Safety of Nose Surgery

Anyone who's undergone even the simplest surgical procedure knows that risk is always involved. Although procedures offered under cosmetic surgery are typically less risky than those offered under other fields of medicine, an inherent risk is still present. A procedure which has seen tremendous growth in popularity has been the rhinoplasty procedure, more commonly known as a nose job. This surgery has been a miracle worker for those self-conscious about the look of their nose. A rhinoplasty can also help those with breathing problems acquired as a result of an injury or simply from birth. Although the prospect of finally making the decision to receive this procedure may be exciting, every factor needs to be considered very carefully.

A shocking statistic pertaining to nose jobs is that nearly 20% of people who undergo the procedure return for a second one, known as a revision rhinoplasty. There are numerous reasons why patients return to the operating table. Some received a botched procedure, sustained an accident that damaged their nose shortly after their initial procedure, or grew dissatisfied with the new look of their nose. Regardless of the circumstances, we can see that the majority of patients think things through rather superficially. Few of us can afford to make such a costly mistake.

The symptoms of a rhinoplasty procedure can manifest themselves at both a physical and psychological level. In respect to the former, patients can expect bruising, swelling, and skin discoloration following their procedure. Although many of these side effects wear away after a given time period, the scarring will remain in permanence.

Surgeons have grown more and more skilled in reducing the appearance of post-surgical scarring. Incision sites are now considered very carefully. Many surgeons prefer to make an incision at the intersection of the nose with the face. The crease created at this intersection is very effective at hiding any scarring. Regardless of whatever scarring a patient sustains during the procedure, its intensity should reduce in the months following the rhinoplasty. If not, the patient should contact his/her doctor.

Blood vessel damage can also occur during a nose job. Some patients suffer from one or multiple burst blood vessels in or near the operation site. This is to be expected and hence not abnormal. Aesthetically, burst blood vessels can be a pain to deal with, however, they will eventually disappear.

In certain circumstances, the final shape of the nose may be skewed as a result of the patient's sleeping habits or surgical errors. Simple mistakes such as the incorrect installation of the nose splint can cause unfavorable outcomes. Most of these cases, unfortunately, require a revision rhinoplasty for correction.

Patients may experience several harmless symptoms after their surgery. Among these are loss of sensation in the nose, infection, and finally bloody or runny nose. The first is common and tends to prolong for several months. A runny nose is also to be expected in the months and weeks after the procedure. Bloody noses tend to be more sporadic but are common. Infections can usually be treated with the administration of antibiotics.

Overall, this procedure is not nearly as risky as many make it out to be. This does not mean that all factors should not be considered prior to proceeding. The most pivotal step a patient can take in ensuring success is to select a competent doctor. This will significantly reduce the possibility of complications in both the surgical and recovery phase.

Tags: Cosmetic Surgery, doctor, health, medical, Medicine, nose job, nose surgery, Plastic Surgery, Rhinoplasty, surgeon, surgery

May 15 2009 | Rhinoplasty | No Comments »

Obtaining Insurance Coverage for Your Rhinoplasty

A substantial number of people have shown apprehension in undergoing a rhinoplasty procedure thanks to the exorbitant costs often associated with the procedure. The unfortunate fact is that few people actually conduct research into the ways one can offset the cost of this surgery. Although you may have heard some disparage this claim, insurance companies will extend coverage to policy holders for a rhinoplasty surgery. This of course is on a case-by-case basis. Coverage may also be partially granted depending on the circumstances.

Individuals aspiring to receive this procedure for mere aesthetic purposes have little hope in obtaining coverage. Insurance companies will deny coverage for a surgery that is merely elective. Any variables that render the treatment a medical necessity in your particular circumstances are grounds for full or partial coverage.

Those hoping to receive the procedure to enhance the functionality of their nose may be covered. The patient him or herself, however, will not be reporting directly to the insurance company. Rather, their doctor will need to speak with the carrier to inform them of the patient's circumstances. Paperwork will likely be involved, however, it will be completed by your physician. Once everything is submitted for review, it will be up to the insurance company to either approve or deny the claim.

Most insurance companies will agree to piggyback at least some of the cost of your rhinoplasty if you have evidenced that it will be able to improve your health. Individuals who were born with a nasal deformity or sustained some injury that hindered the functionality of their nose stand the best chances in obtaining coverage from their insurance provider. In such circumstances, the procedure is no longer considered cosmetic but rather reconstructive. You will have to wait an extended period of time before you hear back from your insurance company. As such, start dealing with the insurance aspect well before you intend to receive the procedure.

Typical problems found amongst those planning to receive a rhinoplasty for medical reasons include breathing issues, as well as persistent (and at times pulsating) headaches. A common misconception is that a rhinoplasty surgery can correct a deviated septum. This is not the case. A septoplasty is performed to correct a deviated septum. The predominant characteristic that sets these two apart is that one is considered elective, while the other a medical necessity. Nose deformities that cause breathing problems and the like can contribute to the development of other conditions, placing the patient in danger and discomfort. Hence, these patients are very eligible for coverage.

Although those who request coverage often try to make a convincing argument for their cause, sometimes insurance companies outright deny their claim. Just because you receive a denial letter in the mail does not mean it is the end of the road. You can pursue your rhinoplasty procedure by filing an appeal with the insurance company.

Protocols for going about this can widely vary, hence, you should conduct the needed research. Try to get as familiarized as possible with your insurance policy and thereafter correspond with the correct parties to pursue an appeal. Be ready to provide your carrier with additional documentation if requested.

Be sure to have any pertinent material on-hand to forward to your insurance company. Don't be lazy, as it is really not in your best interest to piggyback the cost of the procedure. The entire process can be time consuming, however, in the end it can be equally as rewarding.

Tags: Cosmetic Surgery, doctor, health, medical, Medicine, nose job, Plastic Surgery, Rhinoplasty, surgeon

May 14 2009 | Rhinoplasty | No Comments »