Nose Surgery
Patients who desire to change the appearance of their nose for cosmetic reasons or after trauma, may be good candidates for rhinoplasty (also know as a nose job). The nose size can be reduced or increased with rhinoplasty. The shape and size of the nostrils, nasal tip and bridge of the nose can be modified with the procedure. The angle and slope of the nose can be changed to make it more proportional to the rest of the face. Normally, rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure done under general or local anesthesia.
During nose surgery, the skin of the nose is elevated from the framework of bone and cartilage beneath it. Some cartilage and bone may be removed. Tissue from the nose or another part of the body such as ear or rib cartilage may be added as a graft. This results in the ideal nasal shape for the patient.
Depending on the needs of the patient, Dr. Rosenthal may opt to perform “open” (incision on outside) or “closed” (incision on inside) rhinoplasty. The skin is re-draped to cover the new framework. In most cases, the application of a splint is used to aid in the maintenance of the new form. Soft splints or nasal packs are sometimes inserted in nostrils to give additional stability. Within two days of surgery, the packing inside the nose is removed.
Some degree of discomfort, swelling, and bruising can be expected. After surgery, cold compresses and appropriate doctor prescribed medication can alleviate some of these issues. Within two weeks, the most visible bruising and swelling will disappear.
If there are external stitches, they are removed 4-6 days after surgery and splints are removed in about 7 days. For the first several days following surgery, the head should be elevated and kept relatively still. A week to ten days after surgery, patients can usually return to non-strenuous activities and work. By six weeks after nose job surgery, strenuous activities are usually able to be resumed.
Please click here to view our before & after gallery.
Patient Testimonial
“Dr. Rosenthal is very professional, knowledgeable and knows exactly what the patient want and need. She did a great job with my nose surgery and I am very happy with the results.” – Freshtah A.
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Why Have a Rhinoplasty?
The angle, shape, and size of the nose can be changed with nose surgery. It creates a better proportion of the nose to the rest of the face. Structural problems within the nose can also be corrected with rhinoplasty. These may be the cause of breathing problems or chronic congestion.
What are the Results After a Rhinoplasty?
Depending on the type of correction and the goals of the patient, results of a nose job may be significant or minor. Goals should be set prior to surgery. The patient should discuss their expectations and goals with Dr. Rosenthal at our San Jose practice to be sure they are realistic. Often computer imaging can be used to estimate what can be achieved with nose job surgery.
Surgery brings about a permanent change, barring subsequent injury or factors that may alter the appearance of the nose. Subtle changes occur in the nose during the healing process so the final result may not be determined until almost a year after surgery. Females have complete nasal development when they reach the age of 15 to 16. Males are 17 to 18 before their development is complete. For this reason, it is best to perform rhinoplasty on patients who are in their mid-later teen years or older.
What are the Risks Associated with Nose Surgery?
Temporary bruising and swelling around the nose and eyes after rhinoplasty is always expected. Other problems that may occur are complications with anesthesia, nasal blockage due to swelling on the inside of the nose, change in sense of smell, and infection. Skin problems that include tissue breakdown and irritation from bandages and tape can occur. Holes or injury to the septum and bleeding my also need attention.
Surgeons that perform rhinoplasty are typically trained in plastic surgery or ear, nose, and throat surgery.
Click here to view Dr. Rosenthal’s before and after photos of actual patients.
Contact us Today
Female plastic surgeon, Regina L. Rosenthal, M.D., F.A.C.S., is the person to contact for rhinoplasty in the San Jose and Campbell area.
