At the Plastic Surgery Group, many individuals seek our expertise in rhinoplasty because they are concerned that their nose is too wide or excessively large overall. Some patients pursue nose surgery due to an unsightly hump on the bridge of their noses or a hook at the end of their noses. Still others are bothered by the asymmetrical nature of their noses.

In addition, certain individuals suffer from structural nasal problems, such as a deviated septum, that can cause chronic breathing problems. These individuals may be forced to breathe through their mouth or may snore excessively every night.

Individuals who are concerned with the appearance or poor function of their noses might be suitable candidates for rhinoplasty. With rhinoplasty, the New York City plastic surgeon can correct various aesthetic and structural issues, providing either a subtle or dramatic change to the nose to help bring a sense of harmony to the facial features.

(Note: If rhinoplasty is necessary to correct a trauma-induced abnormality or to correct a breathing problem, insurance might cover some of the cost of reconstructive plastic surgery.)

Establishing candidacy for rhinoplasty is best accomplished by scheduling a consultation with an experienced plastic surgeon such as the ones at the Plastic Surgery Group. During consultation, the plastic surgeon can examine patients’ nasal anatomy and listen to their aesthetic concerns before suggesting the most appropriate surgical treatment option to meet each person’s unique needs.

Generally, suitable rhinoplasty candidates include those who:

• Have a positive self-image in general, but feel self-conscious or simply frustrated by the size, shape, asymmetry or poor function of their nose
• Are generally healthy
• Have decided to pursue nose surgery to satisfy a personal concern, not to make someone else happy
• Are not presently pregnant
• Recognize both the potential risks as well as the advantages of undergoing rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis, under general anesthesia.

There are two principal approaches to nose surgery: the open and closed methods. During consultation, the plastic surgeon recommends the approach that is best suited for the patient’s anatomical and aesthetic requirements.

With the open technique, the New Jersey nose surgeon places the incision on the columella, or the strip of skin separating the nostrils. This method gives the surgeon the best possible visibility and, thus, control during rhinoplasty.

With the closed technique, the plastic surgeon makes the incision on the inside of the nose, so the scars are well concealed. Also, this approach typically provides patients with a quicker recovery period. The potential disadvantage of this approach is that the surgeon has less visibility during the procedure than he does with the open method.

With either approach, the rhinoplasty surgeon uses the incision to access the supporting structure of the nose, which is comprised of bone and cartilage. The surgeon then reduces, augments or sculpts the underlying bone and cartilage to improve the size, width, shape, angle, symmetry or structure of the nose.

Once the surgeon is satisfied with the newly sculpted nose, he or she closes the incisions with stitches and dresses the treatment area with bandages. A splint is also placed over the nose to protect and support it while the bone, cartilage and other tissues heal.

Individuals recovering from rhinoplasty should plan to take one to two weeks off from their jobs or everyday activities. For the first few days after surgery, patients should keep their head elevated, even while sleeping. They may feel like their nose is stuffed up and may have to breathe through their mouths for a few days. The nose may be swollen, sore or bruised, and any bruising may extend into the eye region. Individuals should not feel alarmed if they experience the look of “black eyes.” These are normal symptoms that will gradually improve within about 10 days.