RHINOPLASTY

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a cosmetic surgery procedure performed for aesthetic improvement and/or to address breathing problems associated with a deviated septum, birth defect, or trauma. The upper portion of the nose consists mainly of bone, while the lower portion is formed by cartilage and soft tissue. Rhinoplasty may involve reshaping bone, cartilage, soft tissue, or all three.

Why Have a Rhinoplasty?

The nose plays an important role in facial balance and overall appearance. Rhinoplasty may be considered to improve the relationship between the nose and the rest of the face, as well as to address certain functional concerns.

Improve the size and shape of the nose in relation to facial balance
Correct visible humps or depressions on the nasal bridge
Improve nasal asymmetry
Improve the size or position of the nostrils
Address certain breathing problems

There are two main approaches to rhinoplasty: open and closed rhinoplasty. Each technique has its own advantages and limitations, and the appropriate method is selected according to the patient's anatomy, the complexity of the case, and the surgical plan.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty may be considered for aesthetic improvement or to address breathing problems. Patients should have realistic expectations regarding surgery, recovery, and results.

You are in good overall physical and mental health
You have realistic expectations about the outcome
You have a crooked or deviated septum
You have a bump on the bridge of the nose
You have a wide nose or a thick, asymmetric, overly projecting, or drooping nasal tip
You have cosmetic irregularities caused by injury or trauma
You are able to properly rest and recover after surgery
You are at least 18 years old

It is important to remember that every face has a certain degree of natural asymmetry. The goal of rhinoplasty is generally to improve facial balance and proportion rather than create perfect symmetry.

Patients traveling for surgery should plan sufficient time for consultation, surgery, early recovery, and follow-up.

Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

There are two main approaches to reshaping the nose: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. The preferred technique depends on the structure of the nose and the complexity of the required correction.

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty is performed through internal nasal incisions together with a small incision on the columella, the tissue between the nostrils. This approach provides wider access to the underlying bone and cartilage structures.

It may be preferred in complex cases, revision procedures, significantly crooked noses, or cases requiring extensive nasal tip work. The small external scar is generally positioned in a discreet area and may become less noticeable over time.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed rhinoplasty is performed through incisions made entirely inside the nostrils. Since there is no external incision on the columella, no visible external scar is created.

In suitable patients, the closed approach may be associated with less swelling and a shorter early recovery period. The appropriate technique is selected individually after examination.

Rhinoplasty Consultation

The consultation generally begins with photographs for medical documentation and surgical planning. The surgeon then examines the nose and evaluates the relationship between the nasal structures and the rest of the face.

In some cases, surgical markings may be made to assist with planning. The consultation is also an opportunity to discuss expectations, concerns, desired changes, and the limitations of surgery.

What Is Involved in Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty is generally performed under general anesthesia. The procedure begins with incisions made either inside the nose or, in open rhinoplasty, across the columella.

Through these incisions, the tissues covering the nasal bones and cartilage are carefully elevated. The underlying structures may then be reshaped by removing or repositioning bone and cartilage or by adding cartilage grafts when necessary.

Cartilage grafts are commonly obtained from the nasal septum. In some cases, cartilage may also be taken from the ear or, less commonly, the rib.

If the nasal septum is deviated, it may be corrected during surgery to improve the airway and breathing. Once the desired structure has been created, the tissues are repositioned and the incisions are closed.

External and/or internal splints may be used after surgery to support the new nasal shape during the early healing period.

The operation usually takes approximately 1.5 to 2 hours, although the duration may vary depending on the complexity of the procedure.

After Rhinoplasty

After surgery, internal and external nasal splints may be used. Internal splints may be removed within the first few days, while the external splint is generally removed several days later, depending on the surgeon's treatment plan.

Bruising and swelling around the nose and eyes are common during the early recovery period. Some nasal discharge may also occur after the procedure.

Light walking is generally encouraged soon after surgery to support circulation. Strenuous activity should be avoided during the early recovery period.

Patients may stay in the hospital overnight and be discharged the following day, depending on the procedure and recovery.

Pain is often manageable with prescribed medication. Patients are generally advised to keep the head elevated, avoid bending and heavy exertion, and follow the surgeon's instructions regarding cold application.

Light daily activities may usually be resumed within several days, while returning to work often takes approximately 7 to 10 days, depending on the individual recovery process.

Rhinoplasty Aftercare

Care during the first days and weeks after surgery is important for recovery and the final result. Patients should follow all post-operative instructions provided by the surgical team.

Internal and External Nasal Splints

Internal and external splints are used to support the nasal structures during the early healing period. Removal timing varies according to the surgeon's protocol and the type of surgery performed.

Wound Care

Patients may be provided with wound-care instructions, saline nasal spray, and prescribed topical medications. These instructions should be followed carefully to support healthy healing and reduce the risk of complications.

Nutrition

Adequate hydration and a balanced diet are important during recovery. Light foods may be more comfortable during the first few days. Foods or spices that are known to trigger sneezing or irritation may be best avoided during the early healing period.

Exercise After Rhinoplasty

Light walking may generally begin soon after surgery. More demanding physical activity should be resumed gradually according to the surgeon's recommendations.

Light cardiovascular exercise may often be resumed after several weeks. Weight training, heavy lifting, bending, and contact sports usually require a longer recovery period. Patients should receive individual clearance before returning to these activities.

Life After Rhinoplasty Surgery

Although much of the initial swelling improves during the first weeks and months, the final nasal contour may continue to refine for up to a year. Subtle changes may continue throughout this period as the tissues settle.

Swelling may fluctuate during the first year and may appear more noticeable at certain times of the day. Patients are generally advised to protect the nose from trauma during the healing process.

Temporary numbness around the nasal tip, upper front teeth, or roof of the mouth may occur after surgery because of temporary changes in nearby nerves. Sensation usually returns gradually over time.