People choose to have rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, for a variety of reasons such as medical necessity due to breathing difficulty or damage from trauma, as well as for cosmetic reasons. Dr. David Whiteman knows rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly pursued plastic surgery procedures, but he also recognizes it’s one of the most complex, especially among different ethnicities because of differences in cartilage texture. With almost 20 years of plastic surgery experience and a history of successful ethnic rhinoplasty results, Dr. Whiteman uses his knowledge of human physiology to produce rhinoplasty results that are both aesthetically pleasing and functional. No matter what the initial reason is for pursuing surgery, pre- and post-operative care is important for minimizing complications and optimizing rhinoplasty results. An important part of pre-operative care includes planning for your procedure.
When you decide to have plastic surgery, it is important to find a board certified plastic surgeon who makes you feel comfortable. During your consultation, it’s important to discuss the reasons you’re pursuing plastic surgery as well as your medical history, surgical concerns, and desired results. Dr. Whiteman will take this time to discuss the ins and outs of your procedure and pre- and post-op care such as avoiding certain medications, arranging for help the day of your surgery, and stopping smoking.
There are certain medications that could increase the chance of surgical complications. For two weeks before your procedure, avoid blood-thinning medications such as ibuprofen (Advil, Aleve, etc.), aspirin or aspirin containing medicines. Dr. Whiteman will ask you for a list of all of the medications you are taking including vitamins and supplements, but he will also give you a list of medications that should be avoided before and following surgery to minimize bruising, swelling, and other complications. It’s also important to arrange a ride home from your surgery and for help during your recovery to increase comfort. It is important to note that smoking can hinder recovery by slowing the healing process after surgery.
Depending on the patient’s unique needs, Dr. Whiteman may use a closed or open technique during rhinoplasty. During closed rhinoplasty, small incisions are made inside the nose. During an open rhinoplasty, small incisions are made inside the nose, and an additional incision is made to separate the nostrils. No matter what technique is used, he is sure to hide incisions within the natural folds of the nose in order to minimize scarring. Dr. Whiteman will also provide aftercare instructions such as proper wound care, diet, sleep, and medications that can help speed the healing process.
While it is important to find an experienced, board certified plastic surgeon for successful rhinoplasty results, it’s also important to do your part by following your surgeon’s instructions. If you are interested in nose surgery or another procedure Dr. Whiteman performs, schedule a consultation today. Be sure to connect with him on Facebook, Twitter, and Google+ for plastic surgery news.