Rhinoplasty

Are you curious about rhinoplasty, otherwise known as a "nose job"? It's one of the most sought-after cosmetic surgeries around the globe, and for good reason! Read on to explore what rhinoplasty is, the reasons people choose to undergo the procedure, the steps involved, recovery, and important statistics related to the surgery. 

What is Rhinoplasty? 

Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes or resizes the nose. According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), rhinoplasty was one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries performed in recent years. People choose this surgery for various reasons, including: 

• Cosmetic Enhancement: Improving the appearance of the nose by addressing issues like bumps, asymmetry, or size 
• Functional Improvement: Correcting breathing problems caused by structural issues, such as a deviated septum 
• Reconstructive Needs: Repairing the nose after trauma or congenital defects 
  

Types of Rhinoplasty 

1. Open Rhinoplasty: This technique involves making an incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) to access the underlying nasal structure. This method provides the surgeon with greater visibility and control. 
   
   
2. Closed Rhinoplasty: All incisions are made inside the nostrils, resulting in no visible scars. This approach is often less invasive and may lead to a quicker recovery.
   
   
3. Revision Rhinoplasty: This is a secondary surgery performed to correct or improve the results of a previous rhinoplasty. 
   

The Rhinoplasty Procedure 

Preoperative Consultation 

Before surgery, patients meet with their surgeon to discuss their goals, expectations, and medical history. This may include: 

• A physical examination. 
• Photographs of the nose for surgical planning. 
• A discussion of anesthesia options. 

The Surgery 

Rhinoplasty typically takes 1.5 to 3 hours and is performed under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. The surgeon reshapes the nasal structure by: 

• Removing bone or cartilage. 
• Adding grafts (if necessary). 
• Adjusting the septum to improve airflow. 

Postoperative Care and Recovery 

Recovery from rhinoplasty varies by individual but generally includes: 

• Swelling and Bruising: Expect swelling around the eyes and nose for several days. 
• Nasal Splint: A splint may be placed on the nose for protection during healing.
• Activity Restrictions: Avoid strenuous activities and heavy lifting for at least two weeks post surgery. 

Follow-up appointments will be scheduled to monitor healing progress. Most patients can return to work within 1 to 2 weeks, but complete healing may take several months. 

Risks and Considerations 

While rhinoplasty is generally safe, it carries potential risks, such as: 

• Infection 
• Breathing difficulties 
• Scarring 
• Unsatisfactory aesthetic results 
• Need for revision surgery 

Choosing a qualified surgeon with experience in rhinoplasty can help minimize these risks. 

What to Expect After Surgery 

• Results: Initial swelling may obscure your results, but most patients see significant improvements within a few weeks. The final outcome may take several months to fully develop as swelling subsides. 

• Minimal Scarring: Surgeons often employ techniques designed to minimize visible scarring by making incisions inside the nostrils or in discreet locations. 
  

Are You a Candidate? 

Rhinoplasty may be right for you if: 

• You are in good overall health. 
• You have realistic expectations about the procedure. 
• You are unhappy with the size or shape of your nose. 
• You experience breathing difficulties due to structural issues. 

If you are considering rhinoplasty, it’s important to consult with a qualified plastic surgeon to discuss your goals and expectations in detail. 

Medical Reviewers

Last Review Date: January 2025

Content Reviewers:

• Dr. Thomas Higgins, MD, MSPH