What is a rhinoplasty (aka “nose job”)?
A rhinoplasty is a surgery done to change the appearance of the nose or to gain access to the different cartilages of the nose to perform a functional airway surgery. Therefore, a rhinoplasty can be done for both cosmetic reasons as well as functional reasons. Insurance usually covers functional rhinoplasty. The incisions for rhinoplasty can be both external or internal (inside the nose) just depending on what the goals are for surgery.
What kind of cosmetic changes can be made to the nose?
The types of cosmetic changes that can be made to the nose are dependent on the patient’s nasal structure, facial features, skin type, and overall goals of surgery. Typically, at the pre-operative consultation, standard photographs are taken of the patient and then these images can be morphed or changed by specialized imaging software. This can give the patient an idea of some of the changes that can be made
What is the downtime after nose surgery?
The typical recovery time after nasal surgery is about 1 week. It is important to avoid any heavy lifting or strenuous exercise for this week. In addition, it is advisable to take off from school or work as there is usually some pain after surgery and also possibly some bruising after surgery.
What kind of pain can I expect after surgery?
You can expect some nasal soreness for the first day or two after surgery. The pain subsides fairly quickly for most people and is usually gone by one week. Occasionally some small splints are used in the nose that can cause some mild congestion, but these do not usually cause pain.
I also have trouble breathing through my nose…can that be fixed at the same time as my cosmetic surgery?
Typically, any functional nasal airway surgery (surgery to correct nasal obstruction) that is necessary can be done at the same time as the cosmetic surgery. This does not typically change the cost of the cosmetic surgery; but if you are having cosmetic nasal surgery and you want to improve your nasal breathing it is a good idea to address both concerns at the same time. Our nasal surgery experts can walk you through the process.