Cosmetic imperfections and nasal breathing problems can be improved through rhinoplasty in Chicago. If you want to enhance the appearance of your nose to complement the rest of your face, a nose job is a viable option. If you have breathing issues, rhinoplasty surgery can correct the function of your nasal structures.

At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, rhinoplasty is a common procedure. Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure performed to correct a wide variety of functional and aesthetic issues in the nose and nasal airways. This type of facial plastic surgery allows surgeons to bring the nose into balance and harmony with the rest of the facial features.

AM I A CANDIDATE FOR RHINOPLASTY?

If you have breathing issues due to an airway obstruction or an abnormality in the nasal structure, you may be a candidate for functional rhinoplasty. These obstructions can be due to congenital issues or injuries that affect the nasal structure. If you are unhappy with the size, shape, or contours of your nose, aesthetic rhinoplasty may be an option for you.

Patients who smoke or are otherwise not in good physical health are typically not ideal candidates for rhinoplasty. This procedure is only carried out on patients whose facial growth is complete. That should be around the age of 15 or 16 for girls and 17 or 18 for boys. The ideal candidate for rhinoplasty is someone who has clear goals and realistic expectations regarding their surgery.

WHAT TO EXPECT FROM A CONSULTATION

Any medical center or clinic you choose should be willing to sit down with you and take the time to explain all aspects of the procedure beforehand, including associated risks and recovery. A physical examination of your nose and face will be performed during your consultation. At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we thoroughly review your medical history. We will discuss your general health, any medications you take, any pre-existing health conditions, and any procedures or treatments you’ve undergone in the past. Tell us about any vitamins, herbal supplements, nicotine, alcohol, or other drugs you’re currently taking prior to your rhinoplasty procedure.

We will speak with you about your expectations and provide you with an extensive overview of both functional and aesthetic details of rhinoplasty surgery. Bring a list of questions to your rhinoplasty consultation, and be prepared to discuss both the cosmetic and functional benefits you hope to achieve. We will take facial measurements and photos and then make a treatment plan recommendation.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR RHINOPLASTY?

There are a number of steps needed to prepare for your nasal surgery procedure:

• For two weeks before rhinoplasty surgery, you must abstain from taking any aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, or other non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs. You will also be advised to refrain from taking vitamin E, along with certain herbal supplements. You should be fine taking Tylenol or a similar acetaminophen product plus a multivitamin every day.
• You should not smoke for at least two weeks prior to and two weeks following rhinoplasty surgery. Tobacco and nicotine both interfere with healing and can lead to a number of complications.
• It is highly recommended to stay out of the sun for two weeks before the rhinoplasty operation. Daily sunscreen use is encouraged.
• You will be given your post-operative medications (usually an antibiotic and pain medication) on the day of your surgery.
• The use of a saline nasal spray is acceptable. Specific brands will be discussed during your consultation.
• Do not drink anything, not even water, after midnight on the night before surgery.
• You may need to arrange in advance for a friend or family member to give you a ride home following surgery. This will depend on the anesthesia chosen for your procedure.

HOW RHINOPLASTY IS PERFORMED

All surgical procedures by the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago are performed at top hospitals in Chicago and CMS or AAAASF-certified surgical centers for safety.

First, patients are placed under anesthesia in order to ensure safety and comfort during the procedure. Next, incisions are made to allow the surgeon access to the nose.

Rhinoplasty can be performed by either an open procedure or a closed procedure. In an open procedure, an incision is made along the columella, the thin bridge of tissue that connects the nostrils. In a closed procedure, the incision is hidden inside the nasal cavity.

Surgical modifications are then made, which may involve removing cartilage, using sutures to reshape cartilage, bone contouring, or placement of cartilage grafts. In a functional rhinoplasty procedure, airway obstructions or breathing issues would be amended; the focus of treatment may be enlarged turbinates, nasal polyps, or a deviated septum. It is worth mentioning, however, that both functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty seek to optimize appearance and breathing.

Lastly, once the necessary corrections are made, sutures are placed to close the incisions and the nose is bandaged appropriately. A nasal splint may be applied to ensure the nose keeps its new shape.

Even though rhinoplasty has been geared toward women for many years, male rhinoplasty has become more popular over the years. In males, special attention is made to improve the nose while maintaining the natural masculine features a male nose typically has.

RECOVERY AFTER RHINOPLASTY

A rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, so patients are typically able to go home the same day. Midface swelling and bruising are normal. It is very important to follow all instructions given by your surgeon, including medications, wound care, and follow-up appointments.

The sutures are removed during a follow-up appointment. In the interim, patients should keep their head elevated. Do not apply ice directly to the swelling, because it can reduce blood flow in the affected areas. The splint will be removed after about a week to ensure your nose heals into its new shape. It may take up to five weeks before you are allowed to wear eyeglasses again.

It will be important to avoid blowing your nose during your healing process unless absolutely necessary. When it is unavoidable, make sure to only blow very gently.

Take around one week off from work for your recovery process. As you are recovering, avoid playing sports and engaging in any other activities that would put your nose at risk for trauma. Wait for two to three weeks before you resume jogging or swimming.

Swelling and bruising typically go away over time. The full results of rhinoplasty will be visible after all swelling goes down.

ASSOCIATED RISKS OF RHINOPLASTY

The average cost of rhinoplasty in the United States is approximately $5,125, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. However, this figure will vary depending on geographic location, the plastic surgeon, and your aesthetic goals.

At the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago, we will provide you with a detailed cost breakdown during the initial consultation. Most health insurance providers do not cover any of the costs associated with rhinoplasty, so if necessary, speak with your plastic surgeon about potential financing options.

HOW MUCH DOES A RHINOPLASTY COST IN CHICAGO

The cost of the surgery can vary on a number of factors. The overall price may be affected by anesthetic fees and various other surgical expenses depending on the complexity of the procedure. As a skilled Chicago rhinoplasty surgeon, Dr. Patel will meet with you in his office to discuss all options and pricing.

SCHEDULE A CONSULTATION

If you would like to learn more about rhinoplasty in Chicago, or you have questions about the procedure, give us a call to schedule a consultation with skilled board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Parit Patel.

We will make sure that you understand the entire procedure all the way through recovery, and we are always upfront about the associated costs and potential risks involved with plastic surgery. If you are looking for a more youthful and natural-looking appearance, contact the Plastic Surgery Clinic of Chicago today.