Do steroid injections for post-rhinoplasty patients cost money?

Question

I'm about 4 months post-rhinoplasty and I feel the tip of my nose is way too big. I heard about steroid injections and was just curious, do they cost money or can they be covered by insurance (if so, how?) Also, do they work pretty nicely most of the time or can they make it look worse? Thank you.

Reza Momeni, MD, FACS · Answer

Over the years, I've learned to explain to my rhinoplasty patients BEFORE the operation that noses tend to hang onto swelling for a while after nose jobs.  That's just the fact, and not an excuse.  Patients need to know about this before surgery, so that they're not disappointed afterwards.Once the swelling goes away, around 1-2 months after surgery, particular areas of the nose might start to build scar tissue under the skin (especially just above the tip).  This is not a good thing, since if allowed to progress over time, it'll detract from the nice results and the detailed plan of our rhinoplasty operations.In our practice, we usually inject steroids into particular areas, so that we can continue to help the shape of the nose settle into place based on our expectation.  It is my practice NOT to charge for these injections when the patient is a cosmetic rhinoplasty patient, and we include them as part of our routine post-op care.  In our office, all office visit after the operation are included for 1 year after the operation.  Only if a procedure (including cutting/sewing or revision) is needed do we charge for the instruments, etc.If a case is covered by insurance however, the rules are different (not our rules, insurance company rules and federal rules).  Each insurer has their own rules, and if patients need steroid injections after a procedure that was covered by insurance (not cosmetic), many insurance carriers will cover the cost of steroid injections in my experience.

Stephen M. Davis, MD, FACS · Answer

I agree with my colleague. First discuss this with your operating Plastic Surgeon, allow him / her the opportunity to re-evaluate you and help you understand what is going on. Go slowly with steroid injections I have seen this ruin a great nose, it must be carried out very exactly and carefully. The tip does take longer for swelling to resolve.Good LuckStephen M. Davis, MD, FACSGreen Hills Plastic Surgery

Remus Repta, MD · Answer

Like all things, steroid injection after rhinoplasty can be very helpful or can be dangerous.  It generally does not cost much to inject.  If you are seeing another plastic surgeon they may charge you a consult and injection fee but your original plastic surgeon would likely do it for free.  I think you should discuss your concerns with your plastic surgeon and see what your options are.All the best,Dr. Remus Repta

Do steroid injections for post-rhinoplasty patients cost money?

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Do steroid injections for post-rhinoplasty patients cost money?

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Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.