Rhinoplasty
Reshape and refine your nose to achieve facial harmony and balance while potentially improving breathing function—all with natural-looking results.
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About This Procedure
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that can reshape the nose to improve facial harmony and balance. It can address a wide range of concerns, from reducing a prominent hump to refining the tip, narrowing wide nostrils, or correcting asymmetry. For some patients, rhinoplasty also improves breathing by correcting structural abnormalities.
Dr. Feldman approaches each rhinoplasty with a focus on achieving natural-looking results that complement your unique facial features. The goal is never to create a 'cookie-cutter' nose, but rather to enhance your nose in a way that looks like it has always belonged on your face. This requires a deep understanding of facial aesthetics, precise surgical technique, and artistic vision.
Whether you're seeking cosmetic improvement, functional correction, or both, Dr. Feldman will work with you to develop a personalized surgical plan. Using advanced techniques and sometimes computer imaging, he can help you visualize potential results and ensure your expectations are aligned with achievable outcomes.
Is This Right for You?
Rhinoplasty candidates should be physically healthy, have realistic expectations, and have a nose that has finished growing (typically age 16 or older). Both cosmetic and functional concerns can be addressed during the same procedure.
Ideal Candidates Include:
- Individuals unhappy with the overall size of their nose
- Those with a dorsal hump (bump on the bridge)
- Patients with a drooping, bulbous, or upturned nasal tip
- Those with wide nostrils or a crooked nose
- Individuals with breathing difficulties due to nasal structure
- Those seeking correction after previous nasal injury
- Patients desiring improved facial harmony and balance
What You Can Expect
Step-by-Step Process
Comprehensive Consultation
Dr. Feldman will examine your nose inside and out, discuss your concerns and goals, and explain what changes are possible. Computer imaging may be used to help visualize potential results and align expectations.
Surgical Planning
A detailed surgical plan is developed based on your anatomy and goals. Dr. Feldman will determine whether an open or closed approach is best and plan the specific modifications needed to achieve your desired outcome.
Pre-Operative Preparation
You'll receive instructions for preparing for surgery, including medication guidelines and arranging for post-operative care. Any necessary medical clearances will be obtained.
Rhinoplasty Surgery
The procedure is performed under general anesthesia. Dr. Feldman will reshape the nasal structures—bone, cartilage, and tissue—to achieve the planned improvements. A splint and internal packing may be placed to support healing.
Recovery & Reveal
Initial swelling is expected and is most significant in the first few days. The splint is typically removed after one week, revealing your new nasal shape. Final results emerge gradually over 12-18 months.
Recovery Timeline
Days 1-3
Rest with head elevated. Significant swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes is normal. Cold compresses and pain medication help manage discomfort.
Week 1
Splint and any internal packing removed at follow-up appointment. Major swelling begins to subside. Bruising typically fades to yellow/green and can be covered with makeup.
Weeks 2-3
Most visible swelling and bruising has resolved. Many patients return to work and social activities. The nose may still feel stiff or numb.
Months 1-3
Continued improvement as swelling decreases. The nose begins to look more refined. Full activity can typically resume after 4-6 weeks.
Months 6-18
Subtle swelling continues to resolve, especially in the tip. Final results are typically visible between 12-18 months post-surgery.
Risks & Considerations
As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and considerations. Dr. Feldman will discuss these thoroughly during your consultation and takes every precaution to minimize risks while maximizing your safety.
- Swelling and bruising (temporary but may be prolonged)
- Numbness in nasal skin (usually temporary)
- Nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing
- Asymmetry or irregularities
- Unsatisfactory aesthetic result requiring revision
- Infection (rare)
- Septal perforation (rare)
Expected Results
Rhinoplasty results are permanent, though the nose will continue to age naturally along with the rest of your face. While initial results are visible once swelling subsides, final results take 12-18 months to fully manifest as subtle swelling in the tip resolves.
What to Expect:
- Initial shape visible within 2-3 weeks
- Significant improvement by 3 months
- Final results at 12-18 months
- Permanent reshaping of the nose
- Improved breathing (if functional component addressed)
- Natural appearance that complements your features
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does rhinoplasty surgery take?
Rhinoplasty typically takes 2-3 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. More extensive reshaping or revision cases may take longer.
What's the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nose, leaving no visible scars. Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils), which provides better visibility for complex cases. Dr. Feldman will recommend the approach best suited to your needs.
Will rhinoplasty change how I breathe?
Rhinoplasty can improve breathing if you have structural issues like a deviated septum or enlarged turbinates. If breathing improvement is a goal, Dr. Feldman will address functional concerns during the same surgery.
How visible will my scars be?
For closed rhinoplasty, all scars are hidden inside the nose. For open rhinoplasty, the small columellar scar typically heals very well and becomes nearly invisible within a few months.
What if I don't like my results?
Dr. Feldman takes great care to understand your goals and set realistic expectations before surgery. However, revision rhinoplasty is available if needed, typically performed no sooner than one year after the initial surgery to allow complete healing.
Can rhinoplasty fix breathing problems?
Yes, rhinoplasty can address structural issues that cause breathing difficulties, such as a deviated septum, collapsed nasal valves, or enlarged turbinates. Functional concerns are often addressed alongside cosmetic improvements.
Ready to Learn More?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Feldman to discuss whether rhinoplasty is right for you and to develop a personalized treatment plan.