Top Questions To Ask Your Facial plastic Surgeon Before Rhinoplasty
10 Questions You MUST ASK Your Plastic Surgeon Before Getting Rhinoplasty
Your nose is the most prominent feature of your face, right in the center.
If you are unhappy with the symmetry or appearance of your nose, rhinoplasty is an excellent way to balance your features and restore your confidence in your appearance.
Many patients are nervous about having rhinoplasty surgery.
These emotions are completely normal!
Any surgery can be a terrifying experience, but none more so than one in the middle of your face.
Before proceeding, you must consult with a doctor and obtain all pertinent information.
Ten Questions to Ask Before Getting Rhinoplasty
1. Is my surgeon certified by the American Board of Surgery?
Whatever procedure you are having, you want a team of experts in their field.
You’ll need to ask your doctor what qualifications they have that make them the best choice for you.
Are they American Board of Plastic Surgery certified?
Isn’t there an American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery?
Do they have any experience with rhinoplasties in their practice?
Finding a skilled surgeon who understands the anatomy of the nose is an excellent place to begin your rhinoplasty journey.
2. Can I view photographs of previous patients’ work?
Similar to any other type of plastic surgery, you should look at previous procedures performed by the doctor.
Looking at a before and after gallery can help you understand the doctor’s style and technique.
You will also be able to see if any previous patients had a “before” photo that was similar to your situation, so you will have a better understanding of the scope of work your surgeon can do for you.
3. Am I a suitable candidate for rhinoplasty?
While there are few restrictions on who is or is not a good candidate for rhinoplasty, having this discussion with your surgeon is a good idea.
Your situation is unique; your doctor will personally examine your medical history, anatomy, and desired goals (both functional and aesthetic) to determine the best course of action for you.
In some cases, your doctor may even advise you to use fillers rather than surgery to correct and balance your nose.
4. Do you take a closed or open approach to problem solving?
Rhinoplasty procedures can be performed using one of two surgical techniques.
Following a thorough analysis of your facial framework, many doctors will determine which approach is best for you.
The type and extent of reshaping desired can also influence which method is used.
Your doctor will be able to advise you on the advantages and disadvantages of each approach for your desired outcome, as well as how aftercare differs.
5. What is the rate of revision for your rhinoplasty patients?
The revision rate is the percentage of patients who require a second surgery to correct or refine the first.
Our revision rate is less than 5%, while the national revision rate is moderate.
The majority of cosmetic revisions are for minor contour changes.
A cosmetic rhinoplasty may reveal an underlying functional breathing problem, necessitating a revision to further improve breathing.
While uncommon, secondary surgeries to improve breathing are frequently covered by insurance.
6. What options do I have if I need a revision?
While the chances of requiring a revision are low with a skilled plastic surgeon, there is always the possibility that you will be dissatisfied with your new nose and will require one.
It is critical to understand your doctor’s revision policies.
7. How long will my recovery period last?
Each patient’s healing process will be unique.
While most patients recover in six weeks, some may experience swelling for months after the procedure.
You may experience varying healing times depending on the scope and degree of work done during your rhinoplasty.
Your doctor will advise you on recovery norms as well as ways to speed up your recovery.
8. How can I ensure the best possible outcome from my rhinoplasty?
While your doctor will do everything possible to keep you safe, healthy, and informed, you must also follow their instructions regarding care before and after your procedure.
Following these instructions can affect how long it takes to recover and how well your body heals.
While you may want to return to your normal routine as soon as possible, it is critical that you follow all aftercare instructions to avoid complications and risks.
9. Do you use simulation software to show me how changes to my nose might appear?
Some doctors use simulation software to demonstrate different techniques and nose changes.
This can help you understand what rhinoplasty options and outcomes are available to you.
Perhaps the nose you imagined all along does not look as perfect as you had hoped – this is an excellent opportunity to experiment with different options and learn what the doctor can do to help you achieve the balance and symmetry you desire.
10. Are my aesthetic goals attainable?
This is a difficult one.
While you may have a clear vision of how you want your new nose to look, that vision may not always be achievable through surgery.
The anatomy of your nose, for example, may preclude certain reshaping or restructuring.
Your doctor’s job is to collaborate with you to develop an individualized treatment plan that not only meets your health and functional needs, but also gets you as close to the nose that you desire as possible.
A critical component of this is managing your own expectations.
Remember that any plastic surgeon worth your time will be able to answer all of your questions and more.
When it comes to such a delicate and personal procedure, finding a knowledgeable and skilled doctor is critical.
