Rhinoplasty or a “nose job,” as it is most commonly referred to, is a surgery performed on the nose. Most patients seeking a rhinoplasty procedure wish to decrease the size of their nose and improve the overall symmetry of their face. The nose can also be operated on to increase its size, decrease its size, or alter the shape of the bridge.

What to Consider

A rhinoplasty operation can greatly alter the shape of the nose and has serious side effects. In general, swelling, bruising, and tenderness of the nose will occur following surgery. The operation can also affect the breathing and nasal passages. The rhinoplasty procedure is a very detailed operation in which the surgeon must make sure the symmetry of the nose is kept natural.

Surgery

Most rhinoplasty operations last from one to two hours. The first step in the procedure requires that the skin on the area that is to be changed be removed. This exposes the bone and cartilage beneath it. The surgeon then alters the removed skin and molds it to match the desires of the patient. In the final step, the surgeon will reattach the newly shaped skin back over the bone and cartilage. Generally, the incisions are made within the nose. This procedure from within the nose can be regarded as difficult because of the lack of space in which to operate. This lack of space has led many surgeons to perform the operation from the exterior by splitting the nose tissue apart.

Post surgical rhinoplasty is a very important step that is focused on insuring the proper setting of the nose. During post surgery, the nose is held in place by a splint-like device that will remain until the bone and skin have healed. On average, the splint will stay in place for a week to a week and a half. The inside of the nose will contain gauzes that will impede free breathing. The new shape of the nose will be completely formed within three months of the operation. There are some moderate to severe side effects. Common side effects include pain and swelling of the nose. More serious side effects are infection, healing problems, and nose bleeds.