Rhinoplasty, commonly called a nose job, is a popular facial cosmetic procedure that requires careful consideration and planning. To ensure you are fully prepared for your procedure and have realistic expectations about your final result, it’s crucial to ask your plastic surgeon the right questions. Here are five top questions to ask during your rhinoplasty consultation.
1. Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Dr. Athré will perform a thorough physical examination and carefully listen to your specific goals for nose surgery. Using that information, he will provide an honest recommendation based on decades of professional experience performing rhinoplasties as to whether or not you could benefit from this procedure. If you are ever in a situation where a doctor is not willing to provide open and honest feedback, even if that may mean dissuading you from a procedure that is not a good fit, get a second opinion before moving forward.
2. Which Surgical Technique(s) Do You Recommend and Why?
There are various surgical options when it comes to planning your rhinoplasty, including open vs. closed rhinoplasty. The open technique involves a small incision on the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) and provides better visibility for Dr. Athré, while the closed technique involves incisions inside the nostrils and is typically quicker than the open technique.
During your consultation, you will have the opportunity to discuss these options with Dr. Athré and learn more about why he recommends specific techniques for you. Closely communicate with him to help design your rhinoplasty plan to best meet your goals and expectations.
3. Do You Offer Virtual Imaging?
Virtual imaging devices can be excellent tools to help you communicate with Dr. Athré your likes and dislikes and what you expect to get out of your nose surgery. Dr. Athré offers Vectra 3D imaging to his patients for this very reason.
However, it is important to keep in mind that virtual imaging is merely a tool to be used to get a better idea of what your results might look like, and realistic expectations for your results are a must. Virtual images do not 100% translate into an intricate surgical procedure like rhinoplasty, but they can be very helpful in the planning stages.
4. What Can I Do to Get the Best Results?
Your participation plays an important role in ensuring you get the most out of your rhinoplasty procedure. Following Dr. Athré’s pre- and post-surgery guidelines can significantly impact your results. These recommendations may include not smoking or using smokeless tobacco products, avoiding certain medications that can increase bleeding and following a healthy diet. Post-surgery care, such as keeping your head elevated, avoiding strenuous activities and attending all follow-up appointments, is equally important.
5. What Should I Expect During Rhinoplasty Recovery?
Being prepared for the recovery process before going into your procedure is essential. Dr. Athré will provide detailed recovery guidelines and help you understand each step of the process and what to expect along the way. No question is a bad one – ask away!
Ready to schedule your rhinoplasty consultation? Call our Houston Plastic Surgery practice at 281-557-3223 or contact us online to make your appointment today.
