Rhinoplasty Questions for the Doctor

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that is done to the nose to improve its general appearance. The operation has two techniques, both of which involve incisions to the nose. The surgeon is the one who will recommend which of the two is most serviceable for the patient, but the patient can also request whichever he or she prefers, though this does not mean that the doctor will compromise the safety of the patient in order to facilitate this request. Before actually going for the nose job, it is best to get to know the surgeon and the operation to be better able to deal with them better.

The Surgeon

The surgeon who will perform the rhinoplasty should be able to answer any questions asked by the patient. The patient is entitled to ask questions which are professionally connected to the doctor to be comfortable working with him. One of the concerns of the patient is the qualifications of the medical professionals who will perform the operation as well as the qualifications of those who will assist in the undertaking of the task. The number of successful nose jobs that he or she has done may be an indicator of the doctor's level of performance on the operating table.

The Procedure

There are so many questions that the patient should ask his or her doctor about rhinoplasty that it may be better to actually ask for a step-by-step account of what will occur during the operation and afterwards. From there, it will be easy to ask him about the risks and possible complications that accompany the procedure. The patient should also be ready to give a medical background to assist the surgeon in assessing his or her suitability as a candidate for a nose job. It is also good to ask which of the two techniques (open or closed) is more suitable for each particular patient since there are advantages and disadvantages to both. Asking about the type of anesthesia used as well as who will apply the anesthesia should also be a priority.

The recovery period is another concern for the patient. Some of the questions that should be asked regarding this time are whether packing is necessary, when to take medications for swelling, inflammation, pain and infections and when the next check up will be. The degree of pain should also be discussed as well as the physical appearance of the person immediately after the operation. Some rhinoplasty patients are shocked with how bad their outward appearance is and should be better prepared to deal with it.