Nose jobs are among the most requested cosmetic surgeries around the world but many surgeons report low patient satisfaction levels, probably because of the sensitivity we have to this area of the face. When considering rhinoplasty surgery however, most patients would like to know the answer to one major question: does rhinoplasty hurt?
What Is Rhinoplasty And Why Is It Performed?
Rhinoplasty surgery is a surgical procedure to the nose. It is performed to reshape or repair the nose. It can be performed for cosmetic or medical reasons, namely:
- To address physical problems with the nose, such as breathing difficulties or;
- To address physical defects that may have been present since birth or as a result of trauma.
Patients also pursue rhinoplasty surgery because they want to correct cosmetic issues such as
- Straightening bumps on the nose
- Narrowing the tip of the nose
- Correcting a deviated septum
- Straightening a crooked nose
Does Rhinoplasty Hurt?
If you are wondering about does rhinoplasty hurt, remember that the procedure is performed under anaesthetic so you definitely will not feel pain while your surgeon is at work. You will be administered general anaesthetic before any incisions are made into your nose.
Your surgeon will be cutting into bone and/or cartilage in order to do the necessary reshaping, which necessitates the use of anaesthetic.
It is indisputable that you will feel discomfort after your surgery is complete but many patients actually report that they look worse than they feel.
What To Expect After Rhinoplasty Surgery?
Swelling, discomfort and pain are typically experienced more after the surgery is complete, as you go through the healing process and once your anaesthetic has worn off. It is quite likely that you can experience bruising in your nose, under your eyes and around your cheekbones for up to seven days after the procedure is complete.
How To Manage Pain And Swelling After A Nose Job?
It should be comforting to know that enough nose jobs have been performed that your surgeon is experienced enough to instruct you how to manage any discomforts in the aftermath of your procedure. You will be prescribed medication for pain, swelling and bruising, and probably also advised to keep your head elevated when you rest and sleep. This will help to manage the swelling. Your doctor will probably also recommend that you use ice packs or cold compresses.
Some mucus discharge is also considered to be normal in the days after your rhinoplasty surgery procedure. Your surgeon will also instruct you to abstain from blowing your nose for at least seven days after the procedure.
You can also expect to experience headaches while you recover. It’s important to get as much rest as you can as you recover after surgery. Try and make sure that your home is set up for you to do as little as possible so that your healing can go ahead comfortably. You will be advised not to smoke and drink alcohol afterwards as smoking can increase your risk of developing an infection, and also interfere with your rate of recovery.
Manage Discomfort And Swelling After Nose Jobs
After the procedure your surgeon will wrap your nose in a splint to keep it in shape. The area will be bandaged, which may feel uncomfortable but this is a very necessary part of the healing process that you will need to get through. Once you have got through this seven to ten day period, the bandages will come off and the cruising and swelling is likely to have improved.
What Risks Are Associated With Nose Jobs?
Rhinoplasty surgery is a surgical procedure that is associated with risks, which you should definitely discuss with your surgeon prior. Your first consultation will require that your surgeon takes a full medical history where you will detail any medications you have been taking as well as any chronic conditions you might suffer from. Giving a complete medical history enables your surgeon to make good judgement calls in your best interests and manage your risks as well as possible.
Some of the risks associated with rhinoplasty include
- Infections of the surgical site, which may require secondary treatment
- Pain after the procedure
- Nosebleeds
- Scarring as a result of the surgery
- Breathing difficulties because of constricted airways
- Darkened skin in the area below your eyes
Perhaps one of the most notable complications of rhinoplasty surgery that should be discussed with your surgeon is the possibility that you are not fully satisfied with the outcome of your surgery. While the primary bruising around your nose area is likely to improve in seven to 10 days after the procedure, remember that it could take up to a year for your nose to settle fully and for you to see what the end result will look like. It will take a few weeks for the swelling to improve. For this reason, most surgeons will recommend that you do not even consider revisional surgery until six to 12 months have passed.
If you want to know does rhinoplasty hurt because you are aware that you have a low pain threshold you should discuss your pain management options with your surgeon prior to surgery.
For confidential consultation, personalised to your individual needs, please get in touch with us: (02) 8599 7161.
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that can change the shape, size or proportions of your nose. Investigating rhinoplasty before and Read more
Many years ago patients may have been attracted to the prospect of a nose job in Thailand, but the procedures Read more
At Refine Clinic our objective is to help our patients achieve their perfect nose shape. And, while your rhinoplasty journey Read more
Rhinoplasty, or nose-job, surgery can be one of the more invasive procedures performed. Patients are often surprised that healing and Read more
What Kind Of Results Can Rhinoplasty Achieve?
