5 Things to Consider Before Getting a Nose Job

Your nose is smack dab in the middle of your face. It is a part of your face that nobody can ignore. And if you’re unhappy with it, you can’t hide it with sunglasses or with lipstick.

If you lack self-confidence because of how you feel about your nose, a rhinoplasty or a nose job is an option. Rhinoplasty can change aspects of your nose, including its shape, size, and profile.

The goal of rhinoplasty is to achieve balance and symmetry between the nose and the rest of your facial features. But it’s not always about aesthetics. It is also performed to correct breathing problems, prior injury, or some birth defects.

Are you considering rhinoplasty? Here are five things that you need to know before going under the knife.

1. Temper Your Expectations

Everyone wants to have Kate Middleton’s nose and you might be tempted to ask your surgeon to copy hers. But right then and there, any reputable surgeon will tell you that you can’t ask for someone else’s nose.

Try copy pasting any celebrity nose to your face. The result will not impress you and might even horrify you.

Your nose has to suit your face. If you have certain expectations, you have to convey these to your doctor. They will adjust your expectations to be more in-line with what is possible to achieve.

Here are some before and after pictures from Allure Plastic Surgery rhinoplasty patients to get an idea of what to expect.

2. A Nose Job Is a Surgical Procedure That Has Risks Involved

Rhinoplasty is not as complicated as open-heart surgery. But like any other surgery, there are things that could happen during and after the procedure.

The most common unwanted outcome of rhinoplasty is dissatisfaction with the cosmetic result. You should ask about the revision policy. Some will perform a revision free of charge if you’re not happy, but other doctors will have certain criteria.

Some issues like infection, bleeding, and breathing issues are uncommon. More serious reactions like anesthesia complications and death are rare.

3. You’ll Need to Open Your Wallet

Rhinoplasty is not cheap. The average surgeon/physician fee for nose reshaping is $5,046 in 2016.

To be covered by health insurance, you must prove that the procedure is reconstructive, either alone or concurring with cosmetic rhinoplasty. A detailed examination of your breathing problem will be required.

4. Know the Different Types of Rhinoplasty

There are two types of primary rhinoplasty: open and closed. You should ask your surgeon which technique will be used for your operation.

Open rhinoplasty uses an incision along the columella, which is the skin and cartilage separating the nostrils. For closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nostril. Both techniques have advantages and disadvantages. Ideally, the doctor will perform the technique that is most suited for your nose.

5. After the Procedure, Patience Is Key

The big reveal after your nose job will probably disappoint you if you’re not prepared. The bruising and swelling on your face will make you think that the surgeon botched the operation.

But this all normal and should resolve within seven to ten days. Some residual swelling will take longer to completely disappear, from six to eight weeks to as long as twelve to fifteen months.

Changing Your Appearance Is Not the Only Way to Boost Your Self-Confidence

While a new beautiful nose will help you get rid of insecurities, there are other ways to improve yourself. Check out our other articles on self-improvement.