Nose Surgery

When you are unhappy with the way your nose looks, it can create serious self-confidence issues. The nose sits front and center on your face, so abnormalities like a bulbous tip or a large bump on the bridge of the nose may lead you to seek a permanent solution.

At Dr. Andrews Plastic Surgery, we offer a surgical procedure called rhinoplasty to enhance the overall appearance of the nose. Also referred to as a “nose job,” nose surgery or nose sculpting, this cosmetic procedure helps to improve the shape, structure and proportional balance of the nose*.

Your Consultation

The most important first step your rhinoplasty consult is a candid discussion of your cosmetic goals. This will allow Dr. Andrews to understand your expectations and will facilitate a discussion of what is possible. Both the inside and outside of your nose will then be thoroughly examined. Factors such as the thickness of your skin, the location and structure of your nasal bones and cartilage, and the overall dimensions of your nose compared with the rest of your facial features will all be taken into consideration.

While this initial visit will allow your surgeon to determine if rhinoplasty is right for you, it is also a great opportunity to ask questions. The procedure, recovery timeline and final expectations will all be discussed with you.

The Methods

There are two different surgical techniques used in rhinoplasty, either open or closed. In the closed technique, the incisions are all made within the nose, totally hidden from plain view—which is ideal for those who only require a minor change. With the open method, in addition to hidden incisions within the nose, a tiny incision is made through the column of skin between the nostrils. The open procedure gives your surgeon a more direct view of the nasal structures, allowing them to more precisely sculpt your nose when a more significant change is desired. The appropriate technique for you will depend on your aesthetic goals and the specifics of your nasal anatomy.

The Procedure

Rhinoplasty is typically performed with general anesthesia but may be performed with sedation (“twilight sleep”) and local anesthesia. The type of anesthetic will be determined by the extent of the change that is required and the comfort desires of the patient.

At the inception of surgery, Dr. Andrews will mark your nose to guide incision placement. After the incisions are made, the soft tissue is elevated off the cartilage and bone. Changes can be made to the cartilage and bone, depending on the specific anatomy and the aesthetic desires of the patient. Reduction of a hump on the bridge often requires removal of both bone and cartilage. Refinement of the tip commonly requires suturing techniques. Cartilage may be removed from the septum to improve breathing and to provide necessary cartilage for grafting if required to buttress weak cartilage and to provide structure and nasal reshaping. Small incisions may be made in the bones, called osteotomies, if necessary to reshape the nose.

The incisions are closed with a combination of absorbable and permanent sutures which are removed in 1 week. Often, nasal splints are placed on the nose and in the nostrils to support the nose and to assist with healing.

Following rhinoplasty, patients may experience some mild-to-moderate pain, bruising and swelling around the face and eyes. We wish our patients the most pain-free experience possible, so you will be prescribed medication to help ease any discomfort. About a week after surgery, you will see us for a follow-up visit so we can remove any stitches, bandages, and splints, as well as check how your nose is healing. Some patients also choose to take the plant extracts Arnica Montana and Bromelain which can decrease post-procedure bruising and swelling.

Many of our patients feel well enough to return to work and normal everyday activities about a week after surgery, but we suggest limiting any strenuous activities for at least a month*.

Ideal Candidates

While nose surgery is most commonly sought by those looking to make their nose smaller or to achieve a more pleasing, symmetrical shape there are other benefits of the procedure. Rhinoplasty can also be beneficial for those with a deviated septum or narrow airways, both of which can affect breathing. Additionally, nasal surgery is also able to correct deformities after nasal trauma.*

*Individual results may vary.

We typically require our nose surgery clients to be at least 13 years old to ensure the face has reached its full growth, but this can be discussed during your consultation. The best way to learn if you are a good candidate is by scheduling a consultation with Dr. Andrews.

Whether you are on the fence about rhinoplasty surgery or have specific questions, an initial consultation can help to address some of your concerns. Give us a call today at 319-800-6877.