Rhinoplasty, also known in medical terminology as nose aesthetic surgery, is a surgical procedure performed to align the nose with aesthetic norms and harmonize its appearance with the sensory organs located in other parts of the face, while positively enhancing a person’s self-confidence and body perception. Another objective at this point is to avoid impairing the nose’s natural functions during the process of achieving its new appearance, while also correcting any existing breathing problems.
Can Rhinoplasty Also Correct a Crooked Nose and Breathing Problems?
Septum deviation, commonly known as a crooked nose, is a condition that occurs when the bone and cartilage in the middle part of the nose are exposed to external factors from birth. Deviations that prevent or make breathing through the nose difficult, as well as excessive growths in structures called turbinates located on the lateral walls of the nasal passages, are also corrected during rhinoplasty surgery.
Are You a Suitable Candidate for Cosmetic Nose Surgery?
Characteristics of Suitable Candidates for Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty can be easily performed on individuals who are:
- Psychologically mature and balanced,
- Showing a noticeable nasal deformity at first glance,
- Experiencing breathing difficulties along with the deformity,
- Having realistic expectations for better appearance and improved breathing,
- Positive, optimistic, and gentle toward those around them.
A positive mindset also contributes to a faster recovery process.
Characteristics of Unsuitable Candidates for Rhinoplasty
The procedure may be challenging for individuals who:
- Have a very slight or barely noticeable nasal deformity,
- Obsessively exaggerate their nasal shape issues,
- Cannot fully explain other respiratory problems alongside nasal deformities,
- Are indecisive about undergoing the surgery,
- Have a narcissistic personality and always seek perfection,
- Have social or emotional relationship problems,
- Expect major lifestyle changes after surgery,
- Blame their appearance for personal problems,
- Have previously blamed doctors for prior operations,
- Exhibit skeptical behavior or indecision.
In these cases, following the surgeon’s instructions strictly can largely prevent complications during and after surgery.
Preoperative Considerations for Rhinoplasty
Before undergoing rhinoplasty, paying attention to several important points contributes to a successful surgical outcome and a faster recovery. If you have already scheduled a surgery date, adhering to these considerations will ensure a healthier process.
- Stop taking aspirin, certain vitamins, herbal products, homeopathic preparations, and other medications 15 days before and after surgery. Consult your doctor regarding any other medications you are currently using.
Preoperative Precautions
- Discuss all details of the surgery with the surgeon and anesthesiologist, and provide complete medical information. Potential issues during surgery should also be discussed.
- Avoid activities that cause fatigue or weakness. Ensure you are free from illnesses such as colds or flu and maintain overall good health.
- Aspirin, vitamins, homeopathic substances, and herbal products can cause significant bleeding during surgery and may interact with other medications, leading to complications. Stop non-essential supplements at least 15 days before surgery and inform your doctor of all medications you use.
- Inform your doctor about ongoing treatments for depression, hypertension, pain relief, or any other medication.
- Birth control pills should be discontinued at least 4 weeks before surgery due to increased risk of blood clots.
- Patients with a history of vascular disease or blood clots should clearly inform their doctor.
- Smoking and excessive weight negatively affect anesthesia, blood circulation in tissues, and wound healing. Smoking should be stopped 15 days before surgery, and overweight patients should lose some weight before reapplying for surgery.
- Ensure your mental and emotional state is stable. Psychological stress from boredom, work, or social issues can negatively impact surgery and recovery.
- Consume hydrating foods and natural fiber daily and avoid alcohol before surgery.
- Do not eat or drink anything, including water, at least 8 hours before the scheduled surgery time. Inform the surgical team of any essential medications you regularly take.
- If you experience symptoms like a cold, fever, rash, or other health issues right before surgery, inform your doctor immediately.
The Night Before Surgery
- Take a shower and rest for the evening.
- If your surgery is scheduled for the afternoon, stop eating and drinking from midnight.
The Morning of Surgery
- Take essential medications like blood pressure pills with your doctor’s approval.
- If surgery is in the afternoon and you are very hungry, you may have a light snack 6–8 hours beforehand.
- Remove contact lenses and leave accessories like earrings, hairpins, and necklaces at home.
- Wear comfortable clothes and shoes that are easy to remove. Avoid clothing that must be taken off over your head.
- Do not plan to drive home; arrange for a companion.
Supplements to Stop Before Surgery
Herbal and natural supplements are increasingly popular but may affect blood clotting or interact with medications during surgery. These should be discontinued at least 15 days prior:
- Blueberry (Vaccinium Myrtillus)
- Albanian Pepper (Capsicum Annum)
- Angelica (Angelica Sinensis)
- Echinacea (Echinacea Augustfolia)
- Feverfew (Tanacetum Parthenium)
- Fish Oil Capsules
- Garlic (Allium Sativum)
- Ginger (Zingiber Officinale)
- Ginkgo Biloba
- Ginseng (Panax ginseng, Panax quinquefolium)
- Hawthorn (Crataegus laevigata)
- Kava Kava (Piper methysticum)
- Licorice (Glycyrrhiza Glabra)
- Ephedra (Ma Huang, Ephedra sinica)
- Melatonin
- St. John’s Wort (Hypericum perforatum)
- Valerian (Valeriana Officinalis)
- Vitamin E
- Yohimbe (Corynanthe Yohimbe)
