Understanding the Risks and Rewards of Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a ‘nose job,’ is a surgical procedure primarily aimed at changing the shape and size of your nose. It is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures globally and can dramatically improve facial symmetry. However, as with any surgical procedure, it is crucial to understand its associated risks and possible complications before opting for the surgery. Is rhinoplasty dangerous? Let’s delve into that question.
Any form of surgery inherently carries a degree of risk and rhinoplasty is no exception. However, when performed by a skilled and experienced surgeon these risks can be significantly minimised. The potential dangers linked to rhinoplasty include infection, abnormal bleeding, a bad reaction to anesthesia, and accidental injury to surrounding nasal structures. These complications occur very rarely and are usually manageable when they do.
One of the most noticeable risks that might develop following the procedure are changes in skin sensation. Patients may feel some numbness or irritation in certain areas of their nose. Most often these sensations are temporary and resolve naturally over time. However, it’s also crucial to consider the psychological implications. There could be dissatisfaction with the surgery’s results, leading to emotional distress or body dysmorphic disorder.
Beyond these issues, some patients also demonstrate difficulty in breathing after the procedure. This condition results from changes in the structure of the nose. It’s typically rare but can happen if the surgery alters the natural air passage of the nose, or if the healing process leads to the formation of scar tissue which narrows the airways.
An important factor to remember is that multiple revision surgeries increase the risk of complications. Hence, the decision to undergo rhinoplasty should be carefully considered and discussed thoroughly with a qualified surgeon.
In contrast to surgical rhinoplasty, ‘nose fillers’ or ‘non-surgical nose jobs’ have gained popularity over the years. This procedure utilises dermal fillers to alter nose shape or symmetry. While this non-invasive alternative poses less risk compared to surgical rhinoplasty, they too have their own associated risks such as skin discoloration, infection, and in rare cases, blindness.
Most of the complications related to rhinoplasty are manageable and transient, meaning they disappear over time. Also, many of the possible complications can be avoided by providing a full medical history to your doctor before the operation, carefully following your after-care instructions, and getting your procedure done by a qualified cosmetic surgeon.
The key to reducing potential risks lies in carefully selecting your surgeon and discussing your expectations. You should select a plastic surgeon who is experienced in performing rhinoplasty procedures, as this can greatly reduce your risk of experiencing complications. Moreover, realistic expectations can lead to greater satisfaction with the outcome. Remember that the goal of rhinoplasty is improvement, not perfection.
In conclusion, while there are definite risks involved, rhinoplasty is generally considered to be safe when performed by an experienced and qualified professional. As a patient, your understanding of these risks and proper communication with your surgeon is crucial in ensuring a successful and safe outcome of the procedure.