09 Apr 2026 | by Akshay Sanan, MD, FACS
As a Double Board-Certified Facial Plastic, and Head and Neck Surgeon, rhinoplasty procedures are one of my areas of expertise. Rejuvenating the nose is challenging since it’s both a cosmetic and reconstructive procedure that requires extreme technical know-how and a well developed artistic eye. But this is also why
it is one of my favorite procedures to perform. Creating a nose that looks proportional and functions properly can be life altering for my patients. I pride myself on delivering an exemplary result. And though it may sound strange, a big part of this happens long before we ever step into the operating room (OR). Rhinoplasty is a highly individualized procedure that requires thoughtful preparation. The focus of myself and my team is to deliver a safe, predictable result with a healing process that is as efficient as possible. So, when my Boston area patients ask: “How should I prepare for my rhinoplasty?”, here is what I tell them.
Schedule a Rhinoplasty Consultation
The internet has completely changed people’s knowledge when it comes to aesthetic procedures. This is particularly true among my younger patients who have grown up on social media. Many of the ways in which the web has affected the field of plastic surgery are positive. As mentioned, the internet allows you to research available options for changing what you don’t like about your appearance in the privacy of your own home. So when a new patient comes in to see me, he or she has a much deeper baseline of knowledge than in the past. However, this knowledge is not individualized and any procedure, including all forms of rhinoplasty, must be the right one for your unique anatomy and desired outcome. This is one of the many reasons why I am so adamant about scheduling an in- person rhinoplasty consultation in one of my Boston area offices.
During our meeting, I will listen intently to what bothers you about your appearance. I will ask about your breathing history, aesthetic goals, family history, medical history, any prior procedures you may have had, cosmetic or otherwise, as well as how your body recovered. We will then review photos of noses that you like and I will conduct a thorough physical exam to assess both the form and function of your nose. Together, we will go over your best treatment options.
Realistic Expectations = Happy Outcome
A critical component to preparing for your rhinoplasty is to make sure that your expectations are realistic. Any aesthetic procedure has to work within the confines of your specific anatomy. Some patients come in wanting a nose that simply won’t work for them. During your consultation and initial meetings, I will go over in
detail what a rhinoplasty can deliver for you. This is a procedure of precision — where even 1mm can make a difference. So, I will do everything in my power to get you where you want to be. But your nose is also a permanent part of your facial contour so this is not something that should be influenced by trends.
Rhinoplasty Pre-Op To Do List
In the weeks leading up to surgery, I typically ask my patients to do the following:
• Stop smoking & nicotine
• Avoid blood thinning medications & supplements
• Maintain a stable weight
• Embrace a healthful diet & proper hydration
• Have a support plan in place for your recovery
Downtime is an integral component of any surgical procedure. No matter how great you heal, you are going to need some time to recover. It’s important that you plan ahead for time off with your job, if appropriate, make sure that your home environment is conducive to healing, and set up any support you may need such as:
• Childcare
• Dog walker
• Housekeeper
• Food delivery
Doing all of this beforehand will help ensure the smooth surgical experience and optimal results that we both want. To find out more about a Rhinoplasty, or any other surgical or non-surgical procedure with Dr. Akshay Sanan at the Boston Center for Plastic Surgery, contact us today or call (617) 402-2768 to schedule a consultation.
