Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

Rhinoplasty is one of the most rewarding aesthetic procedures. This surgery recontours the nose’s external features to enhance its appearance and create a more harmonious balance with other facial features. By improving certain nasal characteristics, rhinoplasty enhances both the nose and the overall facial aesthetic.

The Goal of Rhinoplasty

The goal is to reshape, redirect, or resize the nose for better symmetry and form, preserving its unique characteristics while only modifying elements that detract from facial balance. Each nose is unique, and our team aims to enhance its individuality while addressing any aesthetic concerns.

Importance of Function

The nose serves vital functions in breathing by allowing airflow, humidifying, filtering dust, and warming the air. In rhinoplasty, we preserve these functions, modifying techniques to prevent any increase in airflow resistance due to reshaping.

Septoplasty and Turbinoplasty

In addition to rhinoplasty, septoplasty and turbinoplasty can enhance nasal function. Septoplasty corrects a deviated septum, improving airflow. Turbinoplasty addresses enlarged or malformed turbinates, enhancing the nasal airway and sinus drainage if necessary.

Deciding on Surgery

Conservative approaches are emphasized in nasal surgery. Minor adjustments may be required post-surgery in under 10% of cases, with revisions deferred for 6-12 months. Patients should focus on improvement rather than perfection, as each result, while transformative, may have minor imperfections.

Initial Consultation

During your first consultation, we review medical history, including any nasal concerns, previous surgeries, or allergies. An external and internal nasal examination will follow, along with detailed discussions about your aesthetic goals. Preoperative photographs are taken for planning and record-keeping.

Pre-Surgical Instructions

Specific presurgical instructions are provided upon scheduling. Some key points include:

• Avoid aspirin or NSAIDs (e.g., Advil, Motrin) two weeks before surgery.
• Stop tobacco use at least six weeks before and six months after surgery.

The Rhinoplasty Surgery

Rhinoplasty, septoplasty, and turbinoplasty can be performed with IV sedation or general anesthesia, often in-office. Small incisions inside or outside the nose allow reshaping. Splints and packing are sometimes used and removed within a few days. A thin external splint is applied to the nose for added support.

Aftercare and Recovery

Prescription pain medication and saline nasal sprays are provided post-surgery. Follow these instructions:

• Avoid blowing your nose; use saline sprays to keep passages clear.
• Avoid strenuous activities for two weeks post-surgery.
• Refrain from wearing glasses for six weeks if nasal bones were reshaped.

Swelling reduces over several weeks, with subtle changes continuing for months, especially in the nasal tip.

Risks and Possible Complications

Complications are rare but can include bleeding, infection, irregularities, cartilage relapse, and septum perforations. Excessive scar formation, though uncommon, may also occur. If minor adjustments are needed post-surgery, simple procedures are available to address them.

Final Thoughts

Rhinoplasty offers significant aesthetic and functional improvements. Our focus is on delivering a balanced and natural-looking result that aligns with each patient’s unique facial features.