What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, also known as “nose restructuring,” or a “nose job,”
is a surgical procedure usually performed to improve the functionality or shape
of the nose. Many of our nose surgery patients in Cape Girardeau, Sikeston and Jackson
have said that rhinoplasty has had a very positive effect on their lives. A beautiful
nose can often boost self-confidence.
Will I be able to see rhinoplasty before and after pictures?
During your consultation visit, your surgeon will show you rhinoplasty before and
after photos of patients who underwent a rhinoplasty procedure. You will be able
to see firsthand the difference the procedure made for these people.
What is the average cost of a rhinoplasty?
At our practice in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, the average cost of a rhinoplasty is
$5100. (Effective June 1, 2009) This includes operating room cost and anesthesia
services. There are situations where a rhinoplasty may be covered by your health
insurance. At the time of the consultation, we will make a decision whether this
is a medically indicated procedure or a cosmetic one. Your insurance may be billed
for the consultation if appropriate.
If the procedure is deemed cosmetic, the consultation charge is deducted from the
price of the procedure if you decide to schedule the surgery within 6 months. After
6 months, a new consultation may be scheduled to review any changes in your medical
history.
Will insurance cover any of my fees? If not, do you have financing available?
There is a possibility your health insurance could cover a rhinoplasty if there
is documented trauma to the nose resulting in a deformity or breathing difficulties.
A predetermination letter and photos will then be sent to your insurance to determine
coverage. If the deformity is not a result from trauma, the procedure will more
than likely be considered cosmetic.
Our Girardeau, MO office accepts several types of payment options. They are cash,
credit cards (Visa, Master Card, Discover and American Express), money order, cashier
checks and financing with an outside agency. If the procedure is deemed cosmetic,
it is not covered by commercial insurance and will need to be paid in full before
surgery. We require you make financing arrangements before surgery.
Does Heartland Plastic and Hand Surgery also work on the septum at the same time
of a rhinoplasty?
Yes, sometimes a septorhinoplasty is performed to help with the patient breathing
along with the appearance. Sometimes additional testing, such as a CT scan may be
ordered to determine if your insurance would cover the septum repair.
Do I have to stop smoking for a rhinoplasty procedure?
We would like for the patient to stop smoking 1 month before surgery and 1 month
after surgery. Nicotine in cigarettes decreases the blood supply to the skin and
blood supply is a very important factor to the healing process. We hope patients
can decrease their exposure not only to first hand but also to second hand smoke.
When is the best time to have rhinoplasty surgery?
You should make it a time when you can allow yourself time to heal. After rhinoplasty
surgery, you will have a 10-15 pound lifting restriction for at least 2 weeks following
surgery. (That will include lifting children.) You also have to make adjustments
at work due to pain, swelling, bruising and being on pain medication. On average,
patients take a week to 10 days off work. Some patients who have more physically
demanding jobs or who work in the public eye might need to take off longer. Patients
on average will have bruising for 1-2 weeks and will have a splint on the nose for
at least 1 week.
Before and after steps for rhinoplasty
To reduce bruising and the risk of hematoma, you must stop taking blood thinners
and vitamin E at least one week before and after surgery. If you are on prescription
blood thinners, you may need to get medical clearance from your personal physician
as well as instructions on how to stop these medications. We also want all herbal
medication and diet pills (prescription and over-the-counter) stopped at least two
weeks before surgery and one week following.
At Heartland Plastic and Hand Surgery in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, cosmetic surgeries
are elective procedures. The patient must be in overall good health before the surgery
can be performed. If there are questions regarding your health, medical clearance
from your family doctor may be required.
I might consider a nose job. What should I do next?
At Heartland Plastic and Hand Surgery in Cape Girardeau, Missouri, David Deisher,
MD and J. Stewart Humphrey, MD are board certified by The American Board of Plastic
Surgery. They offer plastic and hand surgery to patients across Missouri including
Cape Girardeau, Jackson and Sikeston. Your next step is to contact the Heartland
Plastic and Hand Surgery office in Cape Girardeau to schedule your initial rhinoplasty
consultation! Bring all your questions and concerns to your consultation so your
doctor can address them. Do not put this off any longer. Act now and make this important
phone call!
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