Rhinoplasty (a.k.a., cosmetic nose surgery) is one of the most popular procedures performed at Enhance® Medical Center. Charles S. Lee, MD, has earned the respect of many for his artistic eye and attention to detail with his rhinoplasty cases.
Dr. Lee meets prospective rhinoplasty candidates nearly every day, and finds that they often have the same kinds of questions about the procedure. Read on for the answers to the most common questions about rhinoplasty.
How do I know if I’m a good candidate for rhinoplasty?
You may be a candidate if your goal is to:
- Change the size, shape, angle or symmetry of your nose
- Treat a bump, hump or dip on the bridge of your nose
- Improve the appearance of your nasal tip or nostrils
- Treat a structural abnormality that interferes with your breathing
- Repair your nose after an accident or trauma
The best way to determine that you’re a good candidate for rhinoplasty is to have an in-person consultation with Dr. Lee.
Does getting a rhinoplasty hurt?
Rhinoplasty is performed under anesthesia so you cannot feel anything during the procedure. During your initial recovery, you might have mild discomfort that can be controlled by taking prescription pain medication.
What can I really expect during recovery?
After surgery, you can expect some bruising, swelling and mild discomfort. You will wear a splint for about a week and should keep your head elevated at all times to minimize swelling.
Dr. Lee will clear you to go to back to work and restart your exercise routine when he feels you are ready. Most patients resume work about a week after surgery and gentle exercise about three weeks after surgery.
What is the difference between an open and a closed rhinoplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty is performed through incisions made inside the nostrils; there are no external incisions and therefore no chance of external scarring. Open rhinoplasty is performed through incisions inside the nostrils and along the strip of skin separating the nostrils (called the columella). Because of the location of the columella incision, there is a slight risk of scarring — although Dr. Lee plans the incision very carefully to minimize visible scarring.
The approach recommended in your case depends on what you hope to achieve from surgery and how extensive the surgical modifications are.
Will my insurance cover the cost of rhinoplasty?
Generally speaking, health insurance does not cover rhinoplasty procedures performed for cosmetic (i.e., elective) reasons. Insurance may cover part or all of a procedure performed for medical or health reasons — i.e., correcting a structural abnormality to improve breathing function.
Schedule a Rhinoplasty Consultation
If you are interested in discussing your rhinoplasty options with Dr. Lee, we invite you to schedule a consultation at Enhance® Medical Center. Call or email us today to request an appointment.
