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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