Rhinoplasty Surgery in Sydney - Getting A Nose Job!

A rhinoplasty, colloquially known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure to cosmetically change the way the nose looks. It is done to make the nose larger or smaller, change the angle, remove a bump or indentation or change the nose tip. A rhinoplasty is also performed to correct a birth deformity or structural problems that causes congestion and breathing problems. Finally the procedure may be performed in cases of traumatic injury causing deformity.

Likely candidates for a rhinoplasty include those who are unhappy with the shape or size of their nose. Whether or not to undergo a nose job is an entirely subjective decision ideally made with the consultation with a competent plastic surgeon.

Choosing a Rhinoplasty Surgeon

In choosing a surgeon for your rhinoplasty the best method is to find a former patient who underwent the procedure and find out if he or she was would recommend the procedure and/or the surgeon. There is a great disparity in the price of the procedure and a lower price may suggest a lesser competent surgeon (see below). It is well to check the background of the physician in such areas as: Is he/she certified by the appropriate surgical bodies, his/her reputation in the community, has he/she published peer review articles, has the physician ever been successfully sued for malpractice and is the prospective surgeon someone whom you can like and trust. It is a good idea to visit the surgeon’s facility to evaluate the overall cleanliness and professionalism of the facility. Also become familiar with the surgeon’s support staff.

Sydney Rhinoplasty Surgeons

The Sydney area has many competent surgeons to choose from. Rather than relying on Yellow Pages or newspaper advertisements it is usually best to secure a recommendation from a local board or organization of cosmetic surgeons, such as the Australian Society Of Plastic Surgeons. Experience is a definite plus so choose a surgeon who has been in practice for an extended period of time (10 years). Review the internet sites of cosmetic surgeons in the area. Many have valuable information on their sites. You can even chat with a professional if you have questions. Some sites provide before and after pictures.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

As to what you can expect with the surgery itself your rhinoplasty procedure will begin with an in-depth and private consultation with the cosmetic surgeon. You will discuss with the surgeon the realistic and attainable expectations for the nose job. This is also an opportunity for you to get to know your surgeon, his past works and success stories. Look at before and after pictures he will willingly show you. During the consultation discuss in detail the surgeon’s opinions regarding the condition of your existing nose and the approaches that will be done to achieve your desired result. Don’t hesitate to get a second opinion if you feel this is necessary. Remember it is your nose we are dealing with and only you know if you feel comfortable with the procedures outlined. If you are given a sheet to sign with all the risks disclosed read it carefully before signing. Make sure you and the surgeon are on the “same page” as to what you want.

Your rhinoplasty procedure will be performed under a type of general anesthesia called twilight anesthesia. This means that you will be sedated, but not unconscious, for the entire duration of the procedure and you will feel no pain. The whole procedure will take between 2 to 4 hours to perform. After the surgery expect that you will experience swelling on your nose.. There is usually very little pain, but you may feel a sensation tightness and pressure on your nose because of the swelling. You may also experience profuse nasal bleeding.

Possible Complications

As to possible complications, rhinoplasty is arguably the most demanding of all facial surgical operations. Each case has its own challenges. Reduction-rhinoplasty can cause post-operative complications. There may be problems breathing, scars and loss of sensation including the feeling of a blocked nose, skin atrophy, accumulation of fibers, skin relaxation, cysts and numbness caused by ointment material. Infections sometimes cause life-threatening (toxic-shock-syndrome). You must follow your physicians instructions regarding post-operative activity. After operation complications are common and result in re-do operations in 5-15% of cases.

Cost of Rhinoplasty Procedures and Insurance Cover

The costs of cosmetic surgeries of the nose vary widely. The cost may reflect the quality of the surgeon but most often it is the type of procedure that dictates cost. In reviewing plastic surgeons in Sydney we find the cost may vary from AU$6500 - AU$12000. A more informative breakdown is: AU$6500 - AU$13500 for a rhinoplasty with a day-stay or overnight-stay procedure depending on how much needs to be changed. As a general rule insurance, private or government, does not cover cosmetic surgery including rhinoplasty. Some reconstruction of cosmetic defects following an accident may be covered under certain plans, and repair of certain birth defects are often covered as well. There also may be partial coverage available for any portion of an operation that is not considered cosmetic such as a deviated septum. However, the part of the surgery which seeks to correct cosmetic aspects of the appearance of the nose would not be covered. It is advisable to discuss your procedure with the surgeon or insurance company if you think any part may be covered.

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