Cosmetic Nose Surgery Overview
Cosmetic nose surgery, also known as rhinoplasty (or, more commonly, a nose job), is a procedure that reshapes and resculpts the nose for aesthetic reasons, as opposed to septoplasty, which is performed to correct flaws in a person's nasal septum. While septoplasty is usually covered by health insurance plans, rhinoplasty generally isn't covered unless it's being performed to correct a birth defect, injury, or a breathing problem. In any case, though, people who choose to have a nose job can do so at affordable rates.
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Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular procedures in the field of cosmetic surgery. It's performed on patients who want to resize or reshape their nose, to narrow the opening of their nostrils, and/or to adjust the angle between the upper lip and the nose.
In a rhinoplasty procedure, the patient can receive local anesthesia in and around the nose or, in more complex cases, a general anesthesia. After the patient has been anesthetized, the surgeon makes an incision, either inside the nostrils, which helps to hide any scars, or between the nostrils. Next, the surgeon shaves away or repositions bone and cartilage to shape the nose according to the patient's wishes. In some instances, grafts and implants are used to rebuild the nose and achieve the patient's chosen form. The surgeon then uses very fine sutures to close the incisions. Patients will have splints placed on the outside of their noses; some will also have soft splints or nasal packs applied to the interior of the nose to stabilize the septum.
A rhinoplasty procedure can last from one to four hours, depending on the size and complexity of the job. In most cases, the patient is released on the same day. Patients will generally experience headaches, minor bleeding, swelling, bruising around the eyes (often in the form of black eyes), nasal congestion, and soreness for up to two weeks. For some patients, some swelling and numbness in the tip of the nose can last for several months. Most rhinoplasty patients can return to work in one or two weeks but should avoid strenuous activities for up to three weeks. The results of a rhinoplasty procedure are permanent.
It's important to note that the cosmetic effects of a nose job, while often remarkable, can also cause unexpected reactions from the patient's friends and relatives. Family members in particular may react negatively if the patient's original nose shape was considered a family trait. The patient should remember his or her reasons for having the surgery, though; if those goals and expectations have been met, the patient can rightfully consider the surgery a success.
