Your main concern following rhinoplasty surgery is probably the final appearance. Has the bulge on the bridge of my nose vanished? Does my nose look big now? Will the tip take on the new shape i had envisioned? These and other questions are normal, but when weighing the pros and cons, it’s also important to understand the risks.
Your plastic surgeon will explain the specifics of the operation to you during your consultation and before the procedure, as well as any potential dangers. You will meet with your surgeon and/or a member of his or her team. They will ask you to sign several consent forms to make sure you fully understand the risks of the treatment.
You should keep in mind that you can reduce your chance of complications by giving up smoking, stopping the use of certain drugs, eating a nutritious diet, and choosing a board-certified, reputable plastic surgeon. Otolaryngologists and facial plastic surgeons who hold dual board certifications have had considerable training in the nose’s anatomy and physiology. For additional details on the typical dangers associated with rhinoplasty treatments, continue reading.
Bleeding
Perhaps the most frequent danger of rhinoplasty is blood loss. Delicate blood vessels that make up your nose could be harmed during surgery. A portion of those individuals endure significant blood loss following surgery, and the majority of patients lose between 50 and 150 ml of blood during the procedure. You run the risk of bleeding if you don’t adhere to your doctor’s post-operative instructions or if you blow your nose too hard. Even though it is rare, it is also possible to have a nosebleed that is very bad. If this happens, you might need a blood transfusion because you lost so much blood.
Taking specific drugs increases your chance of blood loss as well. Any prescription or over-the-counter medications you are currently taking should be discussed with your doctor. Aspirin, ibuprofen, and coumadin are examples of drugs that function as blood thinners and raise the risk of bleeding.
Reactions to anesthesia
Anesthesia is used by surgeons during rhinoplasty procedures to lessen pain and make the process safer. Anesthesia comes in two flavors: local and general. Depending on the kind of rhinoplasty you choose and the surgeon’s choice, your doctor will recommend one of a few different types of anesthesia.
Only the area around your nose will be numbed because local anaesthetic is used for less intrusive procedures. You will be partially alert during the procedure and will have some post-operative drowsiness.
For a more invasive rhinoplasty treatment, general anesthesia is typically advised. Given that many patients would like to not be awake throughout the procedure, this is the most prevalent sort of anesthesia that they choose. You will receive medication from an anesthesiologist that will put you into a deep slumber intravenously. During surgery, a tube is utilized to protect the airway.
Rhinoplasty alters your nose’s external appearance, but you might not be aware that it can also alter how you breathe. A rhinoplasty can also be done to fix structural issues on the inside of the nose, such as a deviated septum or other anomalies. A smaller or deflated nose following rhinoplasty surgery might restrict breathing.
When the nose heals, it may move and leave scars, which may also obstruct the airway. It may also feel as though the nose is blocked due to the diminished feeling caused by incisions in the nose. When the nose is excessively open and too much air enters the nasal cavities, there is a paradoxical sensation of nasal blockage. Breathing requires a careful balance, so it’s important to keep as much of the nose’s structure as possible in good shape.
Realistic Expectations
There is always a chance that after the bandages are removed and the swelling has subsided from a rhinoplasty, you won’t be satisfied with the outcome. It always takes time for the healing process to complete itself. The surgeon is in charge of the surgery, but your body will take care of the healing on its own. By taking care of yourself and doing as you are told, you can speed up the healing process.
It is crucial to be truthful about what to anticipate following surgery. Honest communication between you and your doctor is essential. The outcome of your rhinoplasty strongly depends on a variety of aspects of your physical and mental makeup.
Pain
Depending on the adjustments the surgeon makes to your nose, you might feel pain after surgery. Most people only experience mild discomfort, which is typical and can be treated with analgesics or prescription medicines. Some rhinoplasty patients may feel increased pain due to significant changes made to the nasal bone and cartilage.
Your doctor will elicit information from you prior to the procedure to gauge your level of pain tolerance and identify any potential pain sensitivity. In cases of pain, Dr Joseph Shvidler will prescribe a modest prescription painkiller. However, most patients say they only need it for one or two days, at most.
Infection
A relatively small risk of rhinoplasty is infection because the nose has such a good blood supply. Awareness is essential with difficulties as well. High temperatures, inflammation, foul-smelling nasal discharge, or unusual swelling or pain are all indications of infection. If you’re unsure whether to call 911 or your doctor about a potential infection, use your doctor’s advice along with your best judgment. Grafts inside the nose raise the risk of infection because there are more places where blood flow is cut off.