Have you always wanted a sleeker, more well-balanced face? Do you feel like your unshapely nose is leading to disharmony and asymmetry in your facial features? Rhinoplasty could be just the procedure you need to achieve that look you deserve!
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is one of the most popular plastic surgery procedures that alters the shape and size of your nose.
The procedure is an extremely versatile aesthetic surgery procedure which can address a range of issues depending on your specific needs. It can be done for both medical and aesthetic purposes.
In this article we explain everything you need to know about nose surgery, including the reasons for having one and any potential risks.
We will also explore the different types of procedures, what the procedure entails, and practical information about preparing for the surgery, recovery, results, and costs.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that changes the shape of your nose to enhance its appearance. You can have the procedure to alter both the size and structure of your nose, making it smaller or larger depending on your preferences.
In some cases, it may be medically required to improve breathing problems caused by a deviated septum (the cartilage wall between nostrils).
Your nose is a prominent facial feature that can greatly impact the harmony and symmetry of your face. Nose surgery can alter the size and shape of your nose to achieve better facial proportion and harmony.
Reasons for Seeking Nose Surgery in Miami
The most common reason for getting a rhinoplasty is to address aesthetic concerns about your nose size, shape, or lack of symmetry.
You may decide to get a nose job surgery if you feel your nose is too large, too small, asymmetrical or has other structural characteristics that make you feel less confident about your appearance. Improving the harmony of your facial features can help you look more attractive and youthful.
Others choose to undergo surgery purely for health reasons, such as to fix difficulty breathing caused by a deviated septum or physical trauma resulting in structural deformities within one’s nasal passage.
A major benefit is that it can offer solutions that are tailored according to each patient’s desires and anatomical needs, so you can easily achieve the unique look you are after.
The most common reasons for deciding to undergo surgery are to:
- Correct Physical Abnormalities: Some people are born with physical abnormalities that affect the appearance of their nose. This can include a hump or crook on the bridge, or a nose that is too big or too small. A nose job can address these issues by reshaping the nose and creating a more symmetrical and balanced appearance. Specifically, elective surgery can treat the following aesthetic issues:
- Nose which is disproportionate in size (either too big or small).
- Overly wide or flat nasal bridge.
- Visible humps or depressions on the nasal bridge.
- A tip of the nose that is enlarged, bulbous, drooping, hooked, or pointed.
- Nostrils that are too large, wide, or upturned.
- Nasal asymmetry, including crookedness.
- Boost Self-Confidence: For many individuals, the shape and appearance of their nose can greatly impact their self-confidence. Plastic surgery can help enhance their appearance leading to increased self-confidence and a better quality of life.
- Repair Nasal Injuries: Accidents or injuries can cause damage to the nose, resulting in breathing difficulties or a misshapen appearance. Cosmetic surgery can repair these injuries, restoring the function and aesthetics of the nose.
- Improve Breathing: One of the most common reasons people seek cosmetic surgery is to improve their breathing. If you have a deviated septum or another issue that affects your nasal passages, it can make it difficult for you to breathe normally. Surgery can address these problems by correcting the internal structures and opening the nasal passages, allowing for easier breathing.
A skilled surgeon will use precision techniques when performing any kind of corrective work on the interior passages of the nose to not only improve external aesthetics but also ensure improved airflow and respiration.
Likewise, those who opt to have a rhinoplasty for medical reasons can combine it with an adjustment to the look of their nose if they desire.
Types of Rhinoplasty
Different types of rhinoplasty procedures can be performed to achieve specific goals and address individual needs.
Whether you are seeking cosmetic nose surgