What is rhinoplasty or nose job? Everything you need to know

If you’re thinking about getting a nose job, you’ve come to the right place. Here we’ll explain the basics of this process, so you can take a more informed decision. It’s important to consider that you should always consult with your doctor if it’s right for you. 

So, what is rhinoplasty? A rhinoplasty, commonly called a nose job, is a procedure done on the nose to improve its shape or its function. It can make the nose larger or smaller, change the angle of the nose in relation to the upper lip, adjust the type of the nose or correct unwanted defects. 

How does the procedure work?

The first step to have a rhinoplasty is to consult with your doctor and plan it thoroughly. Your doctor will consider your facial features, the skin on your nose and what you would like to change. Once the planning has been done, your procedure will be scheduled. 

The process can change the bone and cartilage of your nose, or even the two of them, so you can have an improved nose in shape and function.

A nose job is an outpatient procedure. This means that there is no overnight stay, so you can go and rest comfortably right after it. Additionally, during the intervention your nose will be numbed, so you can be relaxed and unable to feel the pain. 

After the intervention comes the recovery period. For the first three days after the process, you can expect swelling and some bruises around the eyes, although it can last up to two weeks. For the first week after the procedure, you will probably wear a nasal splint. 

Reasons for getting a nose job

A rhinoplasty can be done for two reasons: for cosmetic reasons to improve its shape or to improve its function.  These two reasons include repairing deformities from an injury, correcting a birth defect or improving some breathing difficulties.

You should always keep in mind that there is no such thing as a perfect nose. This process can enhance your facial features and emphasize your natural beauty. Talking to your doctor will help you make sure you have realistic expectations about the process.

A nose job or rhinoplasty is most helpful for those who:

• Are not satisfied with the physical appearance of their nose
• Are having problems with breathing or chronic congestion due to a problem with their nasal structure
• Have large bulbous nasal tips
• Have drooping, hooked, or upturned nasal tips
• Have excessively large, wide, or upturned nostrils
• Have experienced traumatic injury affecting the nose
• Have asymmetrical noses
• Have a deviated septum

How to prepare

There are four main factors that you need to discuss with your doctor when determining if the nose job is a right fit for you. These four are your medical history, a physical exam, photographs and your expectations.

It is very important that you talk to your doctor about your medical history, including a history of nasal obstruction, surgeries and if you’re taking any medications. If you have a bleeding disorder, you may not be a candidate for a rhinoplasty. 

Your doctor will perform a complete physical examination, which includes laboratory tests and blood tests. Additionally, your facial features and the inside and outside of your nose will also be examined by him. 

This exam will help your doctor determine how your physical features will affect the results, which changes should be made and which impact the nose job will have on your breathing. 

Someone from your doctor’s office will take photographs of your nose from different angles, which will be used to study the best procedure.

All of this will help you express your expectations and motivations to your doctor. Although, you may feel a bit self-conscious when discussing your appearance to your doctor, it’s important that you are completely open about your desires and goals. 

Finally, prepare your home for when you arrive after the intervention to recover comfortably and, ideally, arrange for someone to drive you home after it.

What to expect after the procedure

After you’ve had the nose job process done, you will go to the recovery process. Once you’re at home resting be sure to take the following in mind:

• Some temporary swelling and discoloration can occur around your nose
• Your nose may be congested because of the swelling, so make sure to keep your head higher than your chest to reduce the swelling and bleeding. 
• You will have splints placed inside your nose and outside for protection and support. They are usually in place for about a week after the procedure. 
• You will need to take some precautions like avoiding strenuous activities, taking baths instead of showers, not blowing your nose, avoiding facial expressions, not resting glasses on your nose and using sunscreen on and around it. 

Keep in mind that the more informed you are, the better expectations and results you’ll get. Consequently, you’ll feel better during the intervention and during the recovery. 

Always remember to consult with your doctor if you’re a candidate to have a rhinoplasty and keep in mind that there are no perfect faces, but a nose job can help you improve its shape and function to increase your wellbeing.