Rhinoplasty or nose reshaping is perhaps one of the most common cosmetic surgery procedures. Photographs are made of the nose so as to provide a permanent record and permit careful study. These are frequently helpful in showing the relationship of the nose to other facial features. The upper lip and chin are important contiguous structures which under some circumstances may require modification in order to achieve maximum benefit.
Rhinoplasty begins when the cosmetic surgeon makes an incision either inside the nose or across the skin that separates the nostrils. Rhinoplasty is usually performed through the inside of the nose without external incisions or noticeable residual scars, but there are a few special circumstances that require external incisions. These incisions heal well and are difficult to detect. The cartilage and bone that make up the framework of the nose are then exposed and sculpted to create the desired shape and profile. The cosmetic surgeon then fixes the skin back into place to complete the rhinoplasty.

Rhinoplasty usually lasts one to two hours and is performed as an outpatient procedure.

Cost of the Procedure

Risks of the Procedure

Rhinoplasty is considered a safe procedure.  Beyond the risks of every surgical procedure, there are very few risks specific to rhinoplasty.  Postoperative nasal bleeding can occur but is not ordinarily difficult to manage. Bleeding may occur up to one week after the procedure or after removal of the nasal packing.  Postoperative infection is only a remote possibility.
Some degrees of temporary dissatisfaction may be encountered when minor irregularities of contour (bone or soft tissue) are noted after surgery. Some of these are difficult to control. Fortunately, a significant degree of change can be expected spontaneously during the first three to six months.
Some asymmetry or contour irregularity can result from imperfect surgical judgment or technical accomplishment. Fortunately, these irregularities are quite limited and are ordinarily correctable.

Are travel and vacation activities compatible with surgery?

Rhinoplasty is an invasive procedure and requires a one to two day hospitalization for recovery. This recovery time should be included in your vacation plans and strenuous activity should be planned for before the procedure and not after.

Preparing for the procedure

Rhinoplasty begins when the cosmetic surgeon makes an incision either inside the nose or across the skin that separates the nostrils. Rhinoplasty is usually performed through the inside of the nose without external incisions or noticeable residual scars, but there are a few special circumstances that require external incisions. These incisions heal well and are difficult to detect. The cartilage and bone that make up the framework of the nose are then exposed and sculpted to create the desired shape and profile. The cosmetic surgeon then fixes the skin back into place to complete the rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty usually lasts one to two hours and is performed as an outpatient procedure.

Planning for my recovery

The surgery is mostly done on an outpatient basis except for rare complex cases where a short stay in the hospital is required after surgery. There will be some swelling of the face during the first twenty four hours. Patients are asked to stay in bed with their heads elevated for at least a day. The nose may hurt and a headache is not uncommon. Medication to relieve these conditions may be prescribed by the surgeon. Swelling and bruising around the eyes increases for a few days and begins to diminish after the third day. Slight bleeding and stuffiness, varying according to the type of surgery performed.