Reshaping Your Nose with Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty

If you’re unhappy with the size or shape of your nose, you may consider having a cosmetic procedure known as rhinoplasty (often referred to as a “nose job“). Read on to learn more about what’s involved in this procedure and find out whether you may be a candidate.

What Can Rhinoplasty Achieve?

Various modifications can be made to the size or shape of your nose through rhinoplasty. These include the overall size of your nose; the width of the bridge of your nose; the size and shape of your nostrils; removing humps or bumps; changing the shape of the tip of your nose; and correcting asymmetry (an uneven appearance).

However, rhinoplasty is not always cosmetic. It can also be done to correct structural issues such as a deviated septum, or to fix deformities that occur because of an injury. For most people, rhinoplasty can be done when the nose has fully developed, usually after the age of 14 or 15 for girls and 17 or 18 for boys.

What Is Involved in the Procedure?

During rhinoplasty, the surgeon will make small incisions in your nose through which he or she can use instruments to reshape the cartilage and bones. In some cases, cartilage or bone may be removed; in other cases, tissue may be added from other areas of the body. After the desired shape is completed, the skin will be replaced over the new structure. Because the necessary cuts are usually made inside the nose, you won’t have visible scarring. The procedure is usually done on an outpatient basis under either general or local anesthesia.

What Type of Recovery Should I Expect?

After rhinoplasty, the surgeon will set your nose with a plastic splint to hold the new structure in place, and the nostrils packed to maintain stability. Pain is usually minor and can be controlled with over the counter medication. You may experience swelling and puffiness, which usually goes away within a few days and can be managed with cold compresses.

Complications such as bleeding or infection are rare. It’s important that you follow your surgeon’s instructions to ensure that you’re happy with the results of the procedure. Keep follow up appointments and avoid strenuous activity as directed.

If you’re unhappy with the size or shape of your nose, have difficulty breathing, or have experienced an injury that has caused an unwelcome change in your nose, rhinoplasty can help correct these issues. Doctor Steven Warnock is a board certified plastic surgeon, and he can help you get the nose you want. At our office in Draper, our team works with each patient individually to create custom treatment plans based on his or her needs. Contact Dr. Steven Warnock’s office today to schedule your consultation.