A Cosmetic Surgeon’s Perspective on Rhinoplasty Surgery

Learning about a nose job (rhinoplasty)

Often referred to as nose reshaping or even as a nose job, rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that changes the appearance and proportion of the nose for cosmetic purpose or to correct and improve breathing problems.

A cosmetic plastic surgeon can perform this procedure to change the nose’s size and width at the bridge and the nostrils. Common corrections requested by New York City patients include:

 eliminating humps or depressions on the bridge

 reducing tips that are enlarged, bulbous, drooping, hooked or upturned

 eliminating nasal asymmetry

Although all faces and noses are asymmetrical to a certain extent, this procedure is typically performed to help patients achieve greater facial balance and proportion.

Correct breathing problems

Correcting a deviated septum is one of the most common breathing problems that may be corrected by rhinoplasty. All surgeries performed to correct obstructed airways require careful evaluation of the nasal structure in relation to breathing and airflow prior to execution of the procedure.

Are you a candidate for rhinoplasty?

Candidates for rhinoplasty are physically healthy, have complete facial growth, do not smoke and have realistic goals regarding the outcome of their intended cosmetic surgery. The procedure is performed under local or general anesthesia. When utilizing a closed procedure, incisions are hidden inside the nose, while open procedures use incisions across the columella, the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils. Through these incisions, skin that covers nasal bones and cartilage is gently raise to achieve reshaping. Tissue is sometimes removed for larger noses.

What to expect following your nose job

Patients usually return home with a splint or packing placed inside their nose along with bandages on the outside to protect initial healing. Although swelling disappears within a few weeks, the new nasal contour may take up to a year to fully form.

A reconstructive and cosmetic plastic surgeon will have the tools necessary to offer a successful rhinoplasty procedure with positive results. Contact Dr. Schwarcz’s office to determine whether you may benefit from rhinoplasty.