Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty reshapes, reduces, or increases the size of the nose, including changing the shape of the tip or bridge, narrowing the nostrils, and changing the angle between the nose and upper lip. It also may correct a birth defect or injury and help relieve breathing problems. For example, defects in the nasal passages (or septal defects) can be corrected alone or in conjunction with rhinoplasty to improve breathing. Insurance sometimes covers surgery to correct breathing problems.

Nasal imperfections can be hereditary or the result of an injury. Depending on the patient's needs, changes after rhinoplasty may be subtle or dramatic. The goal of the procedure is to create a natural-looking nose that is balanced with the face.

Consultation
Consultation for the procedure includes a thorough discussion of your desires, expectations, and concerns as well as limits and risks of the surgery. The surgeon will review your medical history and recommend options that would be suitable for you. He or she also will take pictures of and carefully examine your nose, chin, and face. Computer imaging can be used to give you an idea of what your reshaped nose will look like. 

The structure of your nasal bones and cartilage, shape of your face, thickness of your skin, age, and your expectations will influence the procedure.

Candidates
The best candidates for rhinoplasty are healthy people who have realistic expectations but would like to improve their noses.

The Procedure
In most cases, rhinoplasty is performed as an outpatient procedure. The type of anesthesia and location of surgery depends on the complexity of the procedure.

Rhinoplasty is an individualized surgery in which the skin of the nose is separated from its supporting framework of bone and cartilage, and then sculpted to the desired shape. External and internal nasal splints may be used to support the nose while it heals. The splints are removed after a week. Most patients do not have their noses packed after surgery. The location of incisions and stitches varies with each patient. For this reason, your surgeon will explain his or her approach with your nose during your consultation.

Recovery and Results
If you undergo rhinoplasty, you will be given thorough written instructions to prepare for and recover from your surgery. Most patients describe having some, but limited, discomfort after the procedure. One week and for periodic visits up to a year after surgery, your surgeon will examine you to check your progress with healing.

Bruising typically lasts about a week; however, swelling, which only you are likely to notice, may persist for several months. Patients generally return to school or work about 10 days after surgery with some restrictions in their activities. Secondary surgery to perfect the results may be necessary in certain cases.

The results of rhinoplasty should be a natural-looking nose that is well balanced with all the features on your face.