There were more than 18 lakh cosmetic procedures conducted around the world in 2018, says a report by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Rhinoplasty surgery, commonly known as a nose job, accounted for 2.1 lakh procedures globally.
This procedure has been a popular option for people who are unhappy with the appearance of their nose. More importantly, it is a good option to remove nasal bumps, correct trauma due to injuries or birth defects. Rhinoplasty surgery has also evolved to help patients seeking to improve nasal function, breathing and ability to exercise.
The procedure involves reshaping of the nasal bones and cartilage to create a nose that can enhance your facial features or eliminate difficulties in breathing. There are various ways to perform this procedure, and it varies from patient to patient.
So, if you are thinking of getting this procedure done, here are some things to expect before and after a nose job.
MEASURES TO TAKE BEFORE SURGERY
If you are planning to get a nose job, you’ll need to take a few precautions before the surgery.
TWO WEEKS PRIOR
Don’t consume alcohol, since it will thin your blood and increase the risk of bruising. Also avoid any type of nicotine products, since they can slow down recovery post-surgery and also increase chances of complications.
Painkillers with ibuprofen and aspirin should be avoided, since they affect the blood clotting ability. In case you have been taking herbal supplements, stop using them before the surgery, since they can have negative interactions with anaesthesia.
THE NIGHT BEFORE
On the day before surgery, make sure you take a good bath, since you won’t be able to take a head shower for a few days after rhinoplasty to prevent your bandages from getting wet.
Stock up on easy to consume food and drinks for the day after your surgery. The reason is that you may feel too nauseous and having something that can relieve such feelings would help. You will need to stick to soft, light foods for 24 hours and avoid foods that involve a lot of chewing. Also, since your mouth will be dry most of the time, make sure you have a lot of beverages available.
Eight hours before the surgery, you will not be allowed to eat or drink anything. This is done to prevent regurgitation when you are under general anaesthesia. If your stomach isn’t completely empty, food or water can enter your lungs, leading to serious problems.
Make sure you get a good eight to ten hours of sleep on the night before. This will help you calm down any nerves before the procedure.
ON THE DAY OF THE SURGERY
Women should ensure that they don’t wear any makeup, jewellery or lenses. Also, wear comfortable and loose clothes that have zips or buttons in the front. This will prevent you from pulling them up over your head, risking damage to your nose.
Arrange for someone to drop you off and pick you from the clinic after rhinoplasty.
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER THE NOSE JOB?
The results of the surgery on the nose might seem scary at first, but the effects are only temporary. As time passes, the swelling will gradually reduce. The enhanced shape of the nose will become visible once the healing is complete, as long as you avoid any strain on your body for 3 to 6 weeks, says Dr Ashutosh Misra, a leading plastic surgeon in Delhi.
After the surgery you will feel mild to moderate pain. This is expected to decrease within 72 hours and can be controlled through prescribed oral medications.
There can be some amount of swelling and bruising, which will be maximum on the second day, but will reduce thereafter. Swelling can be most commonly experienced around the eyes. The amount of bruising can vary from person to person and is quite normal.
A gauze dressing will be put under your nose, which will need to be changed frequently within the first 24 to 48 hours after rhinoplasty surgery.
