Rhinoplasty will give you a whole new outlook on life. You will have an added incentive to bound out of bed ready to greet each new day. No longer will you instinctively want to cover your face when meeting others. No longer will your nose come between you and your real sense of purpose.

Rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose surgery, is reshaping the nose by sculpting and redefining the cartilage and bone. Usually the overall purpose is either cosmetic or health related. Cosmetically, a skilled surgeon can help a person get the face they want. With reconstructive surgery, due to birth defects or injury, the surgeon is improving a person's health or even saving their life.

Cosmetic rhinoplasty is done to improve the overall appearance of the face. It works by shortening a too long nose, filling in and adding to a too small nose or altering the shape to give a more pleasing look to the face. Health related plastic surgery performed on the nose can remove blockage and permit a freer flow of air through the nasal passages. The blockage possibly resulted from a broken nose that healed leaving scar tissue that interferes with breathing.

Before you make the big decision, find an accredited surgeon who is board certified and who has at least two years of plastic surgery experience. In several planning sessions talk over your reasons for surgery. Have some pictures of the nose you like and the look you would like to achieve. Listen to the doctor's recommendations carefully and understand there is no such thing as a perfect nose, there are only improved noses.

Understand that once the surgery has been performed results will take time. Don't jump to any conclusions when the bandages come off. You will have to take time to heal and gradually become acquainted with your new face and allow satisfaction to grow. Know when enough is enough and certainly when only a small improvement is needed, one or two plastic surgeries should be enough.

As an example, don't do as Michael Jackson did, turning the beautiful face he was born with into a surreal one. It is said he hated his face. His real need was internal and no amount of plastic surgery could possibly have supplied what he thought he needed. For most folks, only minor alterations will do wonders.

Expect a little discomfort for about a week or two. This will gradually lessen. You will be given pain medication if needed and every consideration will be made to make your recovery as uneventful as possible. Some after surgery reminders to make your recovery easier will be given to you by your plastic surgeon.

Most importantly, don't expect perfection and give yourself time to get used to your beautiful new nose. Healing does takes time, so relax. Get involved in activities that will draw attention away from your face and allow the passage of time to put the finishing touches on the new look you so desired.
Nick Messe is president of Lead Frog LLC. In the Chicago Land area the Women's Institute of Cosmetic & Laser Surgery provides liposuction and other types of cosmetic and laser surgery. The Institute is an all female Illinois plastic surgery practice with medical offices throughout Chicago Land.