Important Topics to Discuss at Your Rhinoplasty Consultation

Rhinoplasty has become one of the most common cosmetic surgeries of the modern age. By reshaping the structure and proportions of your nose, this procedure changes your appearance to give you the facial aesthetics you’ve always wanted. The surgery can even sometimes be used to correct other problems, such as breathing impairment and damage caused by an injury.

If you’re considering rhinoplasty as an option, there are several things that you should give thoughtful consideration to. The search for the right surgeon to help you achieve your goals can be overwhelming at times, but by knowing what to look for and which questions to ask, you’ll be able to make the most informed choice.

Make sure to go over these topics with the doctor you consult with.

Certifications, Training, and Experience

Most surgeons will happily tell you about their education and experience in the field. To make sure that the surgeon’s experience is what you’re looking for, though, it’s important to gather as much information as you can.

What kind of certifications and ongoing training have they received? There are several certifications that plastic surgeons can acquire, as well as a variety of techniques and methods that are continuously evolving. Perform independent research on these credentials after your consultation to better familiarize yourself with your surgeon’s education and specialties.

Experience is also a vital factor in which doctor you choose — not only experience with plastic surgery as a whole but specifically their experience in rhinoplasty. Many plastic surgeons, rather than offering every cosmetic procedure available, focus on a small number of surgeries as their specialization. A surgeon whose primary focus is breast augmentation may not be the best fit for your goals.

Ask your surgeon how many years they’ve been performing nose jobs, and how many they’ve completed in that time. Be as specific as you like; how many have they performed that month? That week? What would they say their success rate is? How many patients have been satisfied with their rhinoplasty and how many have required revisions?

Discuss Your Goals

One of the most important factors in finding the right surgeon is being clear about your goals. It’s vital that your doctor knows what you want, and that you’re open with any information that may be asked of you. Any recent surgeries, medications, and use of drugs, alcohol, or tobacco are disclosed to your doctor to avoid any potential complications.

This can also be a chance to ensure that your expectations are realistic. Your goals may not be likely or even possible to achieve. Have a frank discussion about these subjects and adjust your expectations before committing to the procedure.

Techniques Used

There are a variety of techniques and methods used in rhinoplasty, depending on your specific needs and the surgeon’s preference. Do they use minimally-invasive techniques to reduce the chance of noticeable scarring? Do they perform closed rhinoplasty – a method in which incisions are only made on the inside of the nose – or open – where an incision is made on the soft tissue between nostrils?

Some noses are better suited to one technique or the other. Be sure to ask your surgeon which would work best for yours, and which method they use most often.

Testimonials, Before-and-After Photos

Don’t settle for a doctor’s word alone. Their work should speak for itself through satisfied customers and beautiful results.

Ask to see the testimonials of previous patients, as well as before-and-after pictures of successful procedures. These should give you a better idea of the surgeon’s skills and the kind of results they can produce. If a friend referred you to a doctor, they’ve been to before, be sure to ask them about the process and their experience.

Cost

The cost of the surgery can be a critical factor when deciding on the right plastic surgeon. Make sure to discuss the exact cost of the procedure and exactly what that cost includes. Are lab work and post-op checkups covered in the quote, or will they cost extra? If you’re unsatisfied with the results, will the surgeon perform revisions for free or at a discounted price? Is financing a possibility? Make sure that the doctor you choose is the right fit for you and your budget.

To learn more about rhinoplasty, contact our office today to schedule a consultation.