A nose job, officially known as a Rhinoplasty procedure, is a very popular form of cosmetic surgery that is designed specifically to alter the appearance of the nose. Although many people think of it is being a purely cosmetic treatment, there are a number of patients each year that seek rhinoplasty for functional reasons.

Since our noses are so unique, exactly what a nose job entails will depend on your individual requirements and whether you are seeking the procedure for functional or cosmetic benefits.
 

Functional rhinoplasty

Our nose plays a key role in our respiratory system, enabling air to enter and exit the body, while the tiny hairs within the nose help to filter out allergens and other irritants so they don’t have a chance to access the lungs. Functional rhinoplasty is performed with the intention of helping the patient breathe more easily. Everyone has a slightly different nose, and for some people, the shape and size of their nose make it more difficult to breathe than is ideal. This is particularly the case for patients who may have a genetically flat nose or small nostrils, or who have experienced a trauma to the nose such as a break that has caused the framework to collapse.

Functional rhinoplasty typically involves restoring the framework of the nose so that the airways can be opened. In some instances, the nostrils will also be made larger to improve access.
 

Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

Cosmetic rhinoplasty tends to be what most people think of when it comes to nose jobs. Unfortunately, the shape and size of our nose tend to be largely inherited from our parents and by the time we reach around 16 years old, the nose that we have is the nose we must live with… unless we choose to undergo rhinoplasty surgery.

There are many different ways in which it is possible to reshape the nose, and since it is our central facial feature and impossible to hide, if you choose to have rhinoplasty surgery, it is essential that you don’t rush into the process and that you choose an experienced and skilled surgeon who can help you achieve the improvement that you are looking for.

Types of cosmetic rhinoplasty and what to expect

Cosmetic rhinoplasty tends to be divided into two key types. These are known as reduction rhinoplasty and augmentation rhinoplasty. Reduction rhinoplasty, as you might expect, is carried out with the principal focus of making the nose smaller. However, if you want the shape of your nose changed, or your nose made larger, you will undergo what is known as an augmentation rhinoplasty. This is where extra bone or cartilage is used to reshape and rebuild the nose. This bone and cartilage are usually taken from another part of your body such as your ears, elbow or hip, although in some cases an artificial version may be used instead.

Wherever possible, your surgeon will try and make any incisions on the inside of the nose to reduce the likelihood of visible scarring. When cuts are made inside the nostrils, it is known as closed rhinoplasty. However, this isn’t possible in every case and an open rhinoplasty involves your surgeon making an incision across the skin between your nostrils as well as inside them.

When you attend your rhinoplasty consultation you will be made aware which type of rhinoplasty you will have and what you can expect to happen. All rhinoplasties, whether functional or cosmetic, are normally performed under a general anesthetic.
 

Recovering from a nose job

As you might expect, it can take some time to feel back to normal after a nose job. Not only does having a general anesthetic have a considerable effect on the body and you may feel drowsy and uncoordinated for 24 hours or more, but your nose will feel tight and sore for a number of days. You will be recommended to take pain relief regularly and your surgeon will advise you on the best way to care for your nose while you recover. This will involve guidance on nutrition and keeping your wound clean, as well as when you can go back to work and participate in sports once again.

It is important to note that the effects of your nose job won’t be visible straight away. Swelling and bruising can last for a number of months and it may be up to twelve weeks or more before your final result is evident.

If you would like more information on exactly what a nose job entails, please contact us and book an appointment to discuss your requirements with our experienced cosmetic surgery team at our offices in Weston, FL.