Rhinoplasty (surgery to reshape the nose) can change the size of your nose (smaller or bigger), take off a hump, change the shape of the tip, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip. It may also correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing problems by straightening the septum. There are so many possible ways to change the appearance of the nose that it is important that you have a specific idea of what you would like corrected.

Surgery

The nose takes its shape from the cartilage and bony framework that underlies the skin. This delicate relationship between these structures is what is altered during the reshaping process. By removing, adding, or changing the position of the cartilages, bones and soft tissue, your desired nose shape can be achieved. In many instances, all of the incisions will be placed inside your nose, where they will not be visible. Small wedges of skin, as shown, are removed to narrow the base of the nose or reduce the width of the nostrils.

Incisions are hidden in the natural crease where the nostril joins the cheek. Sometimes a very short incision is made across the vertical strip of tissue that separates the nostrils, called the columella. This technique is called an "open rhinoplasty." Whatever incisions are used to reshape your nose, they will ultimately be very inconspicuous. Sometimes, the position of certain bones may need to be altered slightly in order to make your nose look narrower and straighter. If your nose needs to be built up in some areas, this can be done using nasal cartilage, or perhaps bone or cartilage from another site. The skin and soft tissues then redrape themselves over this new "scaffolding."

Some of the potential complications include hematoma (an accumulation of blood under the skin that may require removal), infection and reactions to anesthesia. Numbness of the skin following rhinoplasty may occur but is usually temporary. Occasionally, if the surgical outcome needs further improvement, additional surgery may be necessary.

Post surgery

Generally, bruising around the eyes and cheeks is most apparent during the first three days following surgery. Most discoloration will disappear within a week.  Noticeable swelling may last for several weeks. Minor residual swelling, most frequently affecting the nasal tip, may continue for many months, but generally this should not be apparent to others. If packing was used, it will either dissolve by itself or be removed three to seven days after surgery. Stitches may also be removed at that time. You may need to continue wearing the nasal splint for up to a week, during which time you should avoid getting it wet.

You may be able to return to work within a few days to a week after surgery. Most normal activities including exercise can usually be resumed within three weeks.

Result

The goal of rhinoplasty is a nose that looks natural and blends harmoniously with your other facial features. Since the healing process is gradual, you should expect to wait up to one year to see the final results of your rhinoplasty. You are likely to begin enjoying your new look within weeks of your surgery.