The surgery performed to reshape the nose is called rhinoplasty. It is more popularly known as a nose job. Rhinoplasty is done to change the shape, size, and angle of the nose to make it look proportionate with the rest of the face. Structural problems of the nose that cause breathing issues and chronic congestion can also be corrected using this procedure.

Rhinoplasty can only be done for female patients above 16 years of age and male patients above 18 years of age. Any cosmetic surgery of the nose done before these ages can cause complications and increase the risk of the results changing over time because the nose has not yet fully developed.

Most insurance companies do not cover the costs for the procedure of rhinoplasty. But if the nose surgery is meant to correct defects caused by injuries or a disease, or it corrects a functional problem, you may be covered by your insurance company. You will need to find out about this beforehand.

Your rhinoplasty should be done by a trained facial plastic surgeon. Here are some of the things you will need to know about the procedure beforehand.

Rhinoplasty Surgery

General or local anesthesia is administered before performing rhinoplasty in order to greatly reduce pain and discomfort for the patient. Either an open or a closed incision will then be created.

An open incision is made in the columella, the strip of skin separating the nostrils. A closed incision is made inside the nostrils. During open rhinoplasty, the skin of the nose is lifted for greater access to the bones and cartilage. During a closed rhinoplasty, the skin is not lifted, making it the less-invasive option.

Depending on the particular requirement of the individual and the desired results, bone and cartilage will be altered or removed from the nose. A supportive graft made from the patient’s own tissue may be used.

After the required surgical steps have been done, the skin is carefully redraped over the area. A splint and bandage are added to support the new shape of the nose and help it heal faster. You may or may not have to spend a night at the hospital after the procedure.

Post-Surgical Care

The splint and the bandage will be removed after a week. Bruising and swelling around the eyes and the nose are common. Your face will feel puffy, too. It takes about two weeks for the bruising and swelling to subside. Cold compresses can be used to reduce swelling and bruising.

You will have to keep your head still and in an elevated position for a couple of days after the surgery. The doctor will give you painkillers to deal with the pain during the healing process. You can go back to your regular duties and strenuous activities after a couple of weeks.

Set Up a Rhinoplasty Consultation

Facial plastic surgeon Dr. Haresh Yalamanchili has a great deal of skill and knowledge when it comes to rhinoplasty and numerous other corrective and enhancement procedures. To schedule an informative rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Yalamanchili, contact our office today.