Thinking About Rhinoplasty?

A nose job (rhinoplasty) improves the appearance and sometimes function of the structure of your nose, but it can be a difficult choice for some who are wary of undergoing surgery. However, with over 220,000 rhinoplasties performed every year, it is the most common facial plastic surgery, and Dr. Bonaparte has years of experience with this custom technique.

Am I a Good Candidate For a Rhinoplasty?

You may have a medical or cosmetic reasons to request a nose job. People who experience difficulty with breathing may be experiencing some type of nasal obstruction that a rhinoplasty can fix. This condition can interfere with the amount of oxygen you consume while performing daily activities such as exercise, eating, or even sleeping.

A rhinoplasty procedure can correct a deviated nasal septum, which is a common cause for difficulty breathing. By aligning the septum to be straight, both nostrils can intake the full amount of air they’re designed to, helping the patient achieve proper breathing. Rhinoplasties can also reduce swollen nasal turbinates and eliminate bone spurs that may be causing an obstructed airway.

Another reason to request a rhinoplasty is when a patient is not happy with the appearance of their nose. Perhaps you are looking to reduce a nasal hump, improve the nose tip, or improve symmetry. While medical rhinoplasties are usually covered by health insurance, cosmetic ones are not.

What Can I Expect From the Procedure?

The rhinoplasty procedure performed while you are under general anesthesia. Dr. Bonaparte starts by making a tiny incision along the nasal base, which does not leave a permanent scar. Once inside the nasal structure, other internal incisions are made allowing access to the nasal cartilage and bones.

The surgeon improves the nasal passage by reshaping if as necessary carefully adjusting the bones and cartilage. Sometimes, additional cartilage has to be harvested from places such as the ear. After the surgery, the patient can go home the same day requiring no hospitalization.

Recovery After Surgery

Most patients can expect to to return to work or school after about one week. After surgery, the patient should rest most of the day, engaging in only light activities. Icing and nasal cleansing are recommended. Although pain medications are prescribed, most people need them for only a few days after surgery.

You likely won’t be able to breathe through your nose as your nostrils may be packed with dressings. Patients may experience swelling for a few days, which gradually starts to decrease. Bruising can sometimes show under the eyes and you can expect to wear a cast on your nose to control the swelling and protect the delicate nasal structure for a week.

After one week, you will return to Dr. Bonaparte’s office to have the splints and cast removed during a quick office visit. At that time, you will be able to return to moderate exercise such as running, but must avoid contact sports for about six weeks.

You can expect to return to your normal daily activities after two weeks. Although you may feel a complete recovery after one month, total healing can take up to one year.

Learn More About Rhinoplasties

To learn more about rhinoplasty, contact head and neck surgeon Dr. James Bonaparte to have all your questions answered. Whether you have cosmetic or functional reasons for requesting a nose job, Dr. Bonaparte will guide you step by step throughout your experience. He will create a customized plan for your unique condition and will help you explore your insurance options. Get started by calling our office or contacting us online today.