Rhinoplasty is a highly customized cosmetic surgery that allows you to reshape your nose and balance the harmony of your facial features. A rhinoplasty can revise the size, shape, width, and symmetry of your nose, with the ultimate goal of appearing like the nose you were always meant to have. Beyond its aesthetic impact, rhinoplasty is a blend of science and art, and can improve function by opening the breathing passages or repairing an injury. For patients with a deviated septum, a septoplasty to correct this condition is often performed at the same time. Rhinoplasty can involve modifying bone, skin or cartilage, or all three.
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Who is an ideal candidate for a rhinoplasty?
Candidates for this surgery should be at least 16 years of age and in good overall health. Our surgeons will confirm that younger patients have achieved full facial growth prior to undergoing any nasal surgery. Rhinoplasty can be appropriate for a wide range of concerns, including removing a hump, modifying the bridge, reshaping the tip, reshaping or resizing the nostrils, and increasing or decreasing the size. During your consultation, our skilled surgical team will review your unique needs and craft a plan that aligns with your vision. It’s important to note that rhinoplasty comes with a lengthy healing process, and candidates should be prepared to be patient while their final results take shape.
What will my rhinoplasty surgery be like?
Rhinoplasty surgery is performed under general anesthesia in our fully accredited in-house operating facility and takes 2-3 hours depending on your treatment plan. In closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made within the nostrils. In open rhinoplasty, an incision is made across the columella, the tissue between the nostrils. With both methods, the soft tissues covering the nose are gently lifted, and the bone and cartilage are sculpted to the desired shape. If additional cartilage is needed to augment the nose, it is frequently taken from the patient’s nasal septum. If larger sections of tissue are required, cartilage may be surgically removed from the ear or other parts of the body as well. If necessary, nostrils are reshaped in the final stage of rhinoplasty.
How long is the recovery period from a rhinoplasty?
Following surgery, our attentive medical team will monitor your initial recovery in the calm, comfortable setting of our in-house recovery room. Our nurses will see you again in-clinic for about 1-2 weeks after surgery and subsequently as needed to support your recovery journey. We’ll guide you through incision care, suture and splint removal, and assessment of the surgical site; and will advise you on long-term care and expectations.
Your recovery phase is the bridge to embracing your new look. Some swelling and bruising will be a natural part of the healing process. You will have external dressings and splints inside your nose to support the repair for about one week, which can result in congestion and the inability to breathe through your nose. You must refrain from strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting, and any activities where your head is below your heart for about 4-6 weeks after surgery.
As with any surgery, the healing process can vary from patient to patient and your final results will depend on many individual factors. It is important to be patient with your body and allow yourself time to rest and recuperate. Rhinoplasty results may continue to improve for up to a year, and you’ll be able to enjoy the final results for decades to come.
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Your Questions Answered
We strive to ensure our patients are thoroughly informed and equipped with the resources they need to make the best decision for themselves. Your consultation includes a comprehensive examination of the facial and nasal anatomy, a discussion of your goals, your health history, and an explanation of the procedure, including potential risks and benefits. You will also have the opportunity to explore your potential results using our advanced VECTRA® 3D simulation technology. Together, we’ll craft a tailored plan that not only enhances your features but boosts your confidence. For more information, you can also review our guide to the surgical process from consultation to recovery.
You will need to ensure a reliable adult is available to drive you to and from your procedure and to support you full-time for the first three to five days of recovery. We recommend having someone available to drive you to your post-op appointment(s).
As with any procedure, post-operative complications after a rhinoplasty are rare but possible. These may include bleeding, infection, asymmetry, contour abnormalities, delayed healing, loss of sense of smell, airway compromise, and the potential need for revisional surgery. Our skilled surgical team prioritizes patient safety and meticulously works to minimize these risks. Minor ‘touch ups’ to achieve optimal results are not uncommon after rhinoplasty. You may experience altered sensations such as numbness or tingling for several weeks or months, which are normal and should resolve with time.