Do you want to improve the appearance of your nose? Here are the top things you need to know before undergoing rhinoplasty!
Do you need a nose job? Nose surgery involves altering the shape and dimensions of a patient's nose to improve their appearance. You should prepare yourself for rhinoplasty surgery before you step into the operating room. Here are the top things you need to need to know before going under the knife!
Schedule a consultation with a nose surgeon. Discuss the changes you want to make with the doctor and bring photos showing noses you admire. Make sure your nose surgeon is fully informed. Tell him if you have had an injury to your nose or a previous nose job,
even if it occurred a long time ago. Inform him if you have allergies, smoke, or take any medications.
Depending on your medical history and age, you may be required to undergo certain medical tests before your operation such as blood work and chest x-rays. These tests are performed to alert the nose surgeon about any potential health risks that may prevent you from having surgery.
Consider the timing of your nose operation. For example, if you are planning to show off your new profile at a party, graduation, or wedding, you may want to plan your operation several months in advance. It usually takes up to six months or a year for the swelling to subside completely.
Go grocery shopping and purchase snack items to munch on as you heal. Purchase frozen meals so that you can pop them in the microwave when you get hungry. Purchase soft foods such as soup, pudding, and applesauce.
Purchase any items your surgeon has recommended such as dressings, gauze pads, antibacterial soap, ice packs, facial cleansers, hydrogen peroxide, vitamins, and a thermometer. Stocking up on books, magazines, and movies will make your recovery a more pleasant experience.
Once you return home, plan on staying in a recliner or bed with your head elevated. Take several days to recuperate before trying to resume your routine activities. Common side effects experienced during rhinoplasty recovery includes swelling, bruising, discomfort, and tenderness. Any discomfort can be managed with painkillers.
Plan to wear loose, comfortable clothing on the day of your operation. Choose a blouse, zip-up sweater, or button-down shirt that will be easy to take off once your operation is completed. Your hair should be clean and dry. Make sure you don’t wear jewelry, contact lenses, and makeup on the day of your operation.
You will need someone to drive you home on the day of your operation. You should also plan to have someone come by to help you in the days following your operation. If you're having general anesthesia, make sure you arrive at the hospital two hours prior to surgery. If you’re having local anesthesia, you should arrive one hour prior to surgery.
Your nose surgeon will prescribe certain medications. You should pick them up before your operation. Medications commonly prescribed for rhinoplasty patients include anti-anxiety medication, sleeping pills, antibiotics, and painkillers. Oral antibiotics are prescribed to ward off infection. Be sure to take your medications as instructed.
Do you want to recover in a supportive environment? If you prefer professional care, you can go to an aftercare facility after your operation. Aftercare facilities are staffed with people who are familiar with post-operative care and they can provide transportation for you. These tips will make your rhinoplasty recovery a stress-free experience!
