Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that we perform to reshape or change the shape of the nose. Candidates for rhinoplasty are patients who have problems with their nose that we can readily identify, and also who have realistic expectations regarding what we can do with their nose. Most patients interested in rhinoplasty are looking for changes in the bump on the bridge of their nose, the size of the nose, or the shape or width of the tip of the nose. The procedure is delicate in the sense that, oftentimes, patients are looking more for a subtle change and not a real dramatic change in their appearance. The keys to a successful rhinoplasty involve careful patient selection, as well as management of their expectations in terms of what we can actually achieve with the surgery. Rhinoplasty can be performed with either an open or closed technique. An open technique involves lifting the skin up off the nose so that the underlying structures can be viewed directly, whereas a closed technique is done using a blind approach. Both techniques are performed today, and it usually depends on what the patient's problems and goals are that helps us determine which approach would be better for that patient. Most patients can expect an uncomplicated recovery. There is some swelling and bruising, and oftentimes will take several weeks to go away. However, most patients can have their splints and stitches removed within a week and are ready to appear in public, when they can cover it with makeup after about 7 to 10 days. There is more information for this and other procedures throughout our web site. We offer free consultations. We encourage anybody with additional questions to contact our office to schedule an appointment.