A rhinoplasty or commonly known as a nose job is a complex surgical procedure that demands that both the surgeon and patient be completely prepared. While gaining an attractive nose is something that many patients dream of, it is so much more than just showing up for surgery and having the procedure done.
It is crucial that you follow the pre and postoperative instructions given to you by your plastic surgeon. In this blog, we are going to take a look at the things you need to know before getting a Chicago Rhinoplasty; keep reading to find out more!
About Rhinoplasty in Chicago
Many women and men choose to undergo a rhinoplasty procedure every year to alter the size and shape of their noses. If you are unhappy with the way your nose looks, don’t worry because you are not alone! In fact, more than 220,000 nose jobs are performed each year in the United States! It is also the third most-performed plastic surgery in the country. Patients choose rhinoplasties for different reasons, including:
- An effective measure to form a more aesthetically pleasing nose
- To help fix problems with breathing
Patients don’t realize that rhinoplasty is a very challenging and delicate treatment when compared to other cosmetic procedures. Modern rhinoplasty is a combination of years of science and surgical artistry. Due to its complexity, adequate communication is paramount for achieving optimal results. Therefore, it is the responsibility of both the surgeon and the patient to communicate thoroughly.
During their first consultation, it’s critical for patients to explain their desired expectations and ask as many questions as they can to be fully prepared. Your plastic surgeon will answer any questions that you have while educating you on the entire treatment plan and counsel you regarding what needs to be done before and after surgery.
Preparing for a Rhinoplasty Procedure in Chicago
Below are a few things patients need to follow prior to a rhinoplasty procedure. Ensure you follow them to minimize any chance of complications during your procedure and maximize results.
Smoking
If you constantly smoke, you are going to have to give it up for an extended period of time, both before and after the procedure. Nicotine constricts blood vessels. This impeded healthy blood flow to the area that was being treated. Smoking too close to your surgery increases the likelihood of scarring while preventing the wound from healing properly. Therefore, if you are a smoker, it is recommended that you completely stop at least four weeks before the surgery and continue to avoid smoking for at least four weeks after the procedure.
Prepare Your Medications
You will be in discomfort after your treatment, and the last thing that you are going to want to do is run around town trying to get your medications. So that you can go straight home to rest and start the recovery process, your surgeon can arrange for your prescriptions to be ready for pickup before your day of surgery.
Secure a Ride Home
Just like many surgical procedures, you will be in discomfort, and there will be some residual effects from the general anesthesia. You will not be able to drive after you have had a nose job. If you are going to get a rhinoplasty, you need to arrange transportation to and from the plastic surgery office. For patients that are going to use a private transportation service such as Uber, you should still ask a family member or close friend to accompany you.
Prepare Your Home for your Recovery Period
The road to recovery usually takes between seven and ten days, and you will be in mild to moderate discomfort. Therefore, you should prepare your home to make the recovery process easier. We recommend that you clean your house, pre-make food, and ask friends and family to help out with daily tasks. Depending on how well your recovery process goes, you should be able to go back to work a week after your procedure. Swelling and visible signs of stitching should completely go away around three weeks after your surgery.
Avoid Certain Medications
Patients need to completely avoid using certain medications at least four weeks before surgery. These include certain herbal supplements alonside non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. Many of these common brand-named medications can cause anesthetic effects, excessive bleeding, and negatively interact with medications prescribed to you after your surgery. Medications to avoid include:
- Vitamin E
- Omega-3 Fish Oils
- Aspirin
- Naproxen
- Ibuprofen
- Green Tea
- Among others
What to Expect After Your Rhinoplasty Surgery in Chicago
Now that you know about the things that you need to avoid before your surgery, here are a few things to expect following your treatment! They include:
Duration of a Nose Job
Depending on the condition of the nose being treated, a rhinoplasty can take anywhere between 2 and 4 hours. Following your nose job, you should also expect to spend up to 2 hours in the recovery room so the specialists at the clinic can monitor your condition.
Side Effects of Certain Medications
Any pain or discomfort that you feel after a nose job is controlled with prescribed medication. It is essential that you follow the prescription closely. You must also be aware that certain narcotic pain medications can cause different issues, such as constipation.
Management of Nausea
Due to the side effects of anesthesia, it is common for patients to experience nausea for the first 24-48 hours after their nose job. However, if nausea and or persistent nausea for more than two days, it is crucial that you contact your doctor.
Ask a Friend or Family Member to Stay with You
Monitoring your condition directly after your surgery is essential. Therefore, it is recommended that you ask a friend or family member to stay with you and monitor your condition for at least 24 hours.
Have More Questions about Chicago Rhinoplasty? Contact the Experts
Are you interested in fixing the shape, position, or size of your nose? Do you have certain questions about the procedure that you need answers to? Then contact one of the leading clinics in Chicago for Rhinoplasty, Dr. Dayan!
