scar
will not be visible from viewing distances.
The other type is "closed" rhinoplasty, where incisions are made
on the inside of the nose, thus concealing any evidence of a nose
job. However, in some cases your surgeon may not be able to get
to the target areas in order to perform the surgery
sufficiently.
There may be advantages and disadvantages of either procedure for
your particular case, so be sure to ask your surgeon whether he
or she performs "open" or "closed" nose jobs and find out which
one is best for your situation.
Finding The Right Surgeon:
Though nose resculpting has been around for many decades, it does
require incredible ability by the surgeon. Your doctor should
have the proper certification and experience necessary to perform
the given procedure.
Interview at least two or three plastic surgeons, he or she
should be board certified, have a minimum of 5 years experience
(ask how many rhinoplasties he or she performs a year). During
the consultation, how well does the doctor listen to your ideas,
ask to see examples of their work and what can or can't they do
to help you.
Likewise, if you are going to have general anesthesia, be sure
your anesthesiologist is certified by the American Board of
Anesthesiology. When all is said and done, make sure that you can
be rapidly admitted to a nearby quality hospital in the event of
unforeseen complications.
Rhinoplasty Fees:
Surgeons fee: $3,500
Anesthesiologist: $700
Facility fee: $800
Average Total Cost: $5,000
Unless the procedure is performed for medical reasons, eg. birth
defect, accident, you will not be covered by insurance. If your
insurer says that it is covered, be sure to get pre-authorization
from them before the operation.
Ask about payment plans through your surgeons office or find a
company that specializes in medical loans.
Complications:
If you are careful and selective about whom you choose for your
surgeon, anesthesiologist, and of course operating facility,
there is only a less than 5% chance of any complications.
A possible risk you will need to consider and accept before
having cosmetic nose surgery is revision rhinoplasty. First,
because nose surgery is a difficult procedure and secondly,
following the surgery your nose can change in ways which cannot
be predicted beforehand. And then wait at least one year,
otherwise the revision surgery will be less likely to accomplish
your desired result.
Recovery:
A splint is applied (removed in a week) to the top of the nose to
keep it in place while healing and gauze packing is inserted for
a couple of days to protect the septum from moving and minimizing
bleeding.
Anti-inflammatory medication and a painkiller are prescribed for
swelling and discomfort, as well as an antibiotic to prevent
infection. Apply ice, elevate the head, avoid blowing your nose
and wearing eye glasses.
Finally, few people ever regret getting a nose job. It has the
potential to create a new appearance and lend new confidence.
Just be careful.