Before and After Nose Surgery: A Detailed Review

The journey of nose surgery, more formally known as rhinoplasty, begins long before the operation and continues for a considerable time after. While the surgery itself is a vital part of the process, the prior preparation and subsequent healing stages play equally important roles. In this article, we explore ‘before and after’ nose surgery with a specific focus on non surgical rhinoplasty.

Before Surgery

Preparation starts with a thorough consultation with your surgeon. Here, realistic expectations about what rhinoplasty can and cannot achieve for your appearance are set. It’s then followed by physical examinations and medical history checks to ascertain candidacy for the procedure.

Pre-operative instructions may include quitting smoking, avoiding certain medications, and arranging for someone to drive you home post-surgery. Patients are often advised to gather supplies like ice packs to reduce post-operative swelling and comfortable clothing that doesn’t need to be pulled over the head.

The operation day

Rhinoplasty is usually conducted under general anesthesia or sedation. Depending upon the complexity, it may take 1-3 hours. There are two types of surgical procedures—open and closed rhinoplasty. The former involves an incision across the narrow strip of tissue separating the nostrils, while in the latter, all incisions are concealed inside the nose.

Non Surgical Rhinoplasty

For those who fear going under the knife, non surgical rhinoplasty presents a viable alternative. It’s a nasal augmentation procedure that employs injectable fillers to alter the shape and contour of the nose. As it doesn’t involve any invasive surgery, recovery time is typically less. The result, however, is not permanent and requires maintenance every 6-12 months.

After Surgery

Immediately after the operation, expect to encounter bruising, swelling, and a nasal pack to control bleeding. Pain medications and antibiotics are commonly prescribed, and most patients can return to sedentary work within a week. It’s necessary to avoid strenuous activities initially for a safe recovery.

Post-operative care requires patience, as healing is gradual. The final results may take up to a year or more to materializes fully. Though it can be tempting, it’s important to resist the urge to judge the results too early. Regular follow-ups with your surgeon will ensure your healing process is on the right track.

Concluding Thoughts

Rhinoplasty, whether surgical or non-surgical, is a significant decision and requires an individual to be well-informed and prepared. Achieving the desired result involves patience, adherence to pre-and post-operative care, realistic expectations, and a skilled surgeon. While nose surgery can significantly enhance one’s appearance, its ultimate goal should be to build confidence and boost self-esteem.