A nose surgery – also known as a rhinoplasty or a ‘nose job’ – is a procedure used to change the shape and proportion of the nose. It has gradually grown in popularity over the past few decades and is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries in America for women and men. Many people pursue rhinoplasty in an effort to define or minimize certain characteristics, such as the nasal tip, the width of the bridge, nasal asymmetry, or humps and depressions visible along the nose profile. Most often, these traits are a result of genetics. However, some individuals require nose surgery to correct misshapen noses caused by injury or facial trauma. Additionally, some rhinoplasty patients undergo the procedure to correct structural abnormalities that may be an obstruction to breathing.
During your individualized consultation with Dr. Nagy, you will discuss why you are seeking rhinoplasty, your aesthetic goals, any breathing concerns, and develop your customized plan. Dr. Nagy often performs image morphing during the consultation to give you an idea of realistic results and to make sure you are aligned with your goals.
Dr. Nagy is double board certified in both functional nasal surgery and facial plastic surgery, therefore, she is a specialist in rhinoplasty to improve both the appearance and breathing of the nose. She tailors each surgery to the patient and understands the individual approach needed for ethnic rhinoplasty such as with African American, Asian, and Mediterranean patients.
Did you know…
that unlike most other types of cosmetic procedures, the results of a rhinoplasty can take as long as a year or more to become fully refined? Immediately following the procedure, patients experience swelling that lasts several months and fluctuates. Even after swelling subsides, the cartilage will continue to evolve and take on a more permanent shape over time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I a candidate for rhinoplasty?
You may be a candidate for rhinoplasty if you are a non-smoker and in good physical health. Nose surgery is generally reserved for patients who are at least 14 years of age with fully developed facial features. An assessment will be done of the external shape and breathing function of your nose. You’ll need to consult with your rhinoplasty surgeon to determine whether the procedure is right for you.
What should I expect during a nose surgery?
Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia, so it will be important to avoid eating and drinking on the day of your procedure. Your surgeon will make an incision on the inside of your nose or on the outside of your nose between your nostrils. From that incision, steps will be taken to either reduce the underlying nose structure or otherwise augment it with cartilage grafts taken from your septum. The surgery generally takes 1-3 hours.
Will I need to follow any post-operative instructions after my nose surgery?
When you awaken, your nose will be bandaged and in a splint to facilitate healing that stays in place for 1 week. It is preferable that you take time off school or work during this time. Your surgeon may provide specific instructions to avoid certain activities in the weeks following your procedure. You may also be prescribed medications to help with pain, swelling or to prevent infection. The swelling surrounding your nose will subside after a few weeks although it will take many months for the contour of your nose to take its final shape.
