Rhinoplasty Process
Although the rhinoplasty process involves a relatively painless and easy operation, it is still beneficial for those undergoing this surgery to be informed about the process. Therefore, in this article, we have outlined the rhinoplasty process for you.
First of all, during the pre-operative process, the patient meets with the doctor, and the reasons for wanting the rhinoplasty, their expectations from the surgery, and the realism of those expectations are assessed. On the other hand, before learning about the patient’s expectations, a general nose examination is conducted, identifying any structures causing breathing problems, assessing the patient’s suitability for the surgery, and detecting any additional medical conditions. After the general medical evaluation, the expected nose is assessed. It should be noted that this assessment process may vary from doctor to doctor.
Some doctors prefer to suggest various nose shapes to patients using computer programs based on their photographs. However, at Renate, we instead ask our patients to collect photos of noses they like. We find that evaluating the different parts of the nose through these photos and determining the ideal nose shape for our patient is a more efficient method (our experience shows this method is more effective in terms of patient satisfaction). If the photos brought by the patient are incompatible with their facial features, we explain this incompatibility to them and determine an ideal nose shape suitable for them.
When entering the surgical process, some medical evaluations are necessary. For instance, since rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia, the patient’s basic tests are always carried out by us during the pre-operative process. After these tests and a general anesthesia examination are completed, the patient is admitted to surgery. During the pre-operative process, patients are expected to avoid taking blood thinners, consuming large amounts of herbal teas, and using medications that promote bleeding. If they are taking any dietary supplements, these are also expected to be stopped. In the pre-operative process, treatments such as creams are initiated to reduce bruising and swelling. From an anesthesia perspective, patients are expected to fast for 8 hours before surgery. So, what can patients expect after surgery?
One Week After Surgery
During this time, your nose will be swollen, and your doctor will remove the splint. The splint is a device that helps the nose maintain its shape after surgery.
Depending on the type of changes made to your nose, visible differences will occur. For example, if your nose was narrowed, it may be difficult to notice due to the swelling.
Additionally, bruising may appear on your body, which is normal during this time. Pain can vary from mild to severe. However, 50% of patients do not experience bruising, and only 10% of bruises are severe.
You might be worried that your nose does not look the way you planned for a week, but remember that this is completely normal. Keep in mind that you just had a major surgery, so swelling and other unwanted appearances are entirely expected.
4-6 Weeks After Surgery
Approximately four to six weeks after surgery, your doctor will see you again. By this time, you should notice significant changes in your nose. You will begin to see much less swelling and overall improvement, and you will start to recognize your new, enhanced face!
If your skin is thick or this is a repeated surgery, some swelling may still be visible. But this is normal. Remember that the surgical scars have not yet fully healed.
3-4 Months After Surgery
By this time, your nose will have taken more of its final shape. In many cases, your nose will have improved so much that you’ll even be ready for photos. You’ll probably feel great with your new nose and newfound confidence!
6 Months to 1-2 Years
By this time, you can see the complete and final results of your rhinoplasty. You’ll have gotten used to your new nose by now and will likely feel fantastic!