Jennifer Aniston, Chloe Kardashian and Lady Gaga are just some of the big celebrities who’ve openly admitted to undergoing rhinoplasty surgery to change their shape of their nose. With social media making cosmetic procedures much more popular and accepted, you might be considering doing the same. Read on and discover why rhinoplasty might be for you and explore what to look out for before taking the next step.
We’ll help you feel informed, confident and in control of your journey before you make that appointment.
Things to Consider Before Your Rhinoplasty
Before booking anything, it’s worth taking a step back and really understanding why you want the surgery — and what the journey involves from start to finish. Whether you’re looking to refine a bump, correct asymmetry, or improve breathing, make sure the motivation comes from personal desire rather than external pressure.
Make Sure You Have Realistic Goals
A great surgeon can enhance your natural features, but rhinoplasty isn’t designed to replicate someone else’s nose. Factors such as your bone structure, cartilage, and skin thickness all influence what’s achievable, so have this in mind when you’re talking through your expectations with your London rhinoplasty surgeon.
Psychological Readiness
Post-surgery recovery can be an emotional rollercoaster. Swelling, bruising and temporary self-doubt are all completely normal. Final results can take up to a year to fully develop, so patience and a stable mindset are essential. Make sure your calendar is clear in the weeks after your surgery is planned so you recover properly.
Your Age
If you’re looking into rhinoplasty before your mid 20s, make sure your facial growth is complete. Generally, that’s around 15 – 6 for girls and 17 – 18 for boys. This helps ensure long-lasting, natural results.
Choosing a Surgeon and Facility
Finding the right surgeon is arguably the most important part of your entire rhinoplasty journey — and London gives you plenty of choice. Look for a board-certified plastic or facial plastic surgeon who regularly performs rhinoplasty. In the UK, checking GMC registration and membership with reputable associations is a must.
Don’t be afraid to book multiple consultations – this is your face and you need to feel totally at ease before surgery. Ask to see before-and-after photographs (not just the best ones,) but a variety of real results. This’ll help you understand the surgeon’s style and whether it aligns with yours.
Clear Communication
A good surgeon will listen carefully and offer honest you feedback. Many use imaging software to show what realistic results could look like which is a great tool for visualising how it will look post-surgery. A collaborative approach ensures you both share the same vision.
Accredited Facilities Your procedure should take place in a fully accredited surgical facility or hospital, offering the highest safety and hygiene standards.
Medical and Health Factors
Your overall health plays a big role in your rhinoplasty experience – from surgery day to long-term recovery.
Rhinoplasty is safest when you’re in good physical condition. Your surgeon will assess whether you’re fit for the procedure, and always be honest with them about your medical history.
There are some medications and supplements you’ll need to stop taking in the couple of weeks before your surgery such as ibuprofen and aspirin, as well as most herbal supplements as they can increase bleeding risk. Smoking and vaping should be stopped at least one month before.
Planning and Recovery
Your recovery period is just as important as the surgery itself and good planning makes the process far smoother. Make sure you book between one and two weeks to recover without work or social commitments. It can be a bumpy road and you’ll be told to expect swelling, congestion and tenderness in the early days. It’s also wise to have someone to look after you – especially in the first 24 hours. Make sure you’ve got a comfortable recovery space, pillows, entertainment and soft foods at hand.
Your surgeon will give you detailed post-operative instructions. Following these to the letter helps reduce complications and ensures the best possible long-term outcome.