A Rhinoplasty Primer — What You Need to Know
With most new experiences, great preparation (or lack thereof) can often be the deciding factor as to whether or not you have a positive outcome. When it comes to considering a plastic surgery procedure like rhinoplasty, the same is certainly true. The more research and preparation you can do beforehand, the better your overall experience and results will likely be. Of course, a good first step can be to address any questions or concerns you have with your plastic surgeon during your initial consultation, but it can be helpful to know what to expect so that you know what questions to ask. Here are some of the things you should know if you’re considering rhinoplasty.
1. Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon Is Key
While working with an experienced board-certified plastic surgeon is crucial when considering any plastic surgery, it’s especially important to feel comfortable with your surgeon when something as delicate as your facial structure is involved. When choosing a plastic surgeon, make sure he or she is board-certified and has performed rhinoplasties in the past. It can also be a good idea to peruse his or her website and check out any before and after photos that may be available to give you a better idea of what type of results that surgeon can offer you. Keep in mind, though, that while photos can highlight the quality of his or her work, they can’t guarantee that your results will look exactly like those in the pictures, as everyone’s features are different.
2. Maintain Realistic Expectations for Results
Another key element of preparing for your rhinoplasty is to remember that there truly is no such thing as “perfect” when it comes to beauty. A rhinoplasty can absolutely correct any asymmetry or bumps and curves that may be making you self-conscious, but you should think of the procedure as a way to enhance the natural contours of your face. Clearly outlining your goals to your plastic surgeon during your consultation can help him or her give you the natural-looking results you’re looking for.
3. Recovery Time Is Important, So Don’t Rush
Because everyone heals differently, most plastic surgeons recommend that patients take off 7 to 10 days to recover following their rhinoplasty. Some bruising and swelling can be expected, so you don’t want to have to worry about getting to work or taking care of other responsibilities during this time. Make sure you can give your body adequate time to heal to ensure a safe recovery and optimal results. It’s also worth noting that even though your rhinoplasty may only seem to affect your face, you should still limit your physical activity for the first 3 to 4 weeks, as strenuous breathing could complicate your recovery. (WebMD, Mayo Clinic)
4. Be Patient with Your Results
Most importantly, keep in mind that your results won’t appear overnight. The initial bruising and swelling that come along with the healing process will gradually diminish over time. During the first 2 weeks, you should notice a significant decrease in swelling, but it could take between 12 and 15 months for the final stages of recovery to occur, revealing your final results. If you have concerns at any point during your recovery, make sure you consult your plastic surgeon, but rest assured that it’s completely normal for some swelling to still be present for the first 12 months. (Dr. Rod Rohrich via RealSelf)
Why Choose Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology for Your Rhinoplasty?
As mentioned earlier, choosing the right plastic surgeon for your rhinoplasty is the first big step to preparing for the procedure. At Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Pittsburgh, board-certified Dr. Brian Heil is dedicated to providing an educational and thorough explanation of what your rhinoplasty will entail, as well as answering any questions or concerns you might have. As a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, the Robert H. Ivy Society of Plastic Surgeons, the Ohio Valley Society of Plastic Surgeons, and the Pittsburgh Society of Plastic Surgeons, Dr. Heil has the experience and knowledge necessary to help you achieve the best possible results. If you’d like to schedule a consultation with Dr. Heil to discuss your rhinoplasty, contact Premier Plastic Surgery & Dermatology at 724-264-3608.
The Bottom Line
Planning your rhinoplasty can be an exciting and even anxious time, but thorough preparation can help to make your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible. Once you have a good idea of the type of results that you’d like to achieve, discussing your goals in detail with your board-certified plastic surgeon is the next step to getting your new look. Working closely and keeping an open line of communication with him or her can help to ensure that you’ll have a smooth, safe recovery and amazing results.
