Commonly referred to as a nose job, nose surgery is clinically defined as a rhinoplasty. Nose surgery or nose reshaping is intended to improve the appearance of the nose for better facial balance and aesthetics. Although it is a cosmetic procedure, nose surgery can be required following facial trauma or to correct medical conditions.
Ideal Nose Surgery Candidates
How can you tell if you’re a good candidate for nose surgery? While it’s a very personal decision to make, there are few boxes you should be able to check before pursuing this procedure. For instance, nose surgery isn’t recommended for individuals who are still growing and developing. Generally speaking, human faces stop growing by the time we’ve reached 21 years of age; however, female faces typically are finished growing by the early or mid-teenage years.
Other factors that are critical to consider before scheduling a consult for nose surgery is your physical health. Also, smokers are not good candidates for nose surgery because cigarettes impair the body’s natural healing process, which could lead to complications during or post-surgery. Provided you’re healthy and a non-smoker, nose surgery could be a viable option for you.
Just as important, however, is your perspective when it comes to improving your appearance. While nose surgery candidates are looking for a more symmetrical appearance, it’s essential to acknowledge that no face is perfect. All faces feature asymmetry in one way or another, to different degrees of noticeability.
Post-Procedure
It’s not uncommon for plastic surgeons to place a splint on your nose to help protect its new shape. Most patients are monitored for a few hours post-surgery, but can go home that same day. Anesthesia will make it unsafe for you to drive, so make sure you arrange transportation home ahead of time.
Rest up at home, keeping your head elevated above your chest and expect to see your surgeon approximately one week post-op to ensure proper healing.
Learn more about rhinoplasty surgery from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.
Rhinoplasty Before & After Gallery
Ready to consider rhinoplasty and experience how nose surgery can improve the look and feel of your nose? Contact our office today for a consultation with Dr. Sterling.
