Rhinoplasty Myths and Facts

Rhinoplasty or plastic surgery of the nose is the most common cosmetic surgery procedure around the world and it is considered very safe and effective. Yet there are many myths about rhinoplasty that exist as uninformed people pass on rumors or misinformation. Here are the common myths and the truth that replaces them.

Myth #1 – Plastic Surgery of the Nose Uses Plastic Materials

Some people actually believe that plastic surgeons use plastic parts to create the desired changes. This is not true and it stems simply from the name of the surgery, “plastic surgery.” The word plastic really comes from Greek and merely means to mold or form something. When surgeons do insert materials, particularly in the bridge to make it taller or thinner, they use either biologic or synthetic materials, like silicon but they are not made of the everyday plastic you are familiar with. They are shaped and carved to create just the right, natural look and not an awkward, obviously touched-up nose.

Myth #2 – The Nose Can Be Recreated into Any Form Desired

Plastic surgeons cannot just give you a nose to match that of your favorite celebrity. And they cannot just create tissue out of thin air. They simply modify or enhance your current nose. Supplemental bridges can be implanted, nostrils can be trimmed and slimmed, but there is only so much a surgeon can do before it starts looking unnatural and overdone. Think Michael Jackson! In fact, if you persist in unrealistic expectations of what a rhinoplasty can do for you, most surgeons will refuse to operate on you because they know you will be angry and disappointed with the results.

Myth #3 – Rhinoplasty Noses are Very Fragile

Especially those who are fitted for nose bridge implants often hear this myth and fear that their implants can be easy bent out of place. Any problems with the placement of the bridge will be obvious as soon as the swelling resides and can usually be corrected. But patients can resume all their normal activities like work and exercise and sports without fear of messing up their results.

Myth #4 – The Sun Will Melt Your Nose Implant

All though this sounds ridiculously silly, some people do actually believe this myth. The reason that this rumor exists at all is because some patients cut corners and get so-called instant surgery that uses candle wax injections to reshape the nose. Such parrafin wax does indeed react poorly to heat. Sun and extreme heat can melt the implant and distort its shape. Today, certified, quality-driven surgeons use rubberized silicon for nasal implants which are unaffected by sunlight and fires on the hearth.

Myth #5 – There Will Be No Scars

Unfortunately this myth is not true. Fortunately though, the scars are usually so well placed that they are hidden after the healing process is complete. The incisions are typically made inside the nostrils or along the natural crease of the outside of the nostrils making the scars very difficult to spot. You should be aware that the scars will be visible until they heal though, which could be as long 6 weeks.

There are many other myths floating around about rhinoplasty cosmetic surgery, so be sure to talk to a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon to have all your questions answered with facts, not falsehoods.