WHAT IS RHINOPLASTY?
Rhinoplasty is usually called a “nose job,” and can be indicated for a variety of reasons, both aesthetic and functional. The reshaping of the nose may be needed after a traumatic event, resection of a lesion, an inborn structural problem, or for cosmetic reasons alone. This procedure can enhance facial harmony by improving the nose’s proportion in relation to the rest of the face or change the shape of the nose itself to a more favorable form or better function for breathing.
The upper nose is made of bone, and the lower two-thirds is made of cartilage, both of which can be changed during a nasal procedure. Some things that rhinoplasty specifically treats are the:
- Size of the nose
- Contour of the nasal profile, such as a hump or bump
- Width or straightness of the nasal bridge
- Appearance of the nasal tip, such as making a large tip appear more petite
- Adjustment of the angle between the nose and the upper lip
- Opening width of the nostrils and respiratory function
- Symmetry of features that differ between right or left sides of the nose
- Realignment of the septum of the nose (also known as “septoplasty”)
- Reduction of the nasal cavity lining structures (called “turbinates”)
If you are interested in a nose job for any reason, keep in mind that this procedure requires surgery in an operating room and you should expect some recovery time. Rhinoplasty is usually performed by a surgeon with advanced training in plastic and reconstructive surgery. Simple nasal surgery can be performed as an outpatient surgery in an ambulatory surgical center or in a surgeon`s office, though complex procedures may take longer and require more recovery time. But improved breathing, facial balance and alignment of your nose are all possible with this procedure.
If you would like to learn more about rhinoplasty, reach out to Kristopher M. Day, MD, FACS by emailing Info@KrisDayPlasticSurgery.com to schedule a complementary consultation. Dr. Day has specialized training in surgery of the face and nose and would be happy talk to you more about rhinoplasty or other plastic surgery procedures!
