Nasal Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

Nasal Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

Jefferson K. Kilpatrick, MD | Russell B. Stokes, MD | Hannah Parbst, Esthetician

One of the most common plastic surgery procedures, rhinoplasty is performed to reshape, reduce or augment a person’s nose, remove a hump, narrow nostril width, change the angle between the nose and the mouth, or to correct injury, birth defects, or other problems that affect breathing.

Nasal surgery can be performed for cosmetic or functional purposes. Areas commonly treated with rhinoplasty include the hump on top of the nose, a tip which is large or poorly defined, and the width of the nose.

Reasons for Considering Nasal Surgery:​

• Bring a better proportion to the nose and facial features.
• Reduce the size of the nose that is too large or too wide.
• Correct an overly arched or “Roman” nose.
• Re-form a crooked or elongated nose tip.
• Restore the nose if damaged from an accident or sports injury.
• Help with breathing problems by rebuilding the nasal passage.
• Treat nasal deformities caused at birth.

Procedure

Rhinoplasty is usually an outpatient procedure and can last from 1-3 hours. The surgeon may elect to utilize either local or general anesthesia, depending upon the complexity of the operation.

Recovery

A splint, bandages, and/or gauze are applied immediately following surgery to aid in the healing process and to minimize movement of the nose. Patients must refrain from smoking for several weeks before and after the surgery. In addition, any corrective glasses that are worn must be taped up and off the nose. The nose will need to be well-protected from the sun for the first year after the procedure while the body is adjusting to the new look. Patients sometimes report minor pain associated with the surgery. Pain can be effectively treated with oral medication and/or cold compresses.

Depending on the specific nature of your surgery, recovery time can vary from 5-14 days . There is often some bruising around the eyes and always some swelling. Often there is a need to place some packing gauze into the nose overnight. This is slightly uncomfortable, but most patients tolerate it very well. Any noticeable swelling will disappear within a few weeks.

Jefferson K. Kilpatrick, MD – Russell B. Stokes – Hannah Parbst, Esthetician

Before & After Rhinoplasty

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