Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty (also known as nose surgery) is one of the most common types of cosmetic plastic surgery. There are two main reasons why a person might choose to have a rhinoplasty done. First, some individuals use it for cosmetic reasons, to minimize the size, smooth out bumps, and make the nose more proportional to other features of the face. Second, they are used to improve a person’s health, opening up the air passageway to make breathing less difficult.

There is no minimum age requirement for this procedure; however, surgeons normally prefer that the nose is fully developed. On average, a girl’s nose is fully developed by age 13, and a boy’s nose is fully developed by age 15. Many teenagers will reconsider their desire to get plastic surgery as they mature.

Those considering having a rhinoplasty should consider their choice carefully before going ahead with the procedure. Although rare, there is always a chance that something will go wrong in the procedure, and people may end up even more dissatisfied with their appearance than they were before.

To find a good plastic surgeon in your area, start by doing an online search. Online searches allow for searches by practice and location, so finding one close to home is easy. Other suggested methods include personal references (by past patients, family, and friends who have had a rhinoplasty in the past), the yellow pages of the phone book, and plastic surgery consultants.

Once you have narrowed your search down to a few choices, you will want to have a consultation with them. A consultation is a good way to determine whether you feel comfortable with the surgeon, and that they’ve had adequate experience and success. At the consultation, you and the surgeon will discuss your problem areas and what you wish to have fixed. Your surgeon will also notify you of any potential risks. You will also be required to have a medical examination, and must provide any history of trauma to that particular area. Your surgeon may show you a computer image of what the potential outcome will look like; however, keep in mind that the image is not 100% accurate.

The rhinoplasty will take approximately an hour or two and you will normally be permitted to leave several hours after the procedure. Only in certain circumstances is it necessary to stay in a hospital.

There will be very little pain after the procedure; however, there will be some puffiness and swelling for the first couple of weeks. Many people are disappointed with the outcome at first due to the swelling and redness. Swelling will slowly diminish after several weeks, and you will gradually be able to resume regular activity.

For more information on rhinoplasties, contact a cosmetic plastic surgeon in your area.