Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that alters the shape and size of the nose to improve its appearance or function. It is one of the most common plastic surgery procedures and can address a variety of concerns. Cosmetic enhancements through rhinoplasty can modify the nose’s shape, size, and angle to create a more harmonious balance with other facial features. It can straighten a crooked nose, reduce a hump on the bridge, refine the nasal tip, and adjust the width of the nostrils.
Beyond cosmetic changes, rhinoplasty can also correct structural issues that impair breathing, such as a deviated septum or other nasal obstructions. In cases of injury or congenital defects, rhinoplasty can reconstruct the nose to restore its appearance and functionality. The procedure typically involves various techniques, including the removal or addition of bone and cartilage, grafting, and reshaping.
What is the recovery time for rhinoplasty?
Recovery times vary, but most people can return to work or school within 1-2 weeks. Swelling and bruising are common and may take several weeks to fully subside. It may take up to a year for the final shape of the nose to be fully apparent.
How long do the results of rhinoplasty last?
The results of rhinoplasty are generally permanent, although the aging process can affect the appearance of the nose over time.
My nose is too big. Can you make it smaller?
Yes! Dr Peterson frequently performs rhinoplasty to reduce the size of the nose. He will also carefully address other portions of the nose such as the nasal tip and the nasal bones rather to achieve a result which appears as balanced and natural as possible.
Is rhinoplasty cosmetic or reconstructive?
Rhinoplasty may be cosmetic or reconstructive but most procedures have elements of both. Dr. Peterson will always address the functional/breathing component in every procedure, whether it is performed for aesthetics reasons or not. In functional/reconstructive procedures, Dr. Peterson will specifically review the details of each case with every patient.
Why get a Rhinoplasty?
People get rhinoplasty for many reasons. Some want to change how their nose looks, like its size or shape. Others need it to fix problems like trouble breathing or to repair the nose after an injury. It’s also used in surgeries to fix a cleft palate.
Having a nose job can make a big difference in how someone feels about themselves. Since the nose is right in the middle of the face, changing it a little can make the whole face look better. This can make people feel more confident and happy.
Rhinoplasty has gotten better over time, so now it’s safer and the results are more predictable. Doctors can use pictures and computer imaging to show patients how their nose might look after the surgery. This helps people know what to expect and feel good about their choice.
What to expect?
When getting a rhinoplasty at our clinic in Draper, you can expect the procedure to be performed under general anesthesia. The surgery involves reshaping the bone and cartilage of the nose to achieve the desired shape and size. This may include reducing the size of the nose, changing its angle, or removing a hump. In cases of a deviated septum, the correction may involve making an incision inside the nose or using an open approach. For flared nostrils, an incision may be made at the junction between the nose and the upper lip.
Dr. Petersen, an expert in facial surgery, will discuss how the changes to your nose will complement your facial features. He will provide digital photographs and computer imaging to help you visualize the potential outcomes. The surgery will involve separating the skin from the underlying structure, reshaping the bone and cartilage, and then re-draping the skin over the new shape.
Recovery typically takes one to two weeks, with swelling and bruising being common. A lightweight splint will be applied to your nose to maintain its new shape, usually removed after a week. Nasal splints may also be inserted to protect your septum. Throughout the process, Dr. Petersen will ensure that your goals for the surgery are met and that the results enhance your overall facial profile.
Before and After
