A rhinoplasty consultation is an essential first step to understanding your options and setting realistic expectations. Here’s a quick guide on what to expect and how to prepare.

Defining Your Goals

Your surgeon will ask what changes you’d like, whether it’s refining the tip, adjusting the bridge, or addressing nostril shape. Sometimes it is hard to explain to a surgeon exactly what kind of change you want for your nose. Bringing some reference pictures definitely helps pointing out the likes and the dislikes. Make sure you select ones that have similar facial features and complexion to yours. Most of the times, the best reference pictures are your own pictures edited with any photo editing software, or even with hand-drawn lines.

Medical Assessment

To ensure safety, the surgeon will review your medical history, past surgeries, and any breathing issues. This step helps them plan an effective and safe approach tailored to you.

Procedure Steps

• Accessing the Nose: The surgeon uses either an open (small external incision) or closed (internal incisions) approach.
• Reshaping: Bone and cartilage are adjusted to refine the bridge or tip, and sometimes additional cartilage is added for structure.
• Functional Improvements: Structural issues like a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates are corrected to improve airflow.
• Finishing Up: The surgeon checks for symmetry, then closes the incisions with dissolvable or fine sutures.

Recovery and Risks

Expect some swelling and bruising for a few weeks post-surgery, with full results emerging over several months. Your surgeon will discuss any potential risks, so you can make an informed decision.

Bring Your Questions

Prepare a list of questions about the procedure, recovery, and the surgeon’s experience. A good consultation should leave you confident and informed about the next steps.

A rhinoplasty consultation is your opportunity to align your aesthetic vision with the surgeon’s expertise, setting the foundation for a successful outcome.