Rhinoplasty/Nose Surgery
The size, shape, and silhouette of your nose can have a significant impact on the symmetry and beauty of your face. You may have always been unhappy with the look of your nose, or an injury could have recently altered its appearance. Because the nose is the focal point of the face, restoring a balanced and attractive nose can improve your overall facial harmony and increase your confidence. Rhinoplasty is the surgical process of sculpting the nasal structures for a new, more attractive nose.
Your Nose Surgery: Incision Options
Open Technique
- An incision is placed on the outer base of the nose, between the nostrils.
- An open technique provides a clearer view of the underlying nasal structures.
Closed Technique
- All incisions are placed within the nasal passages.
- While it provides a more limited view of the nasal structures, more subtle changes can be made without visible scarring.
Septoplasty
- A septoplasty is performed to correct a deviated septum and restore proper breathing function.
- Deviated septums can occur naturally or result from trauma, causing breathing abnormalities.
What Do You Desire?
Smaller Nose
You may choose rhinoplasty because your nose is too large in proportion to the rest of your face. The nose may droop, be elongated, have a wide nasal bridge, or have a bulbous or boxy tip. By removing and/or shaping your nasal cartilage, Dr. Wilson is able to craft a smaller nose that looks more pleasing and less obtrusive.
Balanced Features
An overly prominent nose can create an unbalanced facial appearance. Your chin may look weak or receding when overshadowed by a large nose, or conversely, your chin and forehead may seem large if your nose is very small. As the center of the face, a poorly proportioned nose can be distracting. When we reshape the nasal structure, we are looking to bring harmony and balance to the entirety of the face for a more attractive appearance.
Natural Results
Dr. Wilson’s primary goal, as with any surgery, is to achieve the most natural-looking results possible. You want improvement in your nasal appearance, but you don’t want people to know you’ve had surgery. Maintaining balanced proportions and minimizing visible scars allows Dr. Wilson to achieve beautiful and natural rhinoplasty results.
More Attractive Shape
We often perform rhinoplasty to meet your aesthetic needs. The shape of the nose can be changed based on the thickness of the cartilage and skin. Often, a bump on the bridge is removed during rhinoplasty. The bridge can also be narrowed or widened to create more pleasing proportions. The tip of the nose can be bulbous or boxy, which can be improved by removing cartilage and reshaping to produce a more refined nose.
Rhinoplasty Concerns
Recovery
After nose surgery, you should expect some swelling and bruising. Swelling will vary based on the invasiveness of your rhinoplasty. Any swelling or bruising will diminish by week two, and the majority of swelling will be gone by week six, though some internal swelling will persist for up to a year. Pain is surprisingly minimal for most patients.
Scars
Dr. Wilson always takes great care to place your incisions in discreet locations, but patients who use an open technique may develop some visible scarring at the base of the nose. The severity of your scarring will depend on your genetics, but most patients do see an improvement in their scars over time. Most scarring eventually fades.
Pain
Your nose may feel swollen and sore following your surgery. This discomfort can last for several days. It may feel difficult to breathe initially because of your nasal packing. During the first few days, oral medication can be taken to control any pain you may experience.
Risks
Rhinoplasty is a safe procedure with a low risk of complications. As with any surgery, you should follow your aftercare instructions carefully to avoid infection. The most common complications after nose surgery, though rare, are bleeding, infection, and temporary loss of sensation. Discuss with your surgeon how to best care for your nose following surgery and how to identify any possible complications that may develop.
Cost
The cost of a rhinoplasty is determined by several factors. Surgical fees, incision technique, facility fees, and anesthesia fees are all reflected in the cost of your nose surgery. A customized quote will be provided for you following a thorough consultation.
Before & After Photos
21 year old female had a rhinoplasty to improve her boxy tip, dorsal hump, and reduce the overall size of her nose. She also had a septoplasty to improve her airway from a deviated septum.
View Photo GalleryRhinoplasty Frequently Asked Questions in Huntsville, AL
What type of anesthesia is used for nose surgery?
Rhinoplasty is performed with the patient under general anesthesia.
What is the minimum age for a rhinoplasty candidate?
We can perform rhinoplasty on teens and young adults. However, the nasal structures should be fully formed prior to surgery. This usually occurs between 16 and 18 years of age, but this varies between boys and girls.
Is it difficult to breathe following nose surgery?
Swelling and nasal packing make it impossible to breathe through the nose for several days following your surgery. While you shouldn’t have difficulties breathing through the mouth, it can be uncomfortable for some people.
Can I wear glasses following my surgery?
The bridge of your nose will be sensitive following your surgery. You shouldn’t wear glasses or sunglasses for several weeks after your surgery. After this time, glasses with protective rims may be worn until Dr. Wilson determines your nose is completely healed.
When should I expect to see my results?
Initial swelling can dramatically alter the appearance of your nose. By six weeks, most major swelling should subside enough to see the final shape of your nose. However, minor swelling may still exist that can impact the subtle shaping of your nose for up to a year.
