How to Prepare for Rhinoplasty
If you have set up a rhinoplasty appointment, you may need to prepare before the actual day. Your surgeon will be ready on their part for a positive outcome after the procedure. Here is what you need to know going into the procedure.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a nose surgery done by a professional for various reasons, both medical and cosmetic. The procedure needs scheduling in advance for adequate preparation. The technique used will depend on the goal of the surgery, but there are two methods - open and closed rhinoplasty.
An open rhinoplasty entails your surgeon gaining access to the nose for surgery. They do so by making an incision between your nostrils. A closed rhinoplasty leaves no scars visible as your surgeon will make the incisions inside your nose.
Why to Get a Rhinoplasty
There are different reasons why you may get nose surgery. Below are some:
Aesthetic purposes, for changing the nose shape or giving your face symmetry or balance
Correcting defects from birth
To treat breathing problems
To reconstruct a broken nose
Traumatic injuries, burns, or cancer treatments that impact the function or appearance of your nose
Deviated septum
What to Do One Week Before the Surgery
It is vital to be well-rested to give your body energy and strength for healing after the procedure. Doing so will also make your recovery comfortable.
Your skin should remain clear and clean before the procedure. Use a gentle cleanser to wash your face every morning and evening before bed. You can also exfoliate it gently every day to remove any dead skin you may have.
Ideally, drink plenty of water in the days before your surgery to keep your body hydrated. It is also vital to get someone to drive you back home. Have your doctor tell you what medications and at-home treatments you will need after surgery to have them ready. Make your life easier by preparing your meals before the procedure day so that you can rest throughout your recovery.
Consult your doctor if you need clarification about anything and follow all their instructions.
What You Should Avoid Before the Surgery
Smoking – Ideally, you should quit smoking for your general health. Smoking leading to surgery can constrict your blood vessels. As a result, the flow of oxygen reduces, and your chances of scarring and skin loss increase. You can also have poor reactions to anesthesia, infection, or bleeding problems
Drinking – Alcohol can dehydrate your body and affect your immune system. As a result, you may have a poor recovery. Therefore, avoid drinking in the days nearing your surgery
Using topical creams – Consult your doctor to know what to use on your face. In the meantime, keep your face clean
Sun exposure – Avoid tanning beds or being out in the sun. UV light can affect your healing, as well as damage your skin
Some medications – Consult your doctor about them to avoid reactions or complications during surgery
One Day Before the Surgery
Your doctor will instruct you to fast after midnight before your surgery for safety reasons. You can drink plenty of water before your fasting time to allow your body to stay healthy and feel good.
Do not wear any makeup or cosmetics before the surgery. Keep your face clean by washing it with a gentle cleanser. It is also vital to wear comfortable clothes that you can wear back after the procedure without affecting the nose.
For more information about rhinoplasty and why you may need it, contact Aesthetic Surgical Associates at our office in Metairie, Louisiana. You can call us at 504-226-8200 to book an appointment today.
