Your nose is sometimes referred to as the “centerpiece of your face,” and it can leave a last impression.
We can thank Renaissance painters for refining beauty standards and realizing the power of symmetry. Facial harmony is all about proportions. For those who are dissatisfied with the size, shape, or proportions of their nose, rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” offers a surgical solution. Because of its tremendous success rate, it’s one of the most requested plastic surgery procedures. Whether your nose is too large, too wide, or crooked, rhinoplasty can successfully address size and symmetry, adding or taking away just the right amount to balance out the face.
For some people, injuries leave their noses crooked and out of alignment with their faces. For other people, congenital disorders such as a cleft lip and palate make rhinoplasty a necessity to achieve normal breathing, shape, and contour of the nose.
If rhinoplasty is done well it not only changes the way people look physically, it also changes the way they feel about themselves mentally and emotionally. Our surgeons listen carefully to keep an open communication with their patients from the consultation stage, to the healing phase, of surgery which proves time and again to produce successful outcomes and satisfied patients.
Let’s dive into some common questions to help understand exactly how the procedure works and what patients can expect from the experience:
HOW IS RHINOPLASTY PERFORMED?
When evaluating the nose, our plastic surgeons take into account the overall size and shape of the face, lips, and chin. We assess the internal structures of the nose, then work to correct the shape of the nose while also addressing any internal abnormalities to optimize breathing. Rhinoplasty can be performed through various approaches, but the majority of the time, incisions are placed inside the nose to hide them. The bone and cartilage of the nose is then reshaped to optimize the length, profile, symmetry, and alignment with the lips and chin.
WHAT’S THE PROCEDURE PROCESS AND RECOVERY TIME?
Surgery can vary from 1-4 hours, depending on the case. It’s typically performed under general anesthesia, and we will work with you during consultation to determine what’s appropriate for your needs. Most patients will feel up to returning to work within 3-5 days of the surgery. At the time of surgery, a small splint is placed over the nose for protection, this is removed within 7 days of the surgery. You will be asked to sleep on your back for a few weeks to avoid injuring the nose. Bruising around the eyes may occur in cases when the nose must be straightened and generally disappears within 10 days.
WHAT RESULTS SHOULD I EXPECT?
The results of rhinoplasty surgery will be long-lasting. Swelling during the recovery time should subside within a few weeks. The result will be a more symmetrical and aesthetically proportioned nose.
Are you considering a rhinoplasty? It’s a common, safe, and relatively quick procedure. We are the experts in the Bay Area, and we’re here to help. Call us at (415) 925-2880 or email us at [email protected] to find out more and schedule a consultation.