Nose reshaping is intended to produce a more attractive nasal shape and/or a nose in better proportion to other facial features. Rhinoplasty is done on an outpatient basis under sedation, and local or general anesthesia. Your plastic surgeon will decide which of the following techniques should be used:

STANDARD RHINOPLASTY: Incisions are made inside the nostrils. The nasal bones, cartilage, and soft tissues are reshaped to improve the external contour.

OPEN RHINOPLASTY: Frequently used for difficult or larger noses. Involves one external incision across the columella (strut between the nostrils). Bones, cartilage, and soft tissues are reshaped under direct vision.

TIP-PLASTY: If only the nasal tip is abnormal, it may be corrected with either a standard or external (open) approach.

Large nostrils may be reduced through tiny incisions at the outer base of the nostrils with either type of rhinoplasty.

The patient goes home with an external cast or splint in place. The nose may be packed for 24-48 hours. The cast or splint is usually removed in 7-10 days. Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication. The majority of swelling and bruising subsides progressively over 2-4 weeks. External sutures (if any) are removed in 4-6 days. Internal sutures will dissolve.

The semifinal result of a nose reshaping procedure is evident in 3 months. The final result is evident in 12-14 months. An additional procedure that may enhance the result is a chin enlargement. If you need to improve your breathing, correction of a deviated septum (Septoplasty) may also be appropriate.

Rhinoplasty is not covered by insurance if being done for cosmetic reasons. If however, the nasal deformity is due to recent injury, insurance coverage may be available. Pre-authorization information can be obtained from your insurance company.

The specific risks and the suitability of nose reshaping for a given individual can be determined only at the time of consultation. All surgical procedures have some degree of risk. Minor complications that do not affect the outcome occur occasionally. Major complications are unusual.

Surgery can be performed under general anesthesia with local anesthesia depending on patient or doctor's preference. Incisions are made inside the nostrils sometimes; tiny incisions are also made on the columella, the bit of skin that separates the nostrils. The surgeon first separates soft tissues of the nose from the underlying structures, then reshapes the cartilage and bone which causes the deformity.

In some cases the surgeon may shape a small piece of the patients own cartilage or bone to strengthen or increase the structure of the nose. This is done for cosmetic reasons or to improve breathing and function of the nose. In rarer cases a synthetic implant may be used to reconstruct the nose if the normal structure of the bone and cartilage is badly damaged or weakened. Alloplastic synthetic are often associated with long term complications alternatively, cartilage from the septum, ear on rib may be used.