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Rhinoplasty Risks: What Should I Be Aware Of?

Rhinoplasty is surgery and with that comes the potential for some risk. As you prepare for your rhinoplasty surgery, it is important to understand the risks you face so you can make an informed decision about your procedure. Many of the risks can be eliminated or greatly reduced by taking a few precautions before surgery.

What Are the Risks of Rhinoplasty?

All surgical procedures carry risk. Some people react negatively to anesthesia. Some patients have a difficult time healing after surgery. Dr. Sajjadian will carefully explain the risks of surgery in general and the risks that are specific to rhinoplasty including:

  • Changes in Skin Sensation: Sometimes rhinoplasty causes changes in your skin’s sensation. Some people experience long-term numbness or pain. Some changes in sensation are very normal right after surgery (it can take up to a year for normal feeling to return), but in some cases, these changes can last much longer.
  • Difficulty Breathing: Rhinoplasty isn’t just a cosmetic procedure. The end goal is a nose that both looks great and functions well.
Breathing difficulties are more common after ethnic rhinoplasty, unless you choose a surgeon highly skilled in the procedure.
  • Unsatisfactory Appearance: Clear communication is one of the best ways to ensure that you’ll love the look for your new nose. Show your surgeon noses that you like and talk with them about the results they expect for you. When you go into surgery with realistic expectations and have worked closely with your surgeon to determine preferences, you can reduce the risk of not liking your new nose. If you do need a revision rhinoplasty, you’ll need to wait at least a year after your first surgery. Once again, the choice of surgeon is essential.
  • Skin Discoloration: Scarring and discoloration can occur after surgery. Different types of rhinoplasty have different levels of risk for this complication. Talk with your surgeon about the risk and about ways to minimize it.
  • Need for Additional Surgery: Some patients need additional surgeries to create the optimal result for their rhinoplasty. Additional surgeries may also be needed to fix problems that arise from the first surgery.
  • Minimizing Your Risk

    We’ve talked about some ways to reduce your risk of several rhinoplasty complications. The most important thing you can do is choose your surgeon carefully. Find a board certified surgeon. Choose a doctor that is highly experienced in the type of surgery you’re going to receive. Read patient reviews and testimonials. While there is some risk with every surgeon, you can greatly reduce the potential for complications with this one choice.

    Dr. Sajjadian is a triple board certified surgeon by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, the American Board of Otolaryngology, as well as the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. He is especially passionate about rhinoplasty and ethnic rhinoplasty and is well known for this work on noses across the country and around the world.

    Give us a call today and schedule your rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Sajjadian.