The “nose job” was one of the earliest forms of modern cosmetic surgery. It’s now almost standard practice, for quite a large section of the population. The fact is that noses are an acquired taste, and some noses look better with a bit of work. Another fact, usually ignored by people knowing nothing or less about cosmetic surgery is that nose jobs are also part of corrective surgery, using nose reshaping to deal with significant medical issues.
Nose job issues and considerations
The nose takes up quite a lot of space on the average face. It’s an important organ, directly involved in oxygenation and what’s good for your nose is good for you. The nose contains a lot of sensitive organs and is a lot more delicate inside than it looks on the outside. That means nose jobs involve quite a lot of medical issues by definition.
“The look” issue is a major reason for nose jobs. Some people simply do not like the shape of their noses. Fair enough, you’d think, but for some reason the “common wisdom” of media images seems to always portray cosmetic surgery as some sort of vanity.
Think about it:
- If you don’t like your look, do you do something about it, yes or no? Most people do.
- Whose nose is it, anyway?
Cosmetic surgery of this type is really “corrective” surgery, to a large extent.
The real issues are a bit more complex:
- What needs doing? This is discussed in consultation, and you’ll find you have several options.
- What are the medical issues? In some cases there may be medical issues to address, and these need to be well understood.
- What do you need to know about the intended procedure? The surgeon will explain in detail what’s involved, and give you the information to consider all options.
You will find that your cosmetic surgeon will be able to explain the options very clearly, and provide you with any information you need. You can also speak to your doctor, if you’re worried about any issues or just want a second opinion.
The Procedures
Nose jobs vary, considerably. Most of the basic work is largely based on reshaping tissue, and in some cases nose enhancement work, dealing with the results of injuries or defects may be required.
There are a few basic issues involved in the procedures of which you need to be aware:
- Post-operative issues: Some pain, minor changes in facial muscle movements (changing the nose affects muscles around it) and other normal post operative effects are usually quite minor.
- Nose splint: A nose splint is used to ensure the work remains in position during the healing process.
- Infection: There is an established antibiotic procedure to deal with any possibility of infection after an operation.
- Post-operative checkups: The surgeon will want to ensure that the operation has been a success, and these checkups are the best practice.
- Breathing issues: These are quite rare, but may relate to a medical condition. It’s important to ensure the airways are fully functional, so if you experience any difficulties, you must contact your surgeon ASAP.
You’ll find that your nose job will deal with the original issues and there will usually be no problems at all. Talk to a cosmetic surgeon about your needs, and you will get the answers you need.
