Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

The nose, being at the center of the face is an essential aesthetic component. Because of this, even the smallest of imperfections in the profile of the nose can make one feel less attractive and less confident. Rhinoplasty also referred to as a nose job is a popular cosmetic procedure that helps reshape and change the appearance of one’s nose. In addition, rhinoplasty can address functional problems with the nose and help improve patient’s breathing. Nose surgery is a very delicate procedure and therefore requires a skilled surgeon who can help you achieve your aesthetic goals without compromising nose function. The key to successful nose surgery is a thorough understanding of the patient’s nasal deformity and aesthetic concerns to design an individualized and comprehensive surgical plan. Our surgeons at Houston Dermatology and Plastic Surgery, can design a personalized plan to help you achieve a natural looking nose you always wanted.

Who would benefit from rhinoplasty?

Anyone desiring improvement in the following aesthetic and functional problems of their nose:

• Hump on the nose.
• Nose that is too large.
• Nose that is crooked.
• Nose tip that is too wide and bulbous.
• Droopy nose tip or poor tip profile.
• Septal deviation and difficulty breathing.
• Nose deformity because of trauma.

Rhinoplasty Consultation and Planning

One of our surgeons will meet with you during your consultation to discuss your aesthetic goals. Make sure to explain in detail what it is that you do not like about your nose and report any breathing difficulties you are having. It is important to communicate your expected goals to your surgeon who will then formulate a surgical plan that addresses your concerns without compromising your ability to breathe through your nose. A surgical plan that is unique to your problem will be discussed and all your questions will be answered. Your surgeon will also perform a thorough medical history to ensure that your procedure can be performed safely. Photographs will be taken and your surgeon will go over realistic expectations for your surgery.

Rhinoplasty Procedure Description

Nose surgery is performed in our outpatient certified surgical center under general anesthesia. The surgery typically takes 2 to 3 hours and the patient goes home the same day. It may be performed through an open or a closed approach depending on what needs to be accomplished.

In an open rhinoplasty, your surgeon will make a small incision on the underside of your nose between the nostrils. This incision is the only incision on the outside of your nose that may be slightly visible. The remaining incisions are inside the nostrils and are completely hidden. Your surgeon will then expose the structural framework of your nose including cartilage and bone. The cartilage framework of the nose may be redesigned by removing some cartilage, reshaping it, or adding cartilage graft. Cartilage may be borrowed from either the septum or from the ear. The bones of the nose may need to be broken and repositioned for a narrower or straighter nose alignment. After the bone and cartilage structure is reshaped the skin is re-draped and incisions are closed. All the sutures inside the nose are absorbable, but the sutures that are on the outside of the nose usually need to be removed in 5 to 7 days. Your surgeon may need to use splints and/or packing inside your nose and a splint on the outside of your nose for protection. They need to remain in place until they are removed during a follow-up visit.

In the closed rhinoplasty approach, only incisions inside the nose are made which are not visible. This option is reserved for patients who only need minimal correction to their nasal irregularity. For instance, it can be used for patients who only need a reduction of a nasal hump.