Rhinoplasty, more commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that can greatly enhance the appearance of the nose, improve breathing function, and boost overall self-confidence. As with any medical procedure, it’s normal to have questions and concerns before deciding whether rhinoplasty is right for you.
That’s why our Raleigh board-certified plastic surgeon has compiled a list of some of the most frequently asked questions about rhinoplasty. Whether you’re considering rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons or to address breathing issues, the professionals at North Raleigh Plastic Surgery hope that this guide will help you make an informed decision about your nose surgery.
Rhinoplasty, also known as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that improves the appearance and function of the nose. During the procedure, the surgeon will reshape the bone and/or cartilage of the nose to achieve the desired look. The procedure can be performed using either a closed or open technique, depending on the individual patient’s needs.
Good candidates for rhinoplasty include individuals who are physically healthy, have fully developed facial features, and have realistic expectations about the outcome of the surgery. Rhinoplasty can be used to address a wide variety of cosmetic concerns, including a bump on the bridge of the nose, a crooked or asymmetrical nose, and a bulbous or wide tip. It can also be used to address breathing issues such as a deviated septum. Your plastic surgeon will be able to evaluate your medical history and perform a physical examination to determine if you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty.
There is no one “best” or “ideal” age for rhinoplasty that applies to all people– the ideal age for rhinoplasty varies depending on several factors, including the patient’s physical and emotional maturity, nasal development, and overall health.
For younger patients, it is generally recommended to wait until their nose has fully developed before undergoing rhinoplasty. This usually occurs around the mid-late teen years of 16 and 17 but can vary depending on the individual. Waiting until the nose has fully developed helps to ensure the best possible results. For adult patients, there is no upper age limit for rhinoplasty as long as the individual is in good health. However, older patients may need to be evaluated more carefully for medical conditions that could affect the safety of surgery.
Rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure that involves reshaping the structures of the nose to improve its appearance or function.
Here is a more detailed explanation of the steps involved in rhinoplasty:
It is important to note that rhinoplasty is a highly individualized procedure, and the exact steps involved can vary depending on the patient’s wishes and goals and the surgeon’s tools and techniques used. A qualified and experienced plastic surgeon will work with each patient to develop a personalized surgical plan that will achieve results for a nose they will love.
There are several types of anesthesia that can be used during rhinoplasty, and the choice of anesthesia will depend on the patient’s medical history, the complexity of the procedure, and the surgeon’s preference.
General anesthesia is typically used for more complex rhinoplasty procedures. The patient is completely unconscious and does not feel any pain during the procedure. General anesthesia is usually administered through an IV (intravenous) line, and the patient is monitored closely by an anesthesiologist throughout the surgery.
Local anesthesia with sedation involves injecting numbing medication into the area around the nose, along with medication to help the patient relax and feel drowsy. The patient remains conscious during the procedure but does not feel any pain. Local anesthesia with sedation is typically used for less complex rhinoplasty procedures.
Open and closed rhinoplasty are two surgical techniques used to reshape and reconstruct the nose. The primary difference between these two techniques is the location of the incisions used to access the nasal structure.
A closed rhinoplasty, also known as endonasal rhinoplasty, is a surgical technique where all incisions are made inside the nose, and the surgeon works through narrow openings. This technique is ideal for minor changes to the nasal tip, nasal bridge, or nostrils. It usually involves less swelling and a quicker recovery time.
Also known as external rhinoplasty, open rhinoplasty involves making an incision across the columella (the strip of tissue that separates the nostrils). This technique allows the surgeon to lift the skin of the nose and fully visualize the underlying structures, which is particularly useful for more extensive nose reshaping, including alterations to the nasal tip, bridge, and nostrils. This technique can lead to a longer recovery time, and there may be visible scarring.
The decision of which technique is right for you will depend on various factors, including your specific aesthetic goals and the complexity of your surgery. Your surgeon will evaluate your nose’s structure and discuss the best approach to achieving your desired results. They will consider your medical history, facial anatomy, and skin type to determine the best surgical technique for you.
