Rhinoplasty also known as “nose job” is the second most popular procedure performed today according to the American Society of Plastic Surgery, with breast augmentation taking the first place. It seems like everyone else is getting their nose “done” but you shouldn’t jump right in without first doing your research. Like any other cosmetic surgery choosing the right experienced board certified plastic surgeon is key to reaching your ideal aesthetic goals.
Many myths surrounding Rhinoplasty have come up over the years, but we are here to set them straight! Here are the top 7 myths about Rhinoplasty:
1. It’s “just” a nose job
Many people think that because the procedure in itself only takes about 1-2 hours it is a simple procedure but in fact it is one the most challenging operations in all of plastic surgery. Not only because of the surgical expertise that is required but the artistic elements that come into play. It is all about proportions; solely removing a dorsal hump can make your tip look droopy or creating an extremely small nose that is not proportionate to the size of your face may look unnatural.
2. I will get horrible bruising
I’m sure we have all seen those pictures of people with black eyes after their rhinoplasty. Some bruising is only natural but it all depends on the individual. Some people will need to have their nose fractured (broken) before surgery while others will only need a tip raise. Also some people just bruise more easily than others. The delicacy in which the doctor performs the surgery also plays a role into the amount of bruising patient’s experience.
3. It is extremely painful
You would think patients go through a lot of pain after rhinoplasty given the nature of the surgery but as a matter fact they don’t! Most patients experience discomfort rather than pain. After the anesthesia has subsided you may experience some degree of pain but this can be relieved through pain medicines. But most of the time patients say it feels similar to a cold because there nose is congested and they may have a sore throat due to the breathing tube placed down their throat during surgery.
4. I want my nose to look like that celebrities nose
One size fits all does not apply to noses. Just because it looks good on a person does not mean it will necessarily look good or natural on you. Having realistic expectations is instrumental to achieving a natural and beautiful nose.
5. Rhinoplasty will definitely be covered by my insurance
Most of the time insurance providers do not cover a rhinoplasty since they are mostly performed for cosmetic reasons. However, sometimes patients opt for a nose job because of functional issues such as problems breathing from a deviated septum, in which case insurance may cover the procedure.
6. Any plastic surgeon is qualified to perform a Rhinoplasty
Just like all plastic surgeons attended medical school and have their degrees, they all have a specialty. Meaning they perform certain types of surgeries more than others and are specialized in that type of procedure. Since rhinoplasty is such a complex procedure you should make sure your plastic surgeon has performed a large amount of plastic surgeries. This assures that they have a deep knowledge base on the aesthetic and functional components a Rhinoplasty requires.
7. Downtime is way too long
A major concern for many people with busy schedules is surgery downtime. Rhinoplasty downtime is actually quite short. People usually return to work after two weeks and some after just one week, because they don’t mind going to work with bandages. About 80% of the swelling is gone 21 days after surgery. Strenuous exercise can be resumed 3-4 weeks following your surgery and driving usually up to seven days after surgery.
