Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a nose job, is one of the most intricate and rewarding procedures in plastic surgery, designed to reshape the nose for aesthetic or functional improvement. Whether the goal is to refine the nasal tip, remove a dorsal hump, or correct breathing difficulties, this procedure seeks to create a nose that is in perfect harmony with your other facial features. We believe a successful rhinoplasty is one where the results look entirely natural, enhancing the face without drawing attention to the surgery itself.

The nose is the focal point of facial symmetry, and even minor adjustments can profoundly impact the overall balance of the face. Rhinoplasty is highly individualized; no two procedures are exactly alike because every patient’s bone structure, cartilage strength, and skin thickness are unique. Beyond aesthetics, rhinoplasty is frequently used to address structural defects such as a deviated septum, which can cause chronic respiratory issues.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical intervention that modifies the bone and cartilage framework of the nose. There are two primary surgical approaches:

• Open Rhinoplasty: A small incision is made across the columella (the narrow strip of tissue between the nostrils). This allows the surgeon to lift the skin and have full visibility of the nasal structures, making it the preferred method for complex reshaping or revision cases.

• Closed (Endonasal) Rhinoplasty: All incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scars. This approach is often used for patients requiring more modest adjustments to the bridge or tip.

During the surgery, the surgeon may remove a "hump" on the bridge, narrow the nasal bones to refine the width, or reshape the tip to correct a bulbous or drooping appearance. If the patient has breathing issues, a septoplasty is performed simultaneously to straighten the internal wall of the nose. In some cases, cartilage grafts—harvested from the septum or occasionally the ear—are used to provide structural support and ensure long-term stability.

Who is rhinoplasty for?

Rhinoplasty is suitable for adult patients whose facial growth is complete (usually 16 or older) and who seek to improve the appearance or function of their nose. You may be a candidate if:

• You feel your nose is too large or too wide for your face.
• You have a visible bump or "hump" on the nasal bridge.
• You have a bulbous, drooping, or upturned nasal tip.
• Your nose appears crooked or asymmetrical due to genetics or a previous injury.

• You suffer from chronic nasal congestion or difficulty breathing through the nose.

Before the operation

The consultation is a critical phase where your surgeon will conduct an internal and external examination of your nose. We utilize facial analysis and, often, 3D imaging to discuss potential outcomes and ensure your goals align with what is surgically achievable. Your skin quality and the strength of your nasal cartilage will determine which techniques are most appropriate for your frame.

You will be given a comprehensive preoperative plan. This includes a strict requirement to stop smoking and avoid aspirin or anti-inflammatory medications for at least two weeks, as these can increase bleeding and swelling during and after the procedure.

During the operation

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts between 2 and 4 hours. Once the incisions are made, the surgeon carefully separates the skin from the underlying bone and cartilage. The reshaping process then begins—this may involve "rasping" down bone, repositioning cartilage, or adding grafts for definition.

If breathing correction is required, the surgeon straightens the septum and reduces the turbinates (internal structures that can block airflow). Once the desired shape is achieved, the skin is redraped, and the incisions are closed with fine sutures. A plastic or metal splint is then applied to the bridge of the nose to protect the new structure and maintain its shape during the initial healing phase.

After the operation and recovery

In the first week, you will need to wear the nasal splint and potentially some internal nasal packing. While actual pain is often lower than expected, most patients describe a feeling of "heavy" congestion, similar to a severe cold. Bruising and swelling around the eyes are common but usually begin to fade after 7 to 10 days.

The splint is typically removed after one week, at which point most patients feel comfortable returning to work or school. However, you must avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, or any activity where the nose might be bumped for at least 6 weeks. While the majority of swelling resolves within the first month, the final refinement of the nasal tip can take up to a full year to settle as the skin shrinks to the new underlying framework.

Will I have visible scars?

In a closed rhinoplasty, there are no external scars at all. In an open rhinoplasty, there is a tiny incision on the underside of the nose (the columella). This scar is intentionally shaped like a small "V" or "stair-step" to make it nearly invisible once healed. Most patients find that within a few months, the scar is almost impossible to detect even upon close inspection.

How long does it take to see the final result?

While you will see a significant change as soon as the splint is removed after one week, rhinoplasty is a journey. About 80% of the swelling is gone within six weeks, but the remaining 20%—specifically at the tip—takes 12 months or longer to fully resolve. Your nose will continue to refine and "shrink-wrap" over this period.

Can rhinoplasty fix my breathing?

Absolutely. When rhinoplasty is performed to improve the internal airway, it is often called a functional rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty. By straightening a deviated septum or supporting collapsed nasal valves, your surgeon can significantly improve your quality of life by making breathing easier and more consistent.

What is a "Liquid Rhinoplasty"?

A liquid rhinoplasty is a non-surgical option using dermal fillers to temporarily disguise bumps or add volume to certain areas of the nose. However, it cannot make a nose smaller, narrow the nostrils, or fix internal breathing issues. Surgery remains the only permanent and comprehensive solution for reshaping the nasal structure.