Top FAQs on Breast Reconstruction

How long does it take to recover after a nose job?

When you awaken from surgery you will notice an internal and external splint to stabilize your nose as it heals. You will need to make temporary lifestyle adjustments as your body heals. It is especially important to sleep sitting upright for the first week to ten days while placing ice packs over your

nose. The ice pack/cold compress helps decrease your swelling and increase your comfort during this time. Additionally, you cannot blow your nose, bend over, or strain the area. No slam dancing!

If there are any sutures they are usually removed within the first 5-7 days following surgery. If internal packing is used this is usually removed by postoperative day five and if an internal splint is used this usually comes out by the second week after surgery. Although Dr. Larsen would like the external splint to stay on for two weeks it sometimes comes off after about 7-10 days.

Patients also ask how long they can expect the swelling to last. It’s really important to have realistic expectations here as this is considered the most trying aspect of a nose job. The swelling will be the most intense during the first two weeks. Immediately when the splints are removed you’ll have an idea of what the final result will look like, however, swelling will return after the splint is removed. The first month or two after your rhinoplasty, swelling can be so great that your nose may look slightly larger than it did prior to surgery. This is temporary, and very normal, no cause for concern. You may notice your nose is more swollen in the morning and less so in the afternoon after you have been up. Swelling on the bridge of your nose tends to resolve first, where as the tip takes the longest amount of time to heal. Some swelling can even continue for up to a year after surgery as the look of your nose refines into its final shape.

Patients are often curious about when they can resume their regular workout routine. Most surgeons recommend waiting three weeks to return to a regular workout routine, and a minimum of eight weeks before returning to any type of sport activity.

What are my options if I’m not satisfied with a rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is possibly the trickiest of all plastic surgeries. The detail is so important and individual results can vary even with the best surgeons under ideal circumstances. Occasionally patients are unhappy with the results of their rhinoplasty. While surgical revisions are possible for rhinoplasty, Dr. Larsen usually will not consider a revision until one year post op. Re-operation on a nose that hasn’t finished healing is a recipe for a less than desirable revision. Revisions are a financial responsibility of the patient.

Healing from rhinoplasty is a unique process and every patient’s results are different based on their desires and personal body chemistry. Many factors can affect the outcome of a nose job, such as the thickness of your skin. It is also important to note that different parts of the nose will heal quicker than others. In fact, it’s common to see surgical results on the bridge of the nose before swelling subsides on the tip of the nose.

What is Dr. Larsen’s process like for a rhinoplasty?

At Buckhead Plastic Surgery rhinoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure but an overnight stay can be arranged when necessary. Dr. Larsen performs rhinoplasty surgeries under general anesthesia.

Your specific surgical steps will be determined with your facial structure and goals in mind. Rhinoplasty techniques consist of open or closed methods. The technique will depend on your specific goals. In a closed procedure, all of the stitches will be hidden within the nose, so there will be no visible scarring. In an open procedure, a small additional incision is made in the tissue that divides the nostrils. Dr. Larsen is a very skilled surgeon who is known for hiding his incisions well with minimal scarring. He will choose the best technique to ensure your optimal results.

Why Choose Dr. Larsen for Your Nose Job

Dr. Larsen is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with over 20 years of experience. He’s lead a long and decorated career and has trained with some of the best plastic surgeons in the country. At Buckhead Plastic Surgery he has assembled a team of professionals that strive to make sure you are comfortable and satisfied with the results of your procedure. Call us today at 404.367.9005 contact us here to book your consultation and see what a difference Buckhead Plastic Surgery can make for you!

The Essential Questions to Ask

Expect plenty of questions during your consultation but don’t forget about the questions YOU should be asking any doctor who you would consider for a mommy makeover or plastic surgery procedure. Here are some essential questions you should ask your physician or patient coordinator regarding your upcoming mommy makeover:

• Are you certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery? –A board-certified surgeon is more likely to have the experience and training necessary to complete the multiple procedures required of a mommy makeover successfully. Dr. Alan Larsen is a double-board certified plastic surgeon, placing him in an elite group of nationwide plastic surgeons.

• What should I do in the weeks leading up to my surgery? – Surgery is a life-changing experience for your body, so you must prepare yourself and your family for what to expect and how to support you during recovery. Have the proper support system in place and understanding both the physical and physiological journey will help make your recovery easier. Buckhead Plastic Surgery will help you understand your needs before and post-recovery. 
• What can I expect from my recovery? –Asking about recovery before you decide to go through with a mommy makeover will help you better prepare. For example, if you get a body lift, you need to plan to be out of work for at least two weeks. 
• How are surgical complications handled? – Even though their complications that can come from surgery, asking this question lets you know that your doctor thinks ahead and is prepared to handle any problems in the rare case one presents itself. 
• What can I do if I’m dissatisfied with my results? – You must understand ahead of time what your options are if you aren’t happy with the results of your surgery so be open with Dr. Larsen and understand your options and recourse before surgery. 
• How can I get started on my mommy makeover journey?– Having asked the appropriate questions and having been asked the appropriate questions by your physician, you are now ready to make your informed decision and proceed with scheduling your mommy makeover. 

Mommy Makeover Reviews

“Great outcome! Exactly as described and desired. I receive compliments
all the time and my body is back in the shape it was before
children and c-sections (if not a bit better).”*

*Your results may vary.

Read reviews from some of Dr. Larsen’s actual patients.