When evaluating plastic surgery, patients often find themselves wondering if going through the surgery itself is going to be worth it. Beyond the associated costs of the procedure, there is the recovery period and the downtime that comes with that. It can be easy to get caught up in these details versus focusing on all of the positive results that the procedure can bring with it.
Keep in mind that making the decision to undergo any elective surgery is a very personal choice and is one that you should make for yourself. Don’t allow yourself to be influenced by the opinions and thoughts of others. This is your decision to make, based on personal factors.
Considering the cost of rhinoplasty
There’s no disputing that rhinoplasty and other elective cosmetic procedures can be costly considerations. The cost can lead some to reconsider whether the procedure is truly right for them. If cost is your primary hesitation, consider that there are various ways to fund and finance your surgery.
In some situations, insurance can cover at least part of the costs of surgery. If your rhinoplasty is necessary in order to remedy a breathing concern or a structural issue, you should examine whether insurance may cover it.
There are also often many types of financing options for you to look into. These financing options can help you to get the surgery you need and help you to get back the confidence you’ve been missing. Other ways to fund your surgery could include crowdfunding or asking a close family member to assist you with paying for it.
Considering the postoperative downtime
You will need at least a full week of postoperative recovery at home. Depending on the extent of repair needed during your surgery, you may need up to two weeks to recover. According to rhinoplasty clinic ONE Face, the majority of patients return to work within 10 days. The swelling, bruising and stuffy-nose may last for a bit longer, but should not interfere with your ability to work.
Patients largely fear the potential for postoperative pain, but any discomfort can be readily managed by pain relievers and ice packs. Your surgeon will be able to provide you with prescription medications, as needed, and will also ensure you know the types of over-the-counter pain relievers that you can use.
What is your why?
Perhaps the most important thing to consider when you’re trying to determine if the rhinoplasty procedure is going to be worth it, is why you want the surgery. Are you looking to correct structural issues that make it difficult to breathe? Are you looking to correct a crooked nose that was hit during an incident? Are you looking to correct a dorsal hump or a bulbous tip?
Keeping your reasons for surgery in mind while evaluating all other contributing factors will help you to make the right decision for your needs. It can be easy to feel bogged down by each of the other aspects of the surgery. Focusing on why you’re doing this can help you to feel much more confident about your decision.
Potential side-effects and risks of rhinoplasty
Even a surgeon with years of experience and expertise cannot guarantee against the risks of side-effects of the rhinoplasty procedure. Following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions will go a long way towards ensuring that your recovery is as smooth as is possible. That said, there are still some minor concerns to be aware of after your surgery.
There is a very small risk of bleeding after the procedure. Patients should be sure to let their surgeon know if they experience excessive postoperative bleeding. There may also be a slight reduction in your sense of smell after the surgery, which will also impact your sense of taste. This is typically a temporary concern caused by postoperative swelling, and will pass as the swelling begins to subside.
Some patients may develop a postoperative infection, but this can typically be addressed quickly with a round of antibiotics.
Side-effects and risks associated with rhinoplasty are relatively minor and shouldn’t last very long if they do take place. Be sure to always listen to the advice that your surgeon provides, as this will help to minimize the potential for postoperative issues. Keep in mind, also, that most patients experience almost no serious complications from the rhinoplasty procedure. Your surgeon can discuss any and all concerns you have about them, during your consultation.
Remember that the results your surgery will produce have the potential to boost your self-confidence and your self-image. Cosmetic surgery can restore harmony to your facial features and leave you feeling much happier when you catch your reflection in the mirror. The recovery time can be frustrating, as it does take you away from your daily routine, but it is a relatively short recovery period that will bring with it a lifetime of contentment with your new nose.
