Nose Contouring (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as “nose surgery,” is a procedure performed to reshape the nose by reducing or increasing the size, removing a hump, changing the shape of the tip or bridge, narrowing the span of the nostrils, or changing the angle between the nose and the upper lip. This procedure may also be performed to relieve some breathing problems.

The best candidates for Rhinoplasty
The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. Understanding rhinoplasty is also critical. Since there is no ideal in nose surgery, the goal is to improve the nose aesthetically, making it harmonize better with other facial features.

Skin type, ethnic background, and age are important factors to be considered in discussions with the surgeon prior to surgery. Young patients need to wait until they have reached full growth around 16 years or so to have this procedure. Exceptions to this are cases in which breathing is severely impaired.

Before you decide on rhinoplasty, it is important to discuss any other options for surgery that he might recommend to enhance the appearance of your face. Many patients choose to have chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty to create a better balance of features.

How the surgery is performed
The surgeon performs the procedure by making an incision inside the nose to access the bone and cartilage support. In some cases, an incision is made in the area of skin separating the nostrils. Then, the surgeon adds to or removes small amounts of underlying bone and cartilage to provide a newly shaped structure. The tissue is then redraped over the new frame and the incisions are closed with absorbable sutures. Rhinoplasty usually takes one to two hours for the procedure, depending on the extent of the work required. The procedure is typically done as an outpatient under general anesthesia. Complex procedures may require a short inpatient stay at the hospital.

What to expect after surgery
For the first 24 hours or so after your surgery, your face will feel puffy, your nose may ache, and you may have a dull headache. The surgeon will prescribe oral pain medication for you to manage this discomfort. You will want to rest the first day and keep your head elevated and apply cold compresses to reduce swelling. A splint is applied to the outside of the nose to help retain the new shape while the nose is healing. This will remain in place for five to seven days. If packing is placed inside the nose during surgery, it may be removed the following morning after your surgery or remain for two to three days. By one to two weeks, all dressings, splints and sutures should be removed.

Resuming work and other activities
The average time to return to work is one to two weeks, depending on the level of activity required for your job. You may begin to resume more strenuous activities after two to three weeks. You will need to avoid activities such as jogging, swimming, bending, sex or any other activities that raise your blood pressure during this time. Avoid hitting or rubbing your nose or getting it sunburned for the first eight weeks.