What to Expect from Rhinoplasty

By Jerome Edelstein, MD

Rhinoplasty surgery is not a procedure to take lightly and it is not one that is simple and basic. In fact, there are different types of rhinoplasty that can be performed and different ways it can be done as well. Each surgery is specific to the patient that is undergoing the procedure and will be tailored to meet their needs. It is important that you speak with your surgeon BEFORE the surgery so you know what to expect from the procedure itself.

How Is It Done?

Rhinoplasty can be done a couple of different ways and the way it is performed depends on what you need. For example, your surgeon may find it best to do the surgery from within your nose (closed) or he or she may find it better to add an incision between your two nostrils to increase the precision (open).

What Can I Expect During the Procedure?

When you undergo a rhinoplasty procedure, you can expect your surgeon to use an anesthetic on you to block out any pain and keep you relaxed. The type of anesthesia chosen will depend on the type of procedure you are having performed and your surgeon.

Generally, the most commonly used types include a local anesthetic with sedation through an IV and general anesthesia in which you are placed into a deep sleep for the procedure.

Both types of anaesthetic are performed as outpatient procedures allowing you to go home the same day..

What Can I Expect After the Procedure?

Once the procedure is over, you may want to look at your nose and touch it right away, but refrain from doing that. You need to heal, just as with any other procedure.

Many patients do not know what to expect once the surgery is completed, so it is important that you speak with your surgeon to get a good idea of what to expect.

Once the procedure is done, you will need to lie with your head elevated to relieve pressure, swelling, and minimize bleeding. Your nose may be sore and this is completely normal. Generally speaking, rhinoplasty is not an extremely painful procedure. By week two most patients are experience minimal or no pain.

You will be required to wear a gauze drip pad under your nose to absorb mucus and blood. You will also need to change the dressing often and your surgeon will explain how to do that before you are sent home.

Lastly, you will need to limit the activities that you do for a several weeks following the procedure. For example, you want to avoid moving your nose too much  with chewing or exercise and you do not want to engage in any activities that involve a chance of your nose being hit.

If you are interested in rhinoplasty, it is important that you choose a Royal College of Surgeons of Canada certified and experienced Plastic surgeon. The team at Edelstein Cosmetic is ready to talk to you about your upcoming procedure and educate you on what to expect before, during, and after your surgery.