Rhinoplasty Information

Qualifications

In general, good candidates for rhinoplasty are:

• Old enough that their facial growth is complete

• Healthy and do not have medical conditions that impair healing

• Nonsmokers

• Individuals with a positive outlook and realistic expectations

Preparation

In preparing for a rhinoplasty, you may be asked to:

• Get lab testing or a medical evaluation

• Take certain medications or adjust your current medications

• Stop smoking

• Avoid taking aspirin, anti-inflammatory drugs, and herbal supplements because they can increase bleeding and bruising

• Arrange for a friend or family member to drive you to and from surgery and to stay with you the first night following surgery

Recovery

A splint and/or packing may be placed inside your nose and a splint or bandages placed on the outside to support and protect the new structures during initial healing. Bruising can persist for a couple weeks.

Initial swelling subsides in the weeks following surgery; it may take up to a year for your new nasal contour to fully refine. During this time you may notice gradual changes in the appearance of your nose as it refines to a more permanent outcome. Swelling may come and go and worsen in the morning during the first year following a rhinoplasty.

Unlikely Complications