Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job”, is a cosmetic procedure designed to improve the shape, size, and overall appearance of the nose. This procedure can refine the nose’s appearance, harmonize it with other facial features, and improve nasal function.

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About the Procedure

Rhinoplasty is a highly individualized procedure that is tailored to the patient’s specific needs and goals.

Incision Placement

Depending on your needs, rhinoplasty can be performed using either a closed or open technique. In a closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nostrils so that there will be no visible scars. In an open rhinoplasty, an incision is made across the base of the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils), allowing for greater access to the nasal structure but leaving behind a small horizontal scar. The choice between closed vs open rhinoplasty depends on several factors, including your desired outcome, your preferences, and the complexity of the changes needed.

Reshaping the Nose

During the procedure, the surgeon will manipulate the internal nasal structures to improve the appearance of the nose. The nasal bones may be repositioned or reshaped, and the cartilage in the tip of the nose may be refined to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing contour.

Candidates

You may be a candidate for rhinoplasty if:

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You are unhappy with the size, shape, or angle of your nose
You have a bump on the bridge of your nose and would like to straighten it
You feel that the tip of your nose is too large, drooping, or upturned
Your nose is crooked or asymmetrical due to injury or genetics
You are in good overall health and have realistic expectations for the outcome
You are a non-smoker (or are willing to quit prior to surgery)

Candidates should also be at least 16 years old so that the nasal cartilage is fully developed before surgery.

Recovery

Recovery from rhinoplasty varies from patient to patient. In general, here’s what you can expect:

After surgery, you will be monitored in a recovery room before being discharged. You will need someone to drive you home and stay with you for the first 24 to 48 hours. A splint will be placed on your nose to protect and support the new shape during initial healing. You may also have internal splints or nasal packing to support the septum.

Most of this week will be spent resting and healing. Swelling, bruising around the eyes, and some discomfort are common during this time; these symptoms can be managed with prescribed medications. You will be advised to keep your head elevated and avoid any activities that could put pressure on your nose. Many patients can return to work or school after about a week.

Light activities can generally be resumed within a week or two. However, strenuous activities (especially those that could impact the nose) should be avoided for at least 4 to 6 weeks. Contact sports should be avoided for a few months.

While much of the swelling and bruising will subside within the first few weeks, it can take several months for your nose to fully heal and for the final results to be visible. Subtle changes may continue to occur over the course of a year as the tissues settle. Regular follow-up appointments will help monitor your progress.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long do the results of rhinoplasty last?

Rhinoplasty results are permanent, although the natural aging process may cause subtle changes to the nose over time. The improvements made during the procedure should last a lifetime and provide you long-lasting satisfaction with your appearance.

Will rhinoplasty leave visible scars?

Closed rhinoplasty leaves no visible scars since the incisions are inside the nostrils. Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the base of the columella, but this typically heals well and becomes barely noticeable over time. Following proper aftercare instructions can help minimize visible scarring.

Are there risks associated with rhinoplasty?

As with any surgery, there are risks associated with rhinoplasty, including infection, bleeding, changes in nasal sensation, facial asymmetry, and difficulty breathing through the nose. However, these risks are minimized when the procedure is performed by a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon. The specific risks will be discussed with you in detail before your surgery.

Can rhinoplasty be combined with other procedures?

Yes, rhinoplasty can be combined with other facial procedures (such as eyelid surgery) to enhance overall facial harmony. Combining procedures can also reduce overall recovery time compared to having multiple surgeries separately.

How soon will I see the results of my rhinoplasty?

You will begin to see changes as the initial swelling subsides, usually within a few weeks after surgery. However, it can take up to a year for all swelling to fully resolve and for the final results to be visible. Patience is key, as the nose continues to refine over time.

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