A rhinoplasty, or “nose job,” is a procedure that can change the shape and contour of the nose to improve facial balance and nasal proportion. This procedure can also improve breathing caused by structural defects such as a deviated septum. Everyone has natural asymmetries throughout the face and symmetry is not guaranteed after this procedure. However, rhinoplasty can help with reducing the width of the nose, visible humps or depressions along the nasal bridge, nostril size, and change the shape of the nasal tip.
Candidates have reached skeletal maturity, are healthy, non-smoking, and have realistic goals. During the consultation, Dr. Hunsicker will discuss your specific concerns and goals to develop an individualized surgical plan taking into account your facial structure, ethnicity, and lifestyle.
This procedure is performed in the operating room and, depending upon your desired result, may take between 2-4 hours. The incisions are made at the base of the nose extending into the nostrils and the skin carefully dissected to reveal the underlying structures. These are modified according to the agreed upon surgical plan created by the patient and Dr. Hunsicker to achieve the desired outcome.
The incision is closed with both absorbable and nonabsorbable sutures and an external nasal splint will be placed. Some patients may have internal nasal splints placed which will be removed post-operatively.
Recovery depends upon the extent of the surgery, but most patients will experience facial swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes for a few days after surgery. There will be slight bleeding and drainage from the surgical site which can be absorbed with gauze. It is important to keep the head elevated and limit physical activity after surgery to reduce excess pressure and swelling.
Initial swelling will improve within a few weeks but may take up to a year before the new nasal contour is fully defined. Most changes after rhinoplasty are permanent.
What is a liquid rhinoplasty?
Liquid rhinoplasty is a non-surgical option for changing the appearance of your nose using dermal filler. In a surgical nose job, there is a reduction or modification of the underlying structures. With filler, volume is added to the nose to change the silhouette and can last up to 2 years.
