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Nasal Cosmetic Surgery (Rhinoplasty):

Nasal cosmetic surgery improves the appearance and proportions of your nose. Sometimes the surgery is done to correct impaired breathing caused by structural abnormalities.

Who is an Ideal Candidate? | Procedure Description | Recuperation and Healing | What to Expect (Results) | Insurance Coverage

Who is an Ideal Candidate?

People with:

Abnormal appearance of the nose as a result of genetics, injury or disease.
A nose that they feel is cosmetically unattractive or does not "fit" with their other facial features.

Procedure Description

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia.
Incisions can almost always be hidden inside the nose. Bones, cartilage and soft tissues are reshaped, as appropriate.
If only the nasal tip is abnormal, there is usually a very minimal bruising.
Large nostrils may be reduced through tiny incisions at the outer base of the nostrils with either type of rhinoplasty.

Recuperation and Healing

The patient goes home with an external tape or splint in place. The tape or splint is usually removed in one week.
Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication.
Majority of swelling and bruising subsides progressively over one to two weeks.
Internal sutures dissolve over two to four weeks.
Semifinal result is evident in three months. Final result is evident in 6 to 12 months, which is the time necessary for complete tissue softening.

What to Expect (Results)

A more attractive nasal shape and a nose in better proportion to other facial features.
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Insurance Coverage

Insurance will sometimes pay for the procedure if breathing is impaired. Otherwise, the procedure is considered cosmetic and not normally covered by insurance, in which case the patient is responsible for the cost.
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