Common Questions About Rhinoplasty

A rhinoplasty is one of the more popular cosmetic operations of all times. The nose is a prominent feature on the human face. Its proportion, size, shape and alignment with other facial features can greatly affect whether a person is considered to be attractive or not.

The nasal structure is directly linked to breathing which keeps us alive and is smack dab in the middle of the face in public view. All in all, it is an important body part. Here are some common questions about the surgery which is affectionately called the "nose job."

- What is the youngest age an individual can have this operation performed? Cosmetic surgeons agree that it is crucial for a patient to be finished growing before permanently altering a body part. A surgical change done too early can leave a patient needing more alterations when they've reached physical maturity. For males, facial structures have usually finished developing by the age of seventeen. For females, it is earlier. Teen girls as young as fifteen or sixteen years of age are able to go under the scalpel to change the appearance of their nose.

- Are there non-surgical ways to change one's nasal structures? There are ways to alter the region and with mixed results. If lumps and dips are a problem, dermatological fillers may do the trick to achieve smoothness. One such filler is composed of calcium hydroxylpatite and is injected into the area. This product may last up to two years before being reabsorbed by the body.

- Will health insurance cover the cost of the procedure? Medical insurance will not usually cover elective procedures. Most plastic surgery is considered "elective" because the patient chooses to have it rather than it being a medical necessity for life. If a person has difficulty breathing, however, due to a condition called a deviated septum, the insurance company may indeed step in to cover much of the operation. This would be the exception to the rule.

- How much does a rhinoplasty cost? The total cost of the procedure will depend on several things. The region of the world or country where the operation is being performed is one factor. Who the doctor is doing the surgery is another. Exactly how much work needs to be done in order to transform the nose is yet another.

A patient needs to remember to add surgeon fees, operating room costs and the anesthesiologist bill all together in order to come up with the total price tag. A typical price range may be anywhere from $4,000 to $10,000. Going for an initial consultation with plastic surgeons in the area is the best way to obtain a realistic estimate.

- What's the difference between a closed and open operation? A closed method entails all work being done by the doctor through the nostrils. An open procedure entails an incision directly below the nostrils in order to give the doc free access to the region.

If a patient is interested in having a rhinoplasty performed, he or she should make an appointment with a reputable plastic surgeon. The doctor should be able to answer further questions about specifics.