The nose may arguably represent the most prominent feature that an individual possesses. Its immediate visibility lends it to easy scrutiny by all. Many individuals will develop nasal features which are out of proportion to the facial structure.

These disproportionate features may include bumps (dorsal hump), wide nostrils or nasal bones, large prominent nasal tips and other deformities. Rhinoplasty surgery has been the answer to many of these issues for millions of individuals around the world.

The rhinoplasty procedure has been subject to changes over the past three or four decades from a blind (closed), remove all you can approach a frequently direct vision (open), preserve and remodel the existing structures approach. The closed rhinoplasty involves incisions limited to the inside of the nose.

The open rhinoplasty involves incisions inside of the nose and a small incision across the columella of the nose. Occasionally, your plastic surgeon may recommend incisions at the base of your nostrils if a nostril narrowing procedure is indicated. The surgery may or may not involve the breaking of the nasal bones depending on your needs to achieve a result proportionate to the facial features.

Rhinoplasty surgery may take from an hour or less to 2 or 3 hours, depending on how much work is required. It may be performed with sedation/local or general anesthesia. A small nasal splint may in place and occasionally packing inside of the nose, which usually remain for only a few days.

Swelling and bruising may be present for approximately one week and is usually worse if the nasal bones require breaking. The use of saltwater (saline) nose drops for one or two weeks following packing removal may be recommended to keep the nasal lining tissues clean and moist and to clear any debris.

Follow-up visits occur 2 to 3 days after surgery, one to 2 weeks later, 6 weeks after surgery and every 3 to 6 months for a year or so. The results of your rhinoplasty will be visible 4 to 6 weeks after surgery, however, minor healing changes may continue for one year, at which time your new nose will have achieved its final, better-proportioned appearance.

For a rhinoplasty in New York City or Manhattan – contact board certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Francis.

More Nose Surgery before & after photos