Everything You Need to Know About Getting a Rhinoplasty
A nose job (rhinoplasty) is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries of all time. If you’re also considering reshaping your nose, it’s essential to understand what the process entails. This overview breaks down the typical treatment plan at the Younger Facial Surgery Centre to give you a detailed idea of what to expect before, during and after rhinoplasty surgery.
The Consultation
Your rhinoplasty begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr Younger, a board-certified facial plastic surgeon with extensive experience performing nasal surgeries for aesthetic and medical reasons. During this 30-45 minute meeting, he will thoroughly assess your unique anatomy and determine the best surgical approach for your situation.
Dr Younger will also photograph all angles of your nose to serve as a reference point. He can then manipulate these images using advanced imaging software to give you a realistic preview of potential results. This is your opportunity to discuss goals and expectations in detail.
In addition to the physical examination, Dr. Younger will ask about your complete medical history to ensure your body is prepared for surgery. He’ll inquire about previous nose surgeries, breathing difficulties, allergies, medications and other relevant health factors. Don’t be surprised when asked about your motivations for seeking rhinoplasty; instead, use this prompt to ask further questions about the procedure, recovery, risks, and outcomes.
Afterwards, you’ll review the surgical quote with the office manager, including the surgeon’s fee, anaesthesia costs and facility charges. You’ll also discuss scheduling options, payment plans, financing and insurance coverage (if applicable). A deposit is required to secure your desired surgery date, with the remaining balance due one month before the procedure.
Preparation
If Dr. Younger determines you need any pre-surgery lab work, such as blood tests or an electrocardiogram (ECG), he will refer you to a trusted facility. This helps ensure you’re physically fit for the operation.
Approximately 1-2 weeks before surgery, a member of Dr. Younger’s staff will call you to review detailed pre and post-operative instructions. They’ll answer any lingering questions and ensure you feel fully prepared for the big day.
- Avoid alcohol consumption for at least 48 hours and aspirin or other blood-thinning medications for one week before surgery to minimize bleeding risk.
- Arrange for a responsible adult to drive you home after the procedure and stay with you for 24 hours to assist with your initial recovery needs.
- Set up a comfortable recovery area at home, ideally with extra pillows to keep your head elevated and easy access to food, water, entertainment and any necessary supplies.
- Fill prescriptions for pain medication and antibiotics beforehand, so you have them ready when needed.
- Take a shower the evening before or morning of surgery to ensure your skin is clean and free of products.
- Don’t wear makeup, jewellery, nail polish or contact lenses on the day of surgery.
- Opt for comfortable, loose-fitting clothing that buttons or zips up the front to avoid pulling anything over your face.
The Procedure
Rhinoplasties are performed under general anaesthesia, which means you’ll be fully asleep and pain-free during the 1-2 hour operation. Dr Younger will make incisions either inside your nostrils (closed technique) or across the columella, the strip of skin between your nostrils (open technique), depending on the complexity of your case and desired changes.
Through these incisions, he will carefully reshape the bone and cartilage of your nose, removing any bumps or humps, adjusting the angle or tip and altering the size as needed to achieve a more balanced, harmonious appearance that complements your unique facial features. He can also correct these functional concerns if you have a deviated septum or other breathing issues.
Once the necessary modifications have been made, Dr Younger will close the incisions with fine sutures and place a splint over your nose to support and protect it as it heals. You may also have soft splints or packing inside your nostrils to provide additional stability and absorb drainage.
After spending about an hour in the recovery room waking up from the anaesthesia, you’ll be cleared to head home and rest for the remainder of the day under the watchful eye of your designated caregiver. It’s crucial to closely follow your post-op care instructions for smooth recovery and the best possible results.
Recovery
As with any surgery, discomfort, swelling, bruising and congestion are expected after a rhinoplasty. Your nose may feel stuffy, and you’ll likely have some blood-tinged drainage in the first week. This is normal and can be gently dabbed away with soft tissues or gauze.
Always keep your head elevated, even while sleeping, to minimize swelling and promote proper healing. Use extra pillows or a recliner to maintain a 30-45 degree angle. You’ll also want to first stick to soft, easily digestible foods and brush your teeth very carefully to avoid bumping your sensitive nose.
Dr Younger will prescribe pain medication to keep you comfortable and antibiotics to prevent infection. Be sure to take these as directed and avoid over-the-counter pain relievers like ibuprofen or aspirin, which increase your bleeding risk.
Apply cold compresses or ice packs to your cheeks (not directly on your nose) for the first 48 hours to help reduce swelling. After that, switch to warm compresses to promote circulation.
- Avoid blowing your nose for at least two weeks – if you must sneeze, do so with your mouth open.
- Keep the splint dry, and don’t disturb any packing or stitches.
- Clean the nostrils carefully with Q-tips dipped in hydrogen peroxide twice daily.
- Apply the prescribed antibiotic ointment to the incisions and inside the nostrils as instructed.
- Limit physical activity and avoid anything strenuous (bending, lifting, exercising) for several weeks to prevent complications.
- Avoid swimming or submerging your nose in water for at least four weeks.
- If you wear glasses, make sure they don’t rest on the bridge of your nose for the first month.
- Use a high SPF sunscreen and limit sun exposure, which can affect skin pigmentation as you heal.
- Contact Dr. Younger’s office immediately if you develop a fever over 101 F, excessive pain or vision changes.
Dr. Younger and his compassionate staff will closely monitor your healing process through a series of post-operative visits. The first one is typically 5-7 days after surgery to remove the splint and any external stitches. You’ll already notice some positive changes by this point, but it’s important to remember that total healing takes time.
Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities within 1-2 weeks, but residual swelling can last several months. Dr Younger will advise you on the best way to camouflage any bruising with makeup and offer tips for managing nasal dryness or irritation, such as using a humidifier and gently irrigating the nostrils with saline spray.
While you’ll see some immediate improvement, it takes 6-12 months for your nose to settle into its new shape fully. Some subtle refinements may even continue for up to a year as the tissues soften and contract.
The decision to undergo a rhinoplasty is highly personal and should be made after careful consideration and research. By selecting a reputable, board-certified facial plastic surgeon like Dr Younger and following all the pre and post-operative guidelines, you can maximize your chances of a safe, successful outcome that boosts both your appearance and self-confidence. If you’ve always felt dissatisfied with your nose’s size, shape or function, it may be time to take the first step and schedule a consultation to explore your options.
Are You Ready to Transform Your Nose?
If you’re unhappy with the appearance or function of your nose, a rhinoplasty may be the solution you’ve been seeking. Dr. Ritchie Younger and his talented team at the Younger Facial Surgery Centre have helped countless patients achieve their dream noses and newfound confidence.
With his years of experience, artistic eye and advanced techniques, Dr. Younger can help you achieve the natural-looking, balanced results you deserve. Whether you want to refine the tip, remove a bump, narrow the bridge or correct a deviated septum, he has the skill and expertise to deliver exceptional outcomes.
Don’t wait another moment to start your transformative journey. Call the Younger Facial Surgery Centre at (604) 738-3223 or click here to request your consultation online. We look forward to helping you discover a more confident, radiant version of yourself!
