A Surgeon’s Perspective from the Other Side
The idea of a plastic surgeon undergoing plastic surgery is a unique one — a classic case of “getting a taste of your own medicine.”
Plastic surgery is, at its core, about looking and feeling your best. As plastic surgeons, we’re often seen as ambassadors of beauty standards — and yes, appearances matter. A sloppy-looking plastic surgeon might not inspire much confidence. That said, we’re not expected to be models either. A healthy appearance, professional demeanor, and approachable personality are what truly matter.
But even surgeons are human. We’re allowed to desire self-improvement, too. The key is that we pursue it for the right reasons — not to impress patients, but to align our outer appearance with how we feel inside.
The Emotional Complexity of Being the Patient
As a surgeon, you understand procedures inside and out — the benefits and the risks. That level of knowledge is both a blessing and a curse. It can heighten anxiety, because you’ve seen what can go wrong. At the same time, it gives you a powerful tool: empathy.
Going through surgery yourself opens your eyes to what patients truly experience — not just physically, but emotionally. And in my case, it was humbling.
My Rhinoplasty Journey
I had always disliked my nose. It was severely crooked, and I struggled with nasal breathing. The teasing I endured in school stayed with me.
I remember being eight years old, jumping up stairs on one leg to impress my grandmother. I tripped, smashed my nose on a step, and cried myself to sleep as it bled and swelled. That moment changed the shape of my nose — and, in some ways, my life.
Over time, the crookedness worsened. But I didn’t address it until age 53 — yes, 53! Better late than never.
I began my patient journey just like anyone else — searching for the right surgeon. I had the advantage of knowing many great ones, but I made it a point to be a good patient: I let the surgeon lead, I discussed my goals, and I followed instructions. I even decided to document the journey to help future patients.
Preparing for Surgery
In the weeks before surgery, I:
- Exercised regularly
- Ate healthy
- Got quality sleep
- Meditated daily to reduce anxiety
When the day arrived, I was ready. Surgery went smoothly. I woke up groggy but grateful. That’s when I realized: the surgeon’s job was over — mine was just beginning.
I iced non-stop with frozen peas, used saline spray, and kept my head elevated. While my nose didn’t hurt much, I felt some anesthesia-related fatigue and pain in my ear (cartilage had been harvested for grafting). Though I was prescribed stronger pain meds, I chose to stick with Tylenol and ice.
On day three, I grew impatient with the stitches in my ear — they hurt. So yes, I took them out myself. One of the few privileges of being a plastic surgeon! But as they say, don’t try this at home.
From Gratitude to Obsession
At my one-week follow-up, the splint came off — and I was ecstatic. My nose was finally straight. I felt immense gratitude for my surgeon.
But then came the obsession.
I started staring at my nose constantly. At first, I admired it. Then I began noticing tiny imperfections. I started falling into the trap I warn my patients about — seeking perfection.
There is no such thing as a perfect nose, and chasing that fantasy can become emotionally destructive. It’s a form of postoperative OCD I’ve seen in others — and now I saw it in myself.
Thankfully, I recognized it. I talked myself off the ledge, reminded myself of what truly matters, and let go of the fixation.
What I Learned
This experience was an eye-opener. It taught me what patients really go through — physically, emotionally, and mentally.
I now have more empathy, more compassion, and a deeper understanding of the psychological journey that comes with plastic surgery.
And yes — I’m very happy with my nose. I’m grateful I did it. Not just for the cosmetic result, but for the insight it gave me as both a doctor and a human being.
Thinking About Rhinoplasty?
If you’re considering rhinoplasty or any other facial procedure, you’re not alone. I’ve been there. And I can help guide you — not just technically, but emotionally, too.
Individual results vary. No surgical outcome can be guaranteed.
Janjua Facial Surgery — Bedminster, NJ | janjuafacialsurgery.com
Call or text (908) 470-2600 to schedule a private consultation.
Written by Dr. Tanveer Janjua, MD, Facial Plastic Surgeon, Bedminster, NJ