A rhinoplasty, or “nose job,” procedure will take anywhere from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the severity of corrections made and techniques used by your surgeon.
After rhinoplasty, it is common to experience some level of discomfort and pain, although the intensity and duration of the symptoms may vary depending on the extent of the surgery and individual pain tolerance.
The following are some of the typical types of discomfort that patients may experience after rhinoplasty:
To manage these discomforts, your surgeon may prescribe medication to alleviate pain and swelling, such as over-the-counter pain relievers or prescribed medication. Patients can also use ice packs and keep the head elevated to reduce swelling. Your surgeon will provide specific instructions on how to care for your nose post-surgery, including what you should and should not do. It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure a speedy and smooth recovery. If you experience severe pain or any complications, it is essential to contact your surgeon immediately.
The recovery time for rhinoplasty procedures can vary depending on the extent of the surgery, the patient’s overall health, and how well the patient follows the post-operative instructions provided by the surgeon. On average, the recovery process for rhinoplasty can take several weeks to several months, with most patients feeling back to normal after about six months.
Yes, rhinoplasty can be combined with other cosmetic surgical procedures depending on the patient’s individual needs and goals. Combining procedures can provide more comprehensive results and minimize the need for additional surgeries in the future.
Here are some popular procedures that are often combined with rhinoplasty:
Rhinoplasty is considered a long-lasting procedure, and many patients enjoy the results of their surgery for many years. Patients should maintain a healthy lifestyle and follow up with their surgeon regularly to monitor any changes or address any concerns that may arise.
Though rare, like any surgery, rhinoplasty does carry some risks and potential complications.
Whether there will be visible scarring after rhinoplasty depends on whether your surgeon uses a closed or open technique. For closed rhinoplasty, all the incisions are made inside the nostrils, which means that there will be no visible external scars. However, in some cases, small external incisions may be required, which may result in small, barely visible scars.
Open rhinoplasty, however, creates a small incision on the columella, the strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. This incision is usually well-hidden and often fades over time, but there is still a risk of visible scarring, particularly if the patient has poor skin quality or experiences poor wound healing.
While some scarring is expected after any surgical procedure, a strategic, talented, and experienced surgeon can minimize scarring by making incisions in hidden areas and ensuring that they heal properly. Patients can also help reduce the appearance of scars by following their surgeon’s post-operative instructions carefully, avoiding sun exposure and tobacco use, and maintaining good skin care practices.
The cost of rhinoplasty ranges greatly, depending on the severity of adjustments being made to your nose. The starting price for a surgical nose job with North Raleigh Plastic Surgery ranges from $6825 – $9975. Your exact surgical cost will be determined at the time of your consultation, and you will be provided with a written quote for your consideration.
Yes! North Raleigh Plastic Surgery does offer financing options. You can learn more about our financing by calling us at 919-532-2270 or by visiting our online plastic surgery financing page.
Whenever you plan to undergo a cosmetic procedure, it’s important to thoroughly research the professionals who will perform work on you. There is nothing more devastating than getting a facial surgery like rhinoplasty and being upset over the results because you did not research a reputable, trustworthy surgeon or because you cut costs, opting for the “cheaper” surgeon who was not as qualified as a surgeon whose fees were higher.
Ultimately it is up to you whether or not you trust a surgeon after meeting them or whether or not you found them talented in the work they’ve demonstrated through images of past procedures. If you feel uncomfortable with a doctor, it is a better idea to keep searching for a surgeon you communicate well with rather than settle for a surgeon you do not fully trust.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your face because of the features of your nose, North Raleigh Plastic Surgery is here to help. Our board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Ortiz, has performed rhinoplasty for many patients, with a high rate of patient satisfaction. Whether you want a bump removed from the top of your nose, want to widen or slim down the bridge of the nose, or are looking for a more symmetrical-looking nose, Dr. Ortiz’s talents in rhinoplasty will achieve the desired results. Get started on your journey of getting the nose of your dreams, please contact us today at 919-532-2270 or fill out the contact form below.