Face Procedures > Rhinoplasty (Nose)

Rhinoplasty, cosmetic surgery of the nose, helps bring the nose into harmony with the face. This is accomplished by modifying its shape, size and appearance. The nose has a significant influence on self-image. Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, can shorten or lengthen the nose, change its shape or contour, narrow the nostrils, or lift and define the tip.

Dr. Shafer takes into account nasal features, the skin of the nose, and what you would like changed. The noses upper half is bone, and the lower half is cartilage. Nose surgery can modify bone, cartilage or both.

Deviation of the septum the cartilage and bone structure that support the nose and separate it internally into two sides is a common condition. A deviated septum can cause breathing difficulty. That problem, if present, may be corrected during the surgery. This procedure is known as septoplasty. Rhinoplasty or septoplasty does not improve allergies or nasal swelling.

Key Facts

Anesthesia: General
Length of procedure: 1 to 3 hours
Length of stay: Home same day
Discomfort: Mild to moderate. If nasal bones are broken as part of the surgery, expect 5 to 10 days of prescription pain medication.
Anticipate: Swelling for 1 to 6 months and bruising 7 to 10 days
Recovery: May require a cast for 5 to 7 days
Final result: 1 to 2 years as the tissues settle and swelling resolves
Duration of results: Lasting

Because the chin is an important reference point in relationship to the nose, chin enhancement may be recommended to further enhance your profile and make the chin more prominent.

Because rhinoplasty involves changing the bone and cartilage of the nose, it is considered among the more complex cosmetic surgeries. The risk of complications exists, as does the potential need for revision surgery to improve the initial result. It is essential to find a surgeon who is experienced in this procedure and who clearly understands how the patient wishes to change the noses appearance.
A successful outcome is most likely if patients know what they want to change and are willing to accept the limitations of surgery. Patients must be willing to become accustomed to a new nose and the way it alters their appearance. Good communication with the surgeon is essential.

Most patients are pleased with the results of rhinoplasty. The surgery can inspire new confidence and reduce feelings of self-consciousness.

Despite taking steps to minimize risks associated with the surgery, the possibility remains that rhinoplasty surgery will not meet your expectations. Approximately 10 to 20 percent of patients are not as satisfied as they had hoped with the results of surgery. Some need further surgery to achieve their desired results.

What to expect

The approach used for surgery depends on the desired results and the surgeons decision on how to perform the procedure. Dr. Shafer may make incisions only inside the nose closed rhinoplasty. Dr. Shafer may elect to perform open rhinoplasty, which involves making a small incision at the underside of the nasal tip. This approach allows Dr. Shafer to see more of the noses internal structures.

Working through the incisions, Dr. Shafer sculpts bone and cartilage to achieve the desired shape. The surgeon may reposition the bones in the nose or build up certain areas using cartilage or bones taken from elsewhere on the body. The skin and soft tissues are then repositioned over the reshaped nose. If the nose is being narrowed or the nostrils reduced, wedges of skin at the base of the nostrils will be removed through incisions that can then be hidden in the noses natural creases.

Following surgery, Dr. Shafer will prescribe medications to control any discomfort. A splint may will be applied to the bridge of the nose to protect it and to stabilize internal tissues. A bandage may be applied beneath the nose and/or packing may be placed inside the nostrils, particularly if one goal of the procedure was to improve breathing. Patients will be provided with ice packs for their eyes to be used for three days after surgery to reduce swelling and bruising. Elevating the head is also recommended for three days following surgery.

Risks