Rhinoplasty 101: What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery | Facial Cosmetic

When considering rhinoplasty, it’s essential to understand clearly what the process entails. Surgery of any kind requires preparation and knowledge about what to expect before, during, and after surgery. At Facial Cosmetic Surgery Associates in Sacramento, CA, we make sure you have all the information you need ahead of time. Meeting with us allows you to go into your surgery with a clear picture of what’s involved, so there are no surprises along the way. We’ll give you some important details to get you started, but scheduling a consultation is the best way to learn what rhinoplasty can involve for your unique situation.

What Rhinoplasty Involves

Nasal surgery focuses on reshaping the nose’s internal and external structures to improve functionality, appearance, or both. During the procedure, adjustments may be made to the nasal bone, cartilage, or septum, depending on your specific needs. The approach we take will depend on factors like your anatomy, the extent of the changes needed, and whether breathing issues are being addressed alongside aesthetic concerns.

Types of Rhinoplasty

Closed rhinoplasty involves making incisions inside the nostrils, leaving no visible scars. This method is often used for minor reshaping or adjustments to the nasal bridge or tip. It’s less invasive, with a shorter recovery time. Open rhinoplasty uses incisions on the outside of the nose, usually across the columella, as well as inside the nose. This type of rhinoplasty allows for greater visibility during the surgery but can leave a tiny visible scar.  

Revision rhinoplasty addresses issues from previous surgeries, such as unsatisfactory results or functional complications. This procedure can be more complex due to scar tissue or structural changes from the initial surgery. Nose augmentation focuses on building or enhancing the nasal structure using grafts made from your cartilage or synthetic materials. It is commonly chosen for patients with a flat bridge or structural irregularities that need additional support or reshaping.

A Few Pros and Cons of Rhinoplasty

Pros

Nose reshaping can address both cosmetic and functional concerns in a single procedure. Patients with breathing issues, such as a deviated septum, often experience significant improvements in airflow. Aesthetic changes can include refining the nasal tip, straightening the bridge, or resizing the nostrils, depending on your goals.

The results of nose reshaping are long-lasting, with structural changes maintaining their appearance for many years. Once healing is complete, revisions are rarely necessary unless significant trauma occurs.

Cons

Recovery from nose reshaping can involve swelling and bruising that lasts several weeks, although it will improve gradually. It’s important to plan for time off work or social events during this period. Surgical outcomes depend heavily on individual healing and anatomy. While we strive for precise results, subtle asymmetries can occur due to how tissues heal over time.

What to Expect Before Rhinoplasty

During your consultation, we’ll discuss your goals, evaluate your nasal structure, and review your medical history to see if you’re a good candidate for nose reshaping. Photographs may be taken to plan the surgery and to allow for comparisons later. You’ll receive preoperative instructions, including when to stop smoking or pause certain medications and how to plan your recovery period. Blood tests or other lab work may also be required to ensure your health is optimal for the procedure. It’s important to arrange transportation for the day of surgery and have someone available to assist you during the first 24 to 48 hours.

What to Expect During Rhinoplasty

Pre-Surgery Prep and Anesthesia

Before starting your nose surgery, we’ll confirm the surgical plan and make sure all your questions are answered. You’ll change into a surgical gown, and your vital signs will be monitored closely. Anesthesia is administered, typically either general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation, to keep you comfortable throughout the procedure.

The Surgery

During rhinoplasty, we’ll carefully make the chosen incisions. Cartilage or bone may be removed, reshaped, or added to achieve the desired contour. If functional issues like a deviated septum are present, they will also be addressed during the same procedure.

Immediate Post-Operative Care

Once the surgery is complete, a splint will be applied to the outside of the nose to maintain its new shape. Internal supports may be used if structural changes were made. In the recovery room, you’ll be monitored as the effects of anesthesia wear off and provided with instructions on managing swelling and caring for the surgical site.

What to Expect After Rhinoplasty

The First Week

In the first few days after your rhinoplasty surgery, expect swelling, bruising around the eyes, and some nasal congestion. Elevating your head, even while sleeping, helps reduce swelling. The external splint and any internal packing will typically be removed within a week, and you’ll be cleared to resume light activities. Avoid blowing your nose or engaging in strenuous activities during this time to protect the healing structures.

Weeks 2-4

Swelling will begin to subside, and bruising should fade considerably. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work or social activities around this time. The nose may still feel tender, so continue to follow post-operative care instructions, including avoiding glasses or anything that puts pressure on the nose. Activities that could risk trauma, like contact sports, should continue to be avoided.

Months 2-6

During these months, subtle changes in the nose’s shape and definition will become more apparent as residual swelling continues to subside. Healing progresses differently for everyone, but by the six-month mark, you’ll have a clearer picture of your final results. Follow-up appointments are scheduled to monitor your progress.

Tips for Recovery

After your nose job, limit sun exposure as the skin on and around your nose may be more sensitive. Use cold compresses as directed to minimize swelling, and stay hydrated to support healing. Continue to avoid smoking since it interferes with the body’s ability to repair tissue. If you notice any unusual symptoms, like increased pain or infection signs, contact our office immediately.

Learn More About Rhinoplasty Surgery in Sacramento, CA

A rhinoplasty specialist can help you achieve the functional and aesthetic improvements you want by customizing the procedure to your anatomy and goals. At Facial Cosmetic Surgery Associates, we provide detailed guidance and support throughout every step of the process, from consultation to recovery. To schedule a consultation, use our online form or call us at (916) 480-9080—we serve patients in Sacramento, CA, and surrounding areas, including Tahoe, Modesto, the Bay Area, and beyond.

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