Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, often called “nose reshaping,” is a surgical procedure that can change the look of the nose, help improve nasal breathing, or address changes from an injury, previous surgery, or differences present from birth. The goal is to create a result that looks natural, works well, and fits your facial features and health needs. During your consultation, the care team will look at your nasal structure, breathing concerns, medical history, skin thickness, and personal goals to decide whether rhinoplasty is a good option for you. Treatment may involve reshaping bone, cartilage, or soft tissue, and in some cases it may be done together with septoplasty to help correct a deviated septum and improve airflow. Like any surgery, rhinoplasty works best with careful planning, realistic expectations, and a clear conversation about recovery, possible risks, and follow-up care.

What Rhinoplasty Can Address

Rhinoplasty may be considered for cosmetic, functional, or reconstructive reasons, including:

• Nasal bridge shape, height, or contour
• Nasal tip size, projection, or rotation
• Nostril shape or asymmetry
• A crooked or deviated nasal structure
• Breathing difficulty related to internal nasal obstruction
• Changes after trauma or previous nasal surgery
• Structural concerns related to birth differences

Consultation and Evaluation

During a rhinoplasty consultation, the care team reviews your medical history, nasal breathing, facial structure, skin thickness, and personal goals. A physical examination may include evaluation of the nasal septum, nasal valves, and airway.

Your provider will discuss realistic expectations, potential benefits, limitations, and whether rhinoplasty alone or combined functional nasal surgery may be appropriate.

Surgical Approach

Rhinoplasty is typically performed using either an open or closed approach. The best technique depends on your anatomy and treatment goals.

• Open rhinoplasty: Uses a small incision across the columella, the tissue between the nostrils, allowing detailed access to nasal structures.
• Closed rhinoplasty: Uses incisions placed inside the nostrils, with no external incision.

In some cases, cartilage grafting may be used to support nasal shape or improve airflow. Cartilage may come from the septum, ear, or rib, depending on what is medically appropriate.

Recovery

Recovery varies by patient and procedure complexity. Swelling and bruising are common during the early healing period. Many patients return to light daily activities within 1–2 weeks, depending on their provider’s guidance.

Nasal swelling improves gradually, but final refinement can take several months to a year. Following post-operative instructions carefully helps support safe healing and optimal results.

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgery, rhinoplasty has potential risks. These may include bleeding, infection, scarring, changes in sensation, nasal obstruction, asymmetry, dissatisfaction with appearance, or the need for revision surgery.

Your surgeon will review these risks in detail and help determine whether the procedure is appropriate for your health status and goals.

When to Seek Medical Attention

After surgery, contact your care team promptly if you experience:

• Heavy or persistent bleeding
• Fever or signs of infection
• Severe pain not relieved by prescribed medication
• Sudden worsening of swelling
• Difficulty breathing that feels urgent
• Any symptom that concerns you

Patient-Centered Care

Rhinoplasty is a highly individualized procedure. A safe and successful treatment plan begins with careful evaluation, clear communication, and shared decision-making between you and your care team.