How Rhinoplasty Can Change Your Life

What Is Rhinoplasty?

The word sounds intimidating. Harvard Health Publishing explains, it means the altering or re-contouring the shape of your nose. It can also help to improve breathing problems that stem from a deviated septum. Many people are interested in eliminating bumps, straightening out their nose, or even narrowing their nose.

We have all heard of celebrities getting cosmetic surgery or even the occasional friend or acquaintance who was instructed to undergo the procedure for better breathing. Cosmetic surgery is something almost all people have at least thought about doing at one time or another. So many of us think of what having a new, adequately shaped nose would look like on our face. Could it help? Could it possibly change your life?

First Impressions

Since the nose is the centerpiece of the face, it stands to reason it's one of the first features other people will notice. Having a nose that is smooth and a size that is proportional to other facial features can make you feel comfortable, and give you confidence. It's like wearing your favorite outfit every day or having a great hair day all the time.

The idea of reshaping your nose to improve your appearance to feel more confident about your look is not as taboo as it once was. People are much more accepting of others, making these types of alterations to their face. Why not indulge in something that will make you feel so much better, and give you the confidence you've long desired?

Your Best Breathing

Many people are told they have a deviated septum by their doctors. According to MedlinePlus, correcting breathing problems is one of many possible reasons to complete this procedure. This problem is quite common but can be corrected with cosmetic surgery. By undergoing this procedure, you will experience much more comfortable breathing. You can also ask for sinus repair. Many patients report that this results in having fewer sinus infections.

Where To Begin

First, you'll have to seek out a doctor. You will want to schedule an appointment, a consultation. This initial visit is where you will discuss what you are looking to accomplish, and the doctor will be able to show you what they can do to help. Based on information from the Mayo Clinic, the surgeon will then establish a plan for you.

Some photos will be taken of your nose. Doctors typically have computer software that allows them to take the pictures of your nose and show you exactly how they plan to alter your nose during surgery.

Your doctor will also talk to you about what your expectations will be. The American Psychological Association cautions the importance of patients having a realistic outlook. Consider the input given to you by your doctor. They will likely have a good understanding of what will look best on your face based on its shape and how it will compare to other features on your face. These pre-surgery discussions will be highly beneficial in investigating what you would like and how that will look on you.

If you have any questions, be sure to write them down so you don’t forget to ask. In some instances, your insurance may pay in full or partially, so be sure to investigate your options.

Are There Risks?

Yes, everything has the potential for risk. You will want to discuss with your doctor all the details and any specific concerns you may have. There are some side-effects that are more common than others. While this is not an exhaustive list, this will give you an idea of some common risks:

●        infection

●        bleeding

●        numbness around your nose

●        Pain

●        discoloration

What To Expect After Surgery

According to Princeton rhinoplasty expert, Dr. Mark Glasgold, patients will have tape, and a metal splint placed on the bridge of the nose. Gauze is also taped beneath the nostrils. Generally, in the first 48 hours, patients will have the most drainage and will be expected to change out a drip pad and replace gauze from time to time. At around day 6 or 7, you will be called in for a postoperative visit. The majority of patients can typically get back to a healthy life after ten days.

Making the Choice

Cosmetic surgery can change your life. You may be looking to alter the appearance of your nose for aesthetics or perhaps you suffer from some breathing issues due to a deviated septum. Having a nose that is shaped and proportioned to suit your face can finally give you the confidence you need to be more social, and even more assertive. Having an initial consultation is all you will need to get started and discover if this is right for you.

Want to learn more? Check out this plastic surgery guide for more information on trends in plastic surgery to help you make the best decision for you.