If you’re bothered by the feeling that your nose is too long or is otherwise misshapen (with a bump on the top or very wide nostrils, for example), you may want to consider rhinoplasty. Often referred to as a “nose job,” rhinoplasty is a very common procedure performed on men and women to reshape the nose. While it’s usually performed as a cosmetic procedure, it can also be effective in treating obstructed nasal passages. To learn more about rhinoplasty, check out these frequently asked questions.

Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty?
If the shape of your nose makes you self-conscious, you may be a good candidate for nose reshaping. You should be in relatively good health and abstain from smoking for at least two prior to and after the surgery. A good candidate must also have realistic expectations about the results, expecting dramatic improvement to the shape of your nose but not necessarily perfection.

How is rhinoplasty done?
Rhinoplasty is a same-day procedure that is performed under general anesthesia. The technique used varies depending on the desired outcome. The duration of surgery depends on the technique being used and how complex the case is. It can last as little as 30 minutes or up to three hours. After the procedure, your doctor will place a splint on your nose, which you should wear for about a week.

Is it painful?
Following the procedure, you can expect to experience some pain and discomfort as you heal. This typically lasts from three to five days. Your doctor will prescribe pain pills to help with pain relief. It’s important to use them only as directed and stop taking them once your pain subsides. Immedicately following rhinoplasty, you will experience some bruising and swelling around your eyes and nose, which tends to disappear in no more than two weeks.

How soon will I see results?
There will be considerable swelling after rhinoplasty. After about a month, you should begin to notice a marked reduction in the majority of the swelling. You will begin to see subtle improvement after five to six months, with final results in one year.

To learn more about the benefits of rhinoplasty in Philadelphia or Bryn Mawr, please contact John J.W. Lee, MD, FACS, to schedule a consultation with our experienced cosmetic surgeon.