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Will I still look like "me" after rhinoplasty surgery?
Many of our patients report that, upon return to work and routine daily activities, friends and acquaintances make the following remarks: "Gee you look great. Did you change your hairstyle?" or "Have you been on vacation?" Retaining your uniqueness is the sign of a successful rhinoplasty procedure. Although the change may be significant to you, it's not uncommon that friends and family don't really notice the specific changes. |
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Yes, but I want to dramatically change the appearance of my nose. Can I do that?
This is an excellent question because it leads to evaluating realistic expectations. This question can only be answered on an individual basis. A sign of a good facial plastic surgeon is one who can tell the difference between realistic and unrealistic expectations and one who will be truthful about meeting each patient's desires. Our biggest referral source is from satisfied patients - ones who have had realistic expectations and were satisfied with results. |
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Is rhinoplasty surgery painful?
After any surgical cosmetic procedure, some discomfort can be expected. All patients are provided with prescriptions for pain medication. Patients sometimes use the prescription medication two to three days after their rhinoplasty surgery and then switch to acetaminophen. It is uncommon for patients to report unmanageable pain after their rhinoplasty surgery. Numbness behind the two front teeth is common and temporary. |
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When can I go back to work after rhinoplasty surgery?
Most patients take one week off work but others prefer two weeks. The cast on the nose comes off one week postoperatively. At that time, any residual bruising and swelling can be camouflaged with make-up. Patients who are more concerned with privacy prefer two weeks off work after their rhinoplasty surgery. |
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How long does the rhinoplasty surgery take?
The length of rhinoplasty surgery depends on several factors including the complexity of each person's nose. Many patients who have previously had a rhinoplasty are referred to the us for Plastic Surgery for revision rhinoplasty surgery. Revision rhinoplasty is more difficult than primary rhinoplasty and can take a little longer because of corrections that need to be made as a result of the initial plastic surgery. |
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When can I "work out?"
Aerobic activities should be avoided for two weeks following rhinoplasty surgery and heavy weight lifting or more strenuous workouts should be avoided for three weeks postoperatively. It's important to avoid bending, lifting or straining during the postoperative rhinoplasty period as these activities can increase swelling and delay healing. |
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Can I drive myself home after rhinoplasty surgery?
NO. Because of the effects of anesthesia, patients are not able to drive themselves home after the rhinoplasty surgery. If you are from out of town and transportation is an issue, you may want to consider the accommodations closer to our center. |
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How old do I have to be to have a rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty should be performed only after nasal development is complete - for most patients this means after puberty. In general, plastic surgeons do not like to perform cosmetic rhinoplasty until a patient is about 16. Along with being more physically developed, a patient under 16 may change their concept of beauty as they mature. A patient needs to be mature enough to participate fully in the decision-making process as well as comprehend fully the procedure itself. |
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Why is a revision (secondary) rhinoplasty so much more difficult than a first-time (primary) rhinoplasty?
Many reasons. First, after any cosmetic surgery, scar formation creates a thick, tough layer that is more difficult to work with than original tissue. Second, the original location of (anatomical) landmarks have been altered. Third, cartilage needed to reshape the nose, which was available for use during a primary rhinoplasty, is no longer available to the surgeon performing revision rhinoplasty. Cartilage grafts borrowed from the ear or other parts of the body (as previously discussed) require a second incision. If artificial material is used in revision rhinoplasty, experience selecting and working with artificial material requires advanced skill level. Fourth, the overall skill level required to perform a successful revision rhinoplasty is greater. Revision rhinoplasty has humbled even the most experienced facial plastic surgeons. |
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I really want to do this but I'm nervous. What if I get stressed?
It's ok to be nervous. (Frankly, we would be nervous if you were taking this step lightly!) One of the best ways to deal with nervousness is to see what other patients have gone through. Before and After Rhinoplasty Photos present results and experiences of patients who have been in the same position you are right now. Your Consultation gives you an idea of questions that other patients have asked as part of their decision-making process. |
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