Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty)
Whether imperfections of the nose are related to trauma or genetics, nose reshaping is performed to help the nose achieve a harmonious balance with the other features of the face. The changes can be subtle or dramatic, based on the patient’s individual goals.
Click here to view Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty) before and after examples.
Reasons to Consider Rhinoplasty
- Reduce the size of a large nose or otherwise make the nose more proportional.
- Change the bridge or tip of the nose for a more pleasing shape.
- Nose surgery can also be used to correct injury or deformity (some corrective or reconstructive nose procedures may be covered by insurance).
Rhinoplasty FAQ
1. How will my Plastic Surgical Arts surgeon evaluate me for rhinoplasty?
You should come to the consultation prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions you may have, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries, including repair of nasal injuries, and medications that you currently take. Your surgeon may also ask whether you have difficulty breathing through your nose, suffer from allergies that may cause nasal stuffiness, or are a chronic user of nasal spray. It is important for you to provide complete information.
In evaluating you for rhinoplasty, we will conduct a routine and painless examination of your internal nasal structures. Your skin quality as well as the size and shape of your nose and its relationship to your other facial features will be carefully studied. In some instances, your rhinoplasty may be combined with other procedures to improve overall facial balance.
2. What will the day of surgery be like?
Your rhinoplasty may be performed our in-office surgical suite, the Lincoln Surgical Hospital or St. Elizabeth Regional Medical Center.
Medications are administered for your comfort during the procedure. Frequently, local anesthesia and intravenous sedation are used for patients undergoing nose reshaping, although general anesthesia may be desirable in some instances. For your safety during the operation, various monitors are used to check your heart, blood pressure, pulse and the amount of oxygen circulating in your blood.
When surgery is completed, you will be taken into a recovery area where you will continue to be closely monitored. There may be some discomfort, but this can be controlled by medication that you may continue taking at home. Depending on the surgical technique used, a splint may have been placed on the bridge of your nose for the purpose of holding the tissues in place until they have stabilized. The splint will protect your nose while you sleep and shield it from accidental bumps. Frequently, you may also have a small triangular bandage beneath the tip of your nose. Packing or soft internal splints are sometimes used inside the nostrils, especially if work has been done to improve your breathing.
You probably will be permitted to go home after a few hours, although some patients may stay overnight in the hospital or surgical facility.
3. How long will the results last?
In most instances, the results of rhinoplasty are permanent, except for possible changes associated with the normal aging process.