Rhinoplasty Side Effects: A Long-Term Perspective
Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is one of the most common types of plastic surgery performed worldwide. It involves changing the shape or size of the nose or repairing it after an injury. While it can provide significant cosmetic or functional improvements, it is crucial to understand the potential long-term side effects of rhinoplasty.
Many people experience immediate short-term effects post-surgery, like swelling, bruising, pain, and bleeding. However, it’s the long-term side effects that can often be overlooked. Listed below are some of the significant long-term side effects associated with rhinoplasty.
Numbness
One of the most frequently reported long-term effects of rhinoplasty is numbness or a lack of sensation at the tip or the base of the nose. This can happen due to the disruption of nerves during the surgery and can last a few months to a few years.
Skin Changes
Prolonged swelling post-rhinoplasty can lead to skin changes around the nose, potentially causing the skin to become thicker and oilier. In some cases, it can also cause ‘spider veins’ or tiny blood vessels to break and show on the skin’s surface.
Nasal Obstruction
Long-term nasal obstruction is another complication of rhinoplasty. Essentially, the patient may experience difficulty breathing through the nose. This can occur due to over-resection of nasal structures during surgery or internal scarring.
Change in Sense of Smell
Some patients have noted a permanent change or loss of their sense of smell following rhinoplasty. Such effects could be due to potential damage to the olfactory nerve endings in the high part of the nasal cavity.
Despite these potential long-term side effects, it’s worth noting that for most, a rhinoplasty ends up with good results so long as thorough research and planning are done and a highly-skilled surgeon carries out the procedure. In recent times, a growing number of people have been opting for non-surgical rhinoplasty due to the perceived lower risk of long-term side effects. One such technique is the non surgical rhinoplasty in LA, which involves injecting dermal fillers to alter the nose’s appearance temporarily.
As with any surgical or non-surgical procedure, the key to minimising the risk of side effects and complications is thorough initial consultation, discussing all potential risks, preperation, and post-care with a skilled medical professional. This care and open communication can help set realistic expectations and prepare the patient for any potential long term side effects of rhinoplasty. Importantly, it allows for quick identification and management of any post-procedure complications to mitigate more serious long-term effects.
In conclusion, rhinoplasty, like any other surgery, comes with its own set of potential long-term side effects. However, it can be a life-changing procedure for many, significantly improving their quality of life and confidence. Therefore, understanding the risks and benefits of this procedure can help individuals make well-informed decisions about their health and appearance. Always consult with a board-certified surgeon and discuss the pros and cons meticulously to mitigate any adverse long-term side effects.