Rhinoplasty is the surgical restructuring of the nose for cosmetic or functional reasons. Nose surgery can enhance the appearance of the nasal bridge, nasal tip, or the nostrils to create a more attractive, balanced look. As one of the most complex of all facial surgeries, rhinoplasty should only be performed by a very highly-skilled, experienced plastic surgeon.
What can Rhinoplasty Do for My Appearance?
Rhinoplasty is a customized surgery that can resolve an array of cosmetic and functional nose problems, including:
- Smooth a hump on the nasal bridge
- Correct an overlarge, bulbous, or drooping nose tip
- Correct a misshapen nose damaged by an accident or injury
- Correct nasal deformities that are the result of genetics
- Correct a deviated septum
- Reduce overlarge nostrils
- Create a more defined nose bridge
- Correct a pinched-appearing nose tip

Am I a Candidate for Rhinoplasty
If you would want a more attractive nose shape or need to correct a structural issue caused by injury or a genetic feature, then rhinoplasty may be right for you. You are a good candidate if:
- You would like to enhance or change the shape of your nose
- You have an asymmetrical nose that requires correction
- Have a deviated septum or breathing or snoring issues
- Are a non-smoker
- Are in good overall health

The Two Approaches to Rhinoplasty
There are two different surgical approaches to rhinoplasty: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty.
Open rhinoplasty is the appropriate technique when precise alterations must be performed on the nose bridge and other more complex nose shape corrections. During this approach, a small incision is made on the strip of tissue between the nostrils (the columella) to allow our surgeon greater access to the nose structure. The incision will be barely visible once healed.
Closed rhinoplasty involves incisions within the nostrils. This approach is appropriate for less extensive nose corrections. The incisions are hidden within the nasal cavity and will leave no visible scars.
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What should I expect during a rhinoplasty procedure?
You will be placed under general anesthesia. The procedure will require several hours depending on the extent of the reconstruction that needs to be performed. Grafts may be required for some nose alterations, which will involve harvesting cartilage from another area of the body to build up a flat nose bridge or reconstruct a damaged nose structure, adding time to the procedure. After surgery, a splint and supportive bandage will be placed to protect the nose while it heals.
How long will it take to see the full results?
Your newly-shaped nose will need to heal completely, and the swelling and bruising subside before you will enjoy the full results of your surgery. It may require up to a year for all residual swelling to disappear, but your nose will appear normal with its new shape mostly revealed in about one month.
What should I expect during the recovery period?
You should expect to feel some discomfort, bruising, and swelling in the early stages, as well as feeling “stuffy” and unable to breathe through your nose for several days. During the first six weeks after surgery, you must avoid any strenuous activities that could impact the healing nose structure, as this could compromise your results.
Expect to be wearing a splint and supportive bandages for a week after your surgery. Our surgeon will provide specific aftercare care instructions that you should follow carefully during the recovery period. You may need painkillers in the early stages, but most patients report that the recovery was easier and less painful than they expected.
How do I ensure the best results?
Ensuring the best results will require taking extra care of your nose, using cold compresses to reduce swelling, and keeping your head elevated, especially when sleeping. Drinking plenty of water or other fluids will help with the healing process, as well as gentle walks. You must not bend over, blow your nose, or put any kind of pressure on it. Be sure to come to all of your follow-up appointments so our surgeon can ensure your recovery is progressing as it should.


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