With cosmetic surgery becoming increasingly popular, it is essential to understand the procedure you are opting for to ensure it is safe and suitable for your goals. If you are contemplating getting a rhinoplasty, knowing whether you are the right candidate can help you make an informed decision, avoid complications, and manage your expectations. Continue reading to find out more about if you might be a good candidate for rhinoplasty.
What is a Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure to reshape the nose and help improve your overall facial appearance. Some common issues that can be addressed with rhinoplasty include a nose that is too wide or big, a bump on the nose’s bridge, a deviated septum, a broken nose, or a drooping nose tip.
Do You Qualify for a Rhinoplasty?
Though most anyone can get a rhinoplasty, you must be a good candidate for the procedure to be successful. Below are some of the requirements you must meet to qualify for the procedure:
1. Good Health
Health is one of the most critical factors determining your suitability for a rhinoplasty. You must be in good health and be free from medical conditions like heart disease and lung conditions, such as pneumonia, that may threaten the success of your procedure. This is because certain illnesses, medications, or allergies may adversely react with anesthesia or medication used during the surgery. Also, if you have been taking medications, the side effects may linger and interfere with the process.
Inform your surgeon about any medications, supplements, allergies, or health issues you may have before the surgery. An excellent surgeon will examine your medical history and evaluate your health to ensure you are in good shape.
2. Realistic Expectations
Regardless of age, patients seeking rhinoplasty need to have realistic expectations about what they seek to achieve with the procedure. You can manage your expectations and get satisfactory results with a realistic and positive outlook. A qualified cosmetic surgeon will explain what is and is not possible with the procedure.
They will also provide information on what to expect during the treatment and recovery. But first, you have to know why you are getting the procedure. For example, while you can alter the shape of your nose, you may not get an identical nose to that of someone else as the treatment works by improving what you already have.
3. Age
The perfect candidate should have fully developed facial features. Usually, facial features are fully developed at about 18 years in females and 23 years in males. As such, younger teens may be unsuitable candidates for the surgery. Besides having developed facial features, the right candidate should have a good understanding of cosmetic surgery and exhibit emotional maturity.
4. Non-Smokers
You should be able to go for at least 12 weeks without nicotine to be eligible for rhinoplasty. You must stop smoking at least six weeks before and after the procedure. This is because nicotine increases your blood pressure which could affect your body’s response to anesthesia. Also, smoking after the procedure may slow down your recovery.
Conclusion
Before getting a rhinoplasty, your cosmetic surgeon will assess your situation to determine your eligibility for the procedure. It is crucial that you provide all the necessary information honestly to help ensure the surgery is free of complications and yields satisfactory results. If you are unhappy with the appearance or function of your nose, make sure to consult your trusted cosmetic surgeon to see if rhinoplasty is right for you.