The Patient’s Guide to Rhinoplasty Surgery

The “nose job” is one of the most-requested cosmetic surgeries—and for good reason. Due to the nose’s placement in the center of the face, it’s one of the first things people notice about you—and changing it can be one of an effective way to enhance your appearance or correct an issue from an accident. We’re constantly asked “how to prepare for nose surgery”

In fact, nose job requests have become even more common as of late, with the sudden celebrity of Meghan Markle prompting numerous requests for more “royal” features. But what should prospective patients know about getting a nose job? How to prepare for nose surgery, which is technically called rhinoplasty? And, what should they anticipate with the rhinoplasty surgery recovery process?

Watch as Dr. Stephan Finical, a member of the Rhinoplasty Society and renowned for his skill in achieving natural, symmetrical nose surgery results, answers all of the above questions on this segment of Good Day Charlotte, Fox 46.

Should I Get A Nose Job (Rhinoplasty Surgery)?

First and foremost, it’s important to have the proper expectations. Simply having a Meghan Markle nose job is not going to make you look exactly like Meghan Markle; with that said, a skilled cosmetic surgeon can help you soften your features and achieve a new look that’s right for you.

One way you can communicate your wishes to the plastic surgeon is to bring some photographs, displaying the kind of nose you want—whether it’s Meghan Markle or some other celebrity. This is a great start in how to prepare for a nose surgery. Your cosmetic surgeon can then get a sense of what you’re looking to change, and provide you with a realistic assessment of what he or she can do for you.

It’s also wise to ask your surgeon to take some pictures. Different cosmetic surgeons will use different methodologies—whether 3-D modeling or simply some “Photoshopped” images—to give you a preview of what your new face will look like. Not only does this help ensure that you and your plastic surgeon are on the same page, but it can also help quell some of the anxieties you have about the process.

Be sure you talk with your plastic surgeon about any lifestyle changes you need to make before the nose job. For example, it’s generally recommended that you stop smoking at least two weeks before the surgery, as nicotine will impede the healing process. You may also be advised to discontinue the use of certain medications, like aspirin and ibuprofen.

It can’t be emphasized enough that communication with your plastic surgeon is critical. The results of your nose job depend very much on your existing nose structure and shape, and an experienced plastic surgeon can provide you with an honest sense of what your surgery results might entail.

A final note about pre-surgery preparations: You’ll absolutely need someone to drive you home after surgery, as you won’t be able to drive yourself. Make sure you plan to make this arrangement!

What Is Rhinoplasty Surgery Recovery Like?

You’ll definitely be excited to start living life with your new nose—but remember that rhinoplasty is a surgery, and as such there is always going to be a recovery time. How to prepare for nose surgery includes the after effects of the surgery too!

You should plan on taking a week off from school or work; this is usually enough time for the initial swelling to subside, as well as any lingering pain. Indeed, you can anticipate a little bit of discomfort over the first few days, though your surgeon can offer you some pain management options. For most patients, something as simple as Tylenol is perfectly effective in minimizing pain, especially after the first couple of days.

Swelling is a natural result of a rhinoplasty procedure, but one thing you can do to minimize it is to sleep with your head elevated at night. The worst of the swelling will probably subside within the first one to two weeks, though you may experience some minor swelling for several weeks after the procedure; this is all perfectly normal.

It’s also fairly common to experience some bruising around the nose and the eyes, though this usually goes away after one to two weeks; if necessary, a little bit of makeup can conceal it without any problem.

For a few days after the rhinoplasty, you’ll need to breathe through your mouth, as swelling in the nose will make nasal breathing difficult. To prepare for this, make sure you have plenty of lip balm and cool beverages on hand.

For three or four weeks following your surgery, there may be some limitations on your activity; you’ll want to consult with your cosmetic surgeon about specifics. It’s usually best to avoid hot and spicy foods during this recovery period, and we also recommend that you avoid blowing your nose.

Your First Post-Operative Visit

You’ll meet with your surgeon a few days after the surgery, and in this meeting, all the dressings and sutures will be removed. Your nose will likely still be swollen, and there may even be some minor bruising, but even so, you’ll get a pretty good look at what your new nose looks like. Of course, this is also a great opportunity to ask your surgeon any pressing follow-up questions about the recovery period.

Following this visit, and especially after the initial three weeks of your recovery, you will mostly feel “back to normal,” but remember that the nose is incredibly sensitive, and the healing process can’t be rushed; in some cases, it can take a full year before you’re totally healed up. View our rhinoplasty before and after photos of real Charlotte Plastic Surgery patient’s results.

Where To Get Rhinoplasty Surgery?

As you start thinking about nose reduction surgery, it’s always pivotal to consult with a skilled and experienced plastic surgeon. Make sure you have the proper expectations, and that you know what you need to do to keep the recovery process safe and smooth.

Charlotte Plastic Surgery physicians consult with patients who are looking to have nose jobs completed, and we’re always upfront and honest about the results you can anticipate. We can also talk you through the process to ensure you’re a good candidate, and also help alleviate any concerns you have about your rhinoplasty plastic surgery.

You can get a new look—whether it’s the Meghan Markle or something else altogether—and a good starting point is a consultation at Charlotte Plastic Surgery. Contact us today to schedule a nose job consultation with one of our six highly-skilled physicians!