Rhinoplasty: A Closer Look at Surgery for a Smaller Nose

Published June 3, 2023

Do you ever feel self-conscious about the size or shape of your nose? Certain rhinoplasty surgery can help you have a smaller and more even nose.

In this article, we will explore rhinoplasty and how it can enhance your facial harmony.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as a “nose job,” is a surgery that can change your nose’s size, shape, or structure. Some people get this surgery to make their nose look better, while others do it to fix breathing problems.

How Does Rhinoplasty Work?

Rhinoplasty is a surgery to change the shape of the nose. During the surgery, the doctor makes minor cuts and adjusts the bones and cartilage in the nose. They may also add or remove tissue to get the desired shape.

After the surgery, there is a recovery period where the nose may be swollen and sore. It’s essential to follow the doctor’s instructions for healing. Consulting with a skilled doctor is crucial to get the best result.

The Process

Before having a rhinoplasty, talking to a skilled plastic surgeon is essential. They will listen to what you want and explain the risks and benefits of the surgery. The surgeon will examine your nose and face and make a plan tailored to your needs.

The Techniques

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty is a surgical technique used in nasal reshaping procedures. In this method, the surgeon makes a small cut on the part between your nostrils called the columella. This cut helps the surgeon lift the skin and reach the inside of your nose. The good thing is that it gives the surgeon a clear view and easy access to the different parts of your nose.

Next, the surgeon can sculpt the nasal bones, reshape the cartilage, and adjust the nasal tip as needed. This technique is beneficial for complex cases that need significant modifications or reconstructions. The surgeon can adjust to get the desired outcome by having a direct view of the nasal structures.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed Rhinoplasty is a different way to reshape the nose without making cuts on the outside. Instead, the surgeon makes minor cuts inside the nostrils so no scars are visible. By working through these cuts, they can reshape the nose without lifting the skin.

The surgeon fixes the shape of the nose’s bones and cartilage from the inside of the nose. They do this for minor changes or if the tip of the nose doesn’t need a lot of fixing. Closed rhinoplasty heals faster than open rhinoplasty because there are no visible cuts.

Reshaping the Nose

The surgeon may change the nasal bones and cartilage or adjust the nasal tip during the surgery. The procedure can reduce the size of the nose by removing excess tissue, cartilage, or bone. The surgeon may also make adjustments to achieve better facial balance and proportion.

Recovery and Results

After rhinoplasty, patients experience swelling, bruising, and discomfort, which subside. Follow the doctor’s rules, including proper care, and avoid activities during healing. Complete recovery may take several weeks, and the final results become more evident.

• Week 1: After surgery, you may have a splint on your nose and feel stuffiness or blockage.
• Week 2-4: Swelling decreases, and bruising subsides. External sutures removed. You can return to non-strenuous activities.
• Month 1-3: Visible swelling continues to reduce, and your nose takes on its final shape.
• Month 3-6: Swelling subsides, and your nose is in its final shape. Subtle changes are still possible.
• Year 1: Your nose settles into its permanent shape. Any extra changes will be minimal.

Always follow your surgeon’s advice, attend follow-up appointments, and share concerns. Recovery experiences may vary, so consult your surgeon for personalized guidance.

Considerations and Potential Risks of Rhinoplasty