What is Rhinoplasty?

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure performed by plastic surgeons, which enhances the shape, proportions, and overall appearance of the nose. This procedure can be done alone for cosmetic reasons or can be combined with other procedures for medical reasons. Importantly, rhinoplasty changes the appearance of the nose rather than the function. Septoplasty, turbinate surgery, and valve grafting are reconstructive procedures to fix breathing issues. 

Non-Surgical vs Surgical Rhinoplasty

Non-surgical rhinoplasty is the use of fillers on the nose area. The same hyaluronic acid fillers used for lip, cheek, or chin enhancement (Versa, Restylane) can be placed on the nose to smooth contours and improve shape or projection. This procedure is performed in office and provides results lasting typically 9 – 18 months. No incisions, anesthesia, or recovery time is required – making it a much simpler than the surgical alternatives. For many patients, the results of non-surgical rhinoplasty exceed surgical rhinoplasty, while avoiding many of the risks. The potential downside to non-surgical rhinoplasty is the temporary nature of the procedure – though many also consider this to be the greatest benefit. Non-surgical rhinoplasty is the most common type of rhinoplasty performed at Taylor and Sullivan Plastic Surgery. 

Surgical rhinoplasty allows for more significant and long-term results. It is performed to reshape and restructure the nose and can lead to more dramatic results. Cartilage and bone can be reduced or shaped and asymmetry may be improved. Nevertheless, there is need for an anesthetic and postoperative recovery with the final result being seen at approximately one year postoperatively. While revisions can be performed, they can be difficult. 

What is the recovery like for surgical rhinoplasty?

Patients are permitted to return home from the hospital on the same day as surgery and much swelling typically subsides after a few weeks or months. Patients can return to work and normal daily activities soon after the procedure takes place. Final results are usually seen around one year after the surgery when tissues soften, sensation returns, and the nose settles into its new shape. 

Open vs Closed Rhinoplasty

Surgical rhinoplasty can be either open or closed procedures. Open rhinoplasty is when skin incisions are made on the outside of the nose. Care is taken to ensure these incisions are small and scars are hidden.

Surgical rhinoplasty can also be performed through a closed procedure. This is achieved through making small incisions on the inside of the nose preventing any external scarring. Closed rhinoplasty is more commonly performed at Taylor and Sullivan Plastic Surgery. 

To schedule a consultation for rhinoplasty, please call our office at 617-492-0620 today.