Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping)
Refine your profile. Improve your breathing. Look like yourself — only better.
Overview
About Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping)
Rhinoplasty is one of the most technically demanding procedures in plastic surgery — and one of the most transformative. It reshapes the nose to improve its proportion, symmetry, and harmony with the rest of the face. It can also correct structural problems that impair breathing, such as a deviated septum.
Our surgeons approach rhinoplasty with a commitment to subtlety and balance. The goal is never a "cookie-cutter" result, but a nose that looks natural on your face — one that enhances your features without drawing attention to itself.
The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) recognizes rhinoplasty as both a cosmetic and reconstructive procedure. Functional rhinoplasty — performed to correct breathing impairment — may be covered by insurance when medically documented.
At a Glance
Procedure Time
2–4 hours
Anesthesia
General anesthesia
Facility
Accredited surgical suite
Initial Recovery
1–2 weeks (splint worn)
Full Results
12 months (swelling fully resolves)
Technique
Open or closed — based on goals
Candidacy
Am I a Good Candidate?
Rhinoplasty candidates should be in good health, have fully developed facial bones (typically age 16+ for women, 17+ for men), and have realistic expectations. Both cosmetic and functional concerns can be addressed in a single procedure.
You May Be a Good Candidate If You:
- Are unhappy with the size, shape, or projection of your nose
- Have a bump or hump on the nasal bridge
- Have a wide, bulbous, or asymmetric nasal tip
- Experience breathing difficulty due to a deviated septum or structural issue
- Have fully developed facial bones (age 16+ for women, 17+ for men)
- Are in good general health and do not smoke
- Have realistic expectations about the outcome
Surgery May Not Be Recommended If You:
- Are still growing (facial bones not yet fully developed)
- Have unrealistic expectations or body dysmorphic disorder
- Have active skin infections or nasal conditions
- Are seeking a result that does not suit your facial anatomy
- Currently smoke and are unwilling to stop before surgery
The Procedure
Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is performed using either an open or closed technique. The choice depends on the complexity of the changes needed and your surgeon's assessment of your anatomy.
In a closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nostrils — leaving no visible external scars. This approach is appropriate for less complex cases. In an open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils), providing greater visibility and access for more complex reshaping. The columellar scar is typically imperceptible once healed.
If breathing correction is needed, septal work (septoplasty) and turbinate reduction may be performed at the same time as the cosmetic reshaping.
01
Anesthesia
General anesthesia is administered for your comfort and safety.
02
Incisions
Open or closed incisions are made based on your surgical plan. Placement minimizes visible scarring.
03
Reshaping
Bone, cartilage, and soft tissue are sculpted to achieve the planned changes — reducing, refining, or augmenting as needed.
04
Structural Support
Cartilage grafts may be used to support or refine the tip, bridge, or nostrils for lasting results.
05
Closure
Incisions are closed and a splint is applied to support the new nasal shape during initial healing.
What to Expect
Recovery Timeline
Days 1–7
Week 1
Splint and internal packing in place. Swelling and bruising around eyes is expected. Rest and head elevation required.
Days 7–14
Week 2
Splint and sutures removed. Most bruising resolves. Presentable in public for most patients.
Weeks 3–6
Weeks 3–6
Return to work and light activity. Avoid contact sports and activities that risk nasal impact.
Months 3–12
Full Healing
Residual swelling — especially at the tip — gradually resolves. Final result visible at 12 months.
Recovery timelines are estimates. Your surgeon will provide a personalized recovery plan during your consultation.
Outcomes
Your Results
Rhinoplasty results are permanent, though the nose continues to age naturally over time. Most patients see the majority of their result within the first few months, with final refinement occurring as the last of the swelling resolves over 12 months.
Our surgeons use computer imaging during consultations to help you visualize potential outcomes and align expectations before surgery. The goal is always a result that looks natural and proportionate — not operated on.
Informed Consent
Risks & Safety
All surgical procedures carry risk. The American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS) requires that patients receive a thorough discussion of potential risks before consenting to surgery. Your surgeon will review all of the following — and any risks specific to your health history — during your consultation.
Swelling & Bruising
Expected and temporary. Most visible bruising resolves within 2 weeks; subtle swelling may persist for months.
Infection
Rare. Treated with antibiotics if it occurs.
Breathing Changes
Temporary nasal congestion is normal. Persistent breathing changes are uncommon.
Asymmetry
Minor asymmetry is common in all noses. Significant asymmetry may require revision.
Unsatisfactory Result
Rhinoplasty has a higher revision rate than most procedures. Revision surgery is possible but must wait until full healing (12+ months).
Scarring
Columellar scar from open technique is typically imperceptible. Abnormal scarring is possible.
Septal Perforation
A rare complication involving a hole in the nasal septum. Requires surgical repair if symptomatic.
Anesthesia Risks
Rare reactions to anesthesia are minimized by our board-certified anesthesia team.
Our commitment to your safety: Our surgeons perform procedures only in our accredited surgical facility, with board-certified anesthesia providers and a trained nursing team. Thorough pre-operative screening and patient selection are the most effective tools for minimizing surgical risk.
Ready to Learn More?
Schedule a private, no-obligation consultation with one of our board-certified surgeons. We will answer every question and create a personalized plan for you.