Nose Reshaping - Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping)

Some of us are unhappy with our nose, either because of its size or shape or because of breathing problems. Rhinoplasty reshapes the skin as well as the bone and cartilage inside to alter the size and shape of the nose. Work on the cartilage that separates the two nasal air passages can help with breathing problems. This so-called “septoplasty” is often done as part of rhinoplasty or as the sole procedure. Sometimes this same cartilage is also used as a graft to help in the nose reshaping.

The procedure is usually done as an outpatient, under general anesthesia or local anesthesia and sedation administered by a physician anesthesiologist to minimize discomfort during the procedure. Most patients have very little pain following the surgery as well because long-acting local anesthetic is administered as part of the procedure. Following the procedure, the nose may be packed with gauze for several days to help mold it into the new shape sculpted during surgery. Most patients return to work about a week after surgery. There may be some bruising for a week or so and some swelling for a few weeks following surgery.