Your facial appearance is your calling card, and creates the first impression. The size and shape of your nose plays a significant role in the appeal of your face. Modern plastic surgery makes it possible, in talented hands, to create a more balanced, harmonious facial appearance by changing the shape, size or contour of the nose.
Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is one of the most commonly performed facial surgeries. About half a million rhinoplasty surgeries are performed every year in the USA. In addition to the procedure being performed for aesthetic improvement, a nose job may also be performed to resolve breathing problems associated with a deviated septum, birth defect, or trauma. If you have been considering a rhinoplasty in Beverly Hills, we want to assist you to take a closer look at the process.
Rhinoplasty Consultation
The first step in finding out more about a rhinoplasty is to schedule a private consultation. In this consultation, you will meet directly with Dr. Nassif. This gives you an opportunity to discuss your concerns and get all of your questions answered. You will have the opportunity to tell the doctor the type of nose you envision for yourself. Feel free to bring a photo of a celebrity or other person who has what you consider to be the perfect nose for you. At our offices, we have many photographs to help you through the process, including people with a similar facial structure or nose issue, so you can see the "before and after."
During your Beverly Hills rhinoplasty consultation, Dr. Nassif will ask you about your medical history, as well as any issue of substance abuse, tobacco use, or alcohol use. Furthermore, you will need to bring in all medications and supplements you currently take. Part of the consultation involves a full and accurate medical history. Tell Dr. Nassif about any past surgeries, procedures, and complications you have experienced in your life. He can then make a decision based upon your general health, and whether you are a good candidate for the procedure – most people are.
During your consultation, Dr. Nassif will make recommendations about best course of action to take for your nose job to achieve the most attractive result. Every person is different, and the nose structure may need to be altered significantly or just minimally, depending upon what needs to be achieved. He will also advise you about any further cosmetic procedures available to give you the best possible appearance, such as a facelift, neck lift, brow lift, or chin augmentation. After settling on the expected type of nose job to be performed, Dr. Nassif’s care team will take photographs of your face for comparison and preparation purposes.
Rhinoplasty Procedure
The Evening & Morning Before Rhinoplasty Surgery
As with all surgeries, you will need to stop eating and drinking fluids for a specific period of time the evening prior to your nose job, most often midnight. In some cases, defined by your physician, you may need to take certain medications with a small sip of water, e.g. beta-blockers, cholesterol medications, or other medicines.
For the least possible chance for infection, shower with an anti-microbial soap the evening before your nose job surgery. This removes and discourages the growth of bacteria on the surface of your skin. Try not to cause too much irritation of the face, specifically the nose, while scrubbing. Repeat this process the morning before the procedure. Don’t wear nasal or any facial piercing to the hospital. We don’t want them to get lost, and they may have bacteria on them.
The Rhinoplasty Surgery
The procedure will begin with a brief consultation with the nursing staff. They will review your adherence to the guidelines in relation to smoking, eating, drinking, and bathing the evening before and day of your procedure. When you go into the operating room, you will be administered the appropriate anesthesia. Most often, Beverly Hills rhinoplasty surgeons prefer to work with general anesthesia; however, local anesthetics can also be used. With local anesthetic, you will hear the surgery being performed. This may be stressful and frightening and most patients are more comfortable with general anesthesia.
Dr. Nassif will begin making the incisions for the procedure once you’re sedated. In order to reduce the appearance of scars, the incisions will be made on the interior of the nose. Tiny incisions may be required where the nostrils (nares) meet the cheek for changes made in the shape, size, and appearance of large or misshapen nostrils. Dr. Nassif will reshape your nose to match the vision you expressed in your consultation. He desires to give you only the best rhinoplasty Beverly Hills has to offer.
Most nose jobs require several hours if other procedures will be performed at the same time. After closing the incisions and addressing any issues with the nasal wall, or septum, you will be sent to the recovery room.
Recovery
The healing process for your rhinoplasty begins immediately when you awaken in the recovery room. Your nose may be stuffed with packing to sustain the altered structures. In addition, Dr. Nassif will place a stint on the exterior of your nose to hold the newly-shaped nose in place.
If you experience pain or nausea in the recovery room, inform the attending nurse so you can get help. The nurse will administer medications so you are comfortable and relaxed. Your rhinoplasty surgeon will prescribe you pain, nausea, and anti-inflammatory medications to take during your recovery period so that your healing process is smooth.
The day after your procedure, the packing and splint will be removed from your nose and replaced with a taped dressing. The tape will need to stay in place for one week. During this time, avoid getting the dressing wet as this can lead to the growth of bacteria and the potential for infection. There will be prominent bruising and swelling of the face and nose. Expect to see red and swollen eyes from the procedure. Take all medications as directed by your surgeon. This remains especially important for any steroids and antibiotic medications. This prevents the nose from becoming infected or other complications.
Limit your diet to light, bland foods for the first few days following your procedure. If you don’t experience any difficulties, you can move onto heavier, tastier foods. Please adhere to the dietary guidelines provided to you after surgery. Avoid foods and spices that have been known to cause you sneezing or other reactions.
To prevent the formation of blood clots, walk around several times each day for a minimum of ten minutes. In addition to warding off the formation of blood clots, this promotes the circulation and healing of tissues. Don’t bend or exert yourself physically until cleared by your physician. Though the stitches will be tiny, the still have the potential to break when you exert yourself.
To bring down the swelling, sleep with your head elevated above your heart. This isn’t required, and a pillow isn’t likely to dislodge the nasal cast. However, this position is the most comfortable way to avoid a smothering sensation while sleeping. Also, if you normally sleep with your pet, your furry friend must sleep alone for a few weeks following surgery – no pets in bed. No matter how clean your dog or cat is, harmful bacterial must not be brought near to your incision site.
Things to monitor during recovery
Elevated temperature. Buy a small thermometer to check your temperature every six to eight hours. The first sign of infection will be an increase in temperature.
Uncontrollable pain or headaches.
Excessive redness and heat beyond expectations.
What if I need to blow my nose the day after my rhinoplasty?
Do not blow your nose – it can harm the surgical site. This can rupture the stitches, cause severe pain, or cause excessive bleeding.
Can I present my new nose to everyone the day after my nose surgery?
Yes, but it won’t appear normal-sized. It will be bandaged, bruised, and swollen. After the tape is removed, the bruising may need another week to subside. The nose will continue to heal for the next month. In some cases of extensive reconstruction, the nose may require several months to attain the look desired. Don’t expect to be red-carpet ready for several weeks. The time will pass quickly, and a few months of healing is nothing when compared to a lifetime of feeling embarrassed or unhappy, and suffering a lack of self-confidence.
Can I drive myself home after rhinoplasty?
No. Because of the effects of anesthesia, patients cannot drive themselves home after rhinoplasty. If you are out of town and need transportation, our office can help you with the arrangements, including transport.
What can I do for pain or headaches after the procedure?
Only take medications as directed by your physician. Don’t take any type of medications containing aspirin or NSAIDs, such as ibuprofen. Apply a cool washcloth or ice pack to the top of your head for pain. Just ensure the bandage does not get wet.
I recently had a nose job in Los Angeles, but it was botched. Can I get it fixed?
Absolutely! Dr. Paul S. Nassif specializes in revision rhinoplasty in Beverly Hills. Please see this page for information on Rhinoplasty revisions.
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