Interesting facts about rhinoplasty

1. The demand for rhinoplasty remains very high.
   According to the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS), in 2015 more than 145,000 people had plastic surgeons perform nose surgeries.
2. Rhinoplasty isn’t always done simply for the cosmetic aspects.
   Often nose surgery is performed to correct medical issues. Many patients have breathing issues resulting from a deviated septum or large turbinates (the portion of the nose which heats and filters air when you breathe). Nasal surgery isn’t necessarily about how the nose looks; many times it is about the way the nose functions. This surgery has the potential to truly improve the lives of patients by stopping or reducing the suffering caused by trauma, injury or by breathing difficulties.
3. Some patients may desire a specific style of nose and often bring in a photo of a celebrity.
   A nose that looks great on one person may look awkward on someone else. When it comes to rhinoplasty, one size definitely does not fit all. It’s also generally not possible to create a nose that looks just like another person’s nose.
4. All good rhinoplasty outcomes have at least one thing in common — a natural appearance.
   The most attractive nose is one that is in harmony with your facial features. A harmonious nose should blend in, not stand out.
5. For most people, nose surgery is not prohibitively expensive.
   The cost can be very manageable/affordable especially when using a healthcare financing plan like Care Credit®.
6. Rhinoplasty does not have the lengthy recovery that some patients may think it has.
   The actual surgery takes approximately 1-2 hours, and the recovery level for a rhinoplasty is between mild and moderate. The splint and bandaging around the nose will be removed in approximately one week.
7. Winter months see the most demand for rhinoplasty.
   The recovery from nose surgery is generally easier and quicker in cold weather, and many patients find it more convenient to stay home/take vacation time in the winter months.
8. One way to speed recovery is to steer clear of some medications pre-surgery.
   Aspirin, Advil, and other drugs should be avoided for a period of time pre-surgery; approximately 7-10 days. Medications that could lead to bleeding include: Aspirin Advil, Motrin, Aleve, and Vitamin E. There are homeopathic herbs such as Bromelain and Arnica Montana, which can be taken to help speed recovery, decrease swelling and make bruising disappear more quickly.
9. Digital imaging can be a powerful preoperative tool.
   This technology allows the surgeon and the surgical candidate to communicate in a very clear and effective way. It can be very helpful to make sure that the patient’s expectations are realistic. At Edina Plastic Surgery we have a state-of-the-art camera called the Vectra XT that can be used to show patients a reasonable goal for the outcome of the procedure.
10. Even with the best digital imaging technology, nothing can replace the value of a consultation and evaluation by a talented, experienced board-certified plastic surgeon.
    At Edina Plastic Surgery each surgeon takes the time to discuss the patient’s desires and goals. The potential rhinoplasty patient is given a careful physical examination to determine both the possible aesthetic changes and the potential functional deficits. The surgeons also carefully evaluate the surrounding facial area. In some cases additional or alternative procedures that may complement the rhinoplasty result might be suggested.
11. After surgery, elevating your head with multiple pillows is a good idea to help reduce nighttime swelling. It is an easy and effective way to help speed the recovery post-rhinoplasty.