There are many reasons that you may be considering reconstructive rhinoplasty in New Jersey. This includes congenital issues, trauma, infection, tumors, disease and other abnormalities. Candidates for reconstructive rhinoplasty often suffer from breathing problems or other nasal issues due to a deformity in the nasal structure.
No matter the reason for your surgery, it is important to understand reconstructive rhinoplasty risks and separate them from the myths that you may have heard about the procedure.
Reconstructive Rhinoplasty Risks
All surgical procedures come with some risks. It is up to you to decide if the possible reconstructive rhinoplasty risks are worth the benefits. Ask your surgeon about any risks that reconstructive rhinoplasty may pose. A good plastic surgeon will always consider the possible risks and make a recommendation based on your individual health condition.
Some possible risks include:
- Anesthesia-related issues
- Excess bleeding
- Infection
- Issues with incisions healing
- Septal perforation (a hole or opening in the septum)
- Septal Hematoma (collection of blood in septal space)
- Loss or decrease in your sense of smell
- Numbness in gums or teeth
The risks and results of reconstructive rhinoplasty depend on the individual health condition of the specific patient. You may experience none or some of these risks depending on your body’s ability to heal.
Myths of Reconstructive Rhinoplasty
There is a lot of confusion about reconstructive rhinoplasty. Here are some facts to help set things straight and help you to better understand the procedure.
- Myth: Reconstructive rhinoplasty is the same as revision rhinoplasty.
Fact: Reconstructive rhinoplasty is performed due to structural issues with the nose, resulting from various causes whereas revision rhinoplasty is done to correct the results of a previous procedure.
- Myth: Reconstructive rhinoplasty will change the appearance of your nose.
Fact: In some cases, reconstructive rhinoplasty may change the appearance of your nose, but it is not the primary function of many reconstructive procedures. The procedure may or may not change the appearance of the nose. Much depends on whether the need for reconstruction is internal or external.
- Myth: You need multiple procedures to correct structural issues.
Fact: Although some reconstructive rhinoplasty procedures may require multiple surgeries, most are done in one session. Your surgeon will tell you what to expect from your outcome and whether or not more procedures are required. Oftentimes, both reconstructive and cosmetic procedures can be performed simultaneously.
Understanding the purpose of reconstructive rhinoplasty can help you separate fact from fiction, as can asking your surgeon any questions and concerns that you may have.
What to Expect Before, During and After Reconstructive Rhinoplasty
The first step to a reconstructive rhinoplasty is your consultation. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will ask a lot of questions about your general health as well as the circumstances surrounding your need for reconstructive rhinoplasty. Your surgeon will also perform a physical exam to gain a better understanding of your needs and go over reconstructive rhinoplasty risks as well as a possible outcome.
During a reconstructive rhinoplasty procedure, you will be anesthetized and your surgeon will make an incision. Your surgeon will then make any necessary corrections, such as repairing a deviated septum, removing a tumor or correcting structural issues. Once the corrections have been made, the incision will be closed. Many patients may opt not only for reconstruction but also for cosmetic changes. These cosmetic changes may be completed at the same time to avoid undergoing two procedures. Your nose will then be stabilized with splints or packing as well as internal stitches.
Many reconstructive rhinoplasty procedures are completed in an outpatient setting. You will be able to go home the same day you undergo surgery. Prior to the surgery, you will receive a list of care instructions. Following these instructions ensures a better outcome and helps to minimize risks. The initial swelling will go down over a period of a few weeks but it often takes several months to fully heal after reconstructive rhinoplasty.
In successful procedures, once the swelling has gone down and healing has begun, you will notice a great improvement in your symptoms, including improved ability to breathe and reduced snoring. Because the healing process can take several months, you may also notice changes in the appearance of your nose, as well as continued improvement, over time.
Where to Find the Best Reconstructive Rhinoplasty Surgery in NJ
If you think that you may be a candidate for reconstructive rhinoplasty, it is important that you find a surgeon that can help you understand the current state of your nose as well as what you can expect in the future. There are reconstructive rhinoplasty risks to consider along with benefits and it is important that you completely understand them before agreeing to any procedures. Consulting with an experienced reconstructive rhinoplasty surgery expert is the first step on your path to better breathing.
Having realistic expectations about the function and appearance of your nose after reconstructive rhinoplasty can create a better outcome. Meeting with a qualified surgeon to go over your unique case is the first step toward the healing process. Make an appointment with Cohen/Winters rhinoplasty experts to find out about reconstructive rhinoplasty and learn more about the benefits and risks.
