How soon after rhinoplasty a patient can fly will depend on a variety of factors including what was done during surgery, was there simultaneous septal, sinus or other internal nasal surgery, and the duration of surgery. In most cases, patients can fly 7-10 days following rhinoplasty surgery.
Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure performed in a surgery center usually under a general anesthetic. The procedure, from beginning to end, usually takes between 1-3 hours, depending upon the desired results of the procedure.
A rhinoplasty may be performed in two ways. The first is called a closed procedure, in which the incisions are made inside the nostrils where scarring will not be visible. The tissue across the top and sides of the nose will be manipulated from below.
The second type of rhinoplasty procedure is called an open procedure, and is performed by making an incision across the columella, the narrow strip of tissue between the nostrils. Both procedures are frequently used.
There will be some swelling and bruising following a rhinoplasty surgery. Headaches and moderate pain are common, but will be easily controlled with a prescription pain medication.
Unlike many other types of cosmetic surgeries however, the downtime is minimal. Most patients are able to return to their normal activities within a matter of days.
Additionally, patients get to enjoy the immediate results of a new nose!
If you are unhappy about your nose, either for medical or aesthetic reasons, and are in good health, over the age of 18, and do not depend on blood-thinning medications, you may be an ideal candidate for rhinoplasty.
Your rhinoplasty surgeon should be extremely experienced and board certified.
They should inform you as to what your options are, how they can help you, and provide realistic results. Finding a rhinoplasty surgeon who can provide natural-looking results is also incredibly important.
A rhinoplasty surgeon should not only tell you what you need, but also listen to what you want.
A doctor’s experience should definitely influence your decision. The more experience a doctor has, the more familiar they are with rhinoplasty procedures.
“Before” and “after” pictures help show the difference rhinoplasty can make in individuals, but you shouldn’t base your decision solely on these pictures.
You should also discuss what your plastic surgeon can do for your specific situation.
Depending on what you need done, it can take anywhere from one and 1 to 3 hours.
If you need a revision rhinoplasty, it can take up to four hours.
Again, it depends on what type of rhinoplasty surgery you need, but you shouldn’t experience much pain for a prolonged period of time.
Gauze wicks are placed in your nose after surgery and must remain in your nostrils for a day, which can cause slight discomfort, but once they are removed,
you shouldn’t experience high levels of discomfort. If necessary, Doctor can prescribe pain medication.
Serious risks associated with rhinoplasty are extremely rare.
Many people experience nasal drainage a few days following the surgery, and it is normal if some of the drainage is “blood tinged.” It is advised you do not work or attend school for at least one week after the surgery to ensure you heal properly.
While every patient is different, you can typically see the final results approximately 6-12 months after completion of the procedure.