If you’re unhappy with the size or shape of your nose, you might be considering rhinoplasty. A “nose job” can significantly improve the appearance and function of your nose.
What is Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)?
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that involves the reshaping and restructuring of the nose. Though it is most often a cosmetic surgery, rhinoplasty can also be used to improve the function of the nose.
Board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Stein specializes in facial procedures and offers multiple types of rhinoplasty tailored to each patient’s needs. He can perform rhinoplasty to achieve various goals, including correcting the shape of the nose, reducing its size, or improving breathing.
How Does Rhinoplasty Work?
During a rhinoplasty procedure, Dr. Stein makes incisions in the nose to access the underlying bone and cartilage. He then sculpts the nose to the desired shape, removing or adding tissue as necessary. Once the surgery is complete, he closes the incisions, and your nose is bandaged and splinted to protect it during recovery.
Open Rhinoplasty vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
The difference between open and closed rhinoplasty is the placement of the incision. Closed rhinoplasty only involves incisions within the nostrils, so there isn’t any visible scarring. However, this also limits the surgeon’s access. During open or external rhinoplasty, Dr. Stein makes a small incision between the nostrils to have better access.
Some patients prefer closed rhinoplasty because there is no scarring. Since the closed method is more limited, it’s best for minor concerns and subtle improvements.
The benefit of open rhinoplasty is that Dr. Stein can significantly change your nose structure, giving you dramatic improvement. Additionally, Dr. Stein has extensive experience with this procedure and can make the incision within the natural creases of your skin. Open rhinoplasty offers superior results for some patients, and the scar is still inconspicuous.
What to Expect After Rhinoplasty
Regardless of which technique is used, rhinoplasty recovery is fairly quick. You can expect swelling and bruising, and you’ll need to wear splints for approximately one week. Patients typically return to work in a week or two. Though you’ll see improvements within the first month, it can take several months to see the full results of rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty can greatly improve the appearance of your nose and enhance your facial harmony. Some of the concerns rhinoplasty can correct include:
- An overly large nose
- Wide or flared nostrils
- A misshapen or crooked nose
- An overly arched bridge
- A deviated septum
- Breathing problems
- A broken nose
Am I a Good Candidate for Open Rhinoplasty?
You’re likely a candidate for rhinoplasty if you have cosmetic or functional concerns about your nose. Dr. Stein may recommend open rhinoplasty for patients who need significant structural changes or want dramatic results. He’ll help you determine whether rhinoplasty is right for you and which technique is best during your consultation.
Take the Next Step
Are you interested in rhinoplasty? If you would like to schedule an in-person consultation, please fill out the form on this page or call (919) 261-7099, and one of our knowledgeable medical staff members at Stein Plastic Surgery will reach out to you promptly.
Stein Plastic Surgery is located in the Raleigh, Durham, and Southeast NC areas serving patients.