With advancements in surgical techniques and less invasive surgical approaches, rhinoplasty, has become one of the safer procedures performed by a cosmetic surgeon. However, certain risks are inherent to rhinoplasty, just like any other surgery. The patient should be aware of the risks in order to make a well-considered decision.
A committed surgeon will apprise the patient of the potential risks and complications, and address all their concerns and doubts in this regard. The patient should be prepared to follow the surgeon’s pre- and post-surgical instructions to minimize the risk. Dr. Paul McCluskey is an experienced plastic surgeon providing rhinoplasty and various other procedures to patients in Atlanta, GA and surrounding locations.
List of Complications
Patients should ideally choose a well-qualified and experienced cosmetic surgeon for rhinoplasty in order to mitigate the risks and complications. The following complications may potentially be associated with rhinoplasty procedure:
- Occurrence of infection during or after the procedure
- Adverse reaction to lidocaine or general anesthesia
- Persistent numbness in the incision areas
- Problems in nasal breathing
- Chronic nosebleeds
- Perforations in the septum
- Hematoma or fluid buildup under the skin
- Rupture of blood vessels
- Conspicuous scarring
- Asymmetry or other unwanted cosmetic results
- Need for revision surgery
Dr. McCluskey is a dedicated plastic surgeon receiving patients from Atlanta, GA and nearby areas for rhinoplasty.
Risk Reduction
The single most important factor that will contribute to the final outcome in rhinoplasty procedure is the surgeon’s skill. A fully trained and experienced surgeon with a strong safety track record and a commitment to maintaining the latest safety protocols will be able to cut down the typical risks such as infection and perforated septum.
An experienced surgeon will create results that maintain a balance between the patient’s fundamental nasal and facial characteristics and their personal aesthetic goals and aspirations. At the same time, the patient should be prepared to adhere to the pre- and post-surgical guidelines of the surgeon, which will help to promote quicker healing and improve patient safety.
The communication between the surgeon and the patient should be adequate and frank throughout the rhinoplasty journey. The patient should be forthcoming about their medical history, the habit of smoking, the current medications, vitamins and herbal supplements, and any other pertinent issues. Correct information will allow the surgeon to plan appropriately for emergencies.
Risk of Unfavorable Scarring
Scarring risks are fairly low in case of rhinoplasty, but these cannot be ruled out in case of open rhinoplasty. This technique will involve an incision made across the columella, which will leave a small scar. A skilful surgeon will ensure that the scar remains inconspicuous.
If closed rhinoplasty is performed, the risk of external scarring is reduced. In this technique, the surgeon will make the incisions inside the nostrils and perform the procedure from within.
Risk of Patient Dissatisfaction
In exceptional situations, the patient may be dissatisfied with the final results because of a surgical error, inadequate patient-surgeon communication, or unrealistic expectations on part of the patient. Results typically take about a year to establish fully, and the patient should wait until the final outcome is visible.
For more information on procedures and treatments offered by Plastic Surgeon, Dr. Paul McCluskey and the Plastic Surgery Institute of Atlanta, visit: