RHINOPLASTY ("NOSE JOB")

Rhinoplasty is surgery that reshapes the nose. It is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures.

Rhinoplasty can:

make noses smaller or larger
narrow the span of the nostrils
relieve breathing problems
correct an injury or birth defect
widen or narrow the tip or the bridge or
change the angle between the nose and upper lip

Having a "nose job" can certainly improve appearance and self-confidence. People wanting improvement, not perfection, make the best patients. They have realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery. For teenagers, it is important to consider the social and emotional adjustment that follows the surgery. A "nose job" should be something the teen wants and not just what the parents want. Surgery is best performed on teenagers after completing their growth spurt. This is around age 14 or 15 for girls and slightly later for boys.

Rhinoplasty is usually performed on an outpatient basis. The facility used may be a clinic, a surgery center, or a hospital. The surgery normally takes an hour or two. The nature of the case determines the length of the surgery and where it will be performed.

There is no visible scarring when the incisions are made inside the nose. If the incisions are made at the base of the nose, the small scars are usually not noticeable. After the surgery, nasal packs, or soft plastic splints, may be placed in the nostrils. A splint is also applied outside the nose to help stabilize its new shape.

During the healing process, the patient's nose may ache and bleed the first few days. Nasal packing is removed within a few days; however, nasal stuffiness may persist for several weeks. Most of the swelling and bruising around the eyes will disappear within 2 weeks. All dressings, splints, and stitches are removed after 1 or 2 weeks.

Strenuous activity, such as jogging, swimming, and bending, should be avoided for 2 to 3 weeks. For 8 weeks, avoid rubbing the nose and getting it sunburned. The healing process is slow and gradual. The final results of rhinoplasty may not be fully appreciable for a year or more.

There are risks and complications that can occur with rhinoplasty. Before agreeing to the surgery, find out as much as possible about the procedure, the risks involved, and the plastic surgeon you may be considering. Always select a board certified plastic surgeon with training and experience in the procedure you want done. The surgeon will evaluate your health history, face, and nose and advise you on what will give you the best results. It is important that you have good communication with your surgeon regarding your expectations and results.

The benefits and costs will also be explained. Health insurance usually does not pay for elective cosmetic surgery such as this.

Disclaimer: This content is reviewed periodically and is subject to change as new health information becomes available. The information provided is intended to be informative and educational and is not a replacement for professional medical evaluation, advice, diagnosis or treatment by a healthcare professional.

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