Rhinoplasty: What To Expect Before, During, and After Surgery

Also known as a nose job, a rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes your nose for functional and aesthetic purposes. But what exactly should you be expecting with this popular surgical face procedure? Our team of plastic surgeons at North Texas Plastic Surgery is here to help you understand the rhinoplasty process and what to expect before, during, and after your surgery.

Preparing for a Rhinoplasty

The first step in the rhinoplasty process is meeting with your surgeon for an initial consultation. This is when you will discuss your goals for surgery and your medical history. Your provider will examine your face, take photographs, and discuss the type of results you would like to see. You will also have the opportunity to view before-and after-photos from our previous clients, to see the amazing potential of this procedure. Your surgeon will explain what to expect before, during, and after your nose job, and you can ask any questions you have.

What Happens During a Rhinoplasty?

Your surgeon at North Texas Plastic Surgery will further explain what will happen during your rhinoplasty. If you are getting an open rhinoplasty, an incision will be made across the base of your nose. The skin covering your nasal bones and cartilage will be raised, and the underlying bones and cartilages will be moved to create a new shape or correct a deviated septum. The skin above the nasal bones and cartilage will be replaced and secured with small stitches. The specifics of the procedure are largely depending on the type of contouring we will be doing, so we will fully explain the process of your particular situation before surgery day.

Typically, a rhinoplasty can be completed within several hours. Your surgeon will let you know how long your specific procedure is likely to take and how to prepare for it.

The Recovery Process After a Rhinoplasty

Because a nose job is an outpatient procedure, you can expect to return home the same day after surgery. You will need to have someone drive you home and stay with you overnight to tend to your needs.

As you recover from surgery, you will have a small splint to minimize swelling and help your new nose maintain its shape while healing. Cotton gauze may also be placed inside of your nose, but you will likely be able to remove it within several days, depending on your surgeon’s instructions. We can also prescribe an oral pain reliever.

If you work from home or out-of-sight of others, you can return to the job in two or three days, but for most other jobs you may want to wait up to 10 days for the swelling and bruising to subside. You should also wait a few weeks to return to high-impact exercises.

Learn All About Your Rhinoplasty Prep and Recovery When You Schedule a Consultation With Us!

Our team at North Texas Plastic Surgery is excited to guide you through the rhinoplasty process so you feel at ease when surgery day arrives! We want to help you get results that you will love and feel confident about showing off. Schedule a consultation with our team at any of our office locations to get started on your personalized care journey and learn more about what to expect before, during, and after your rhinoplasty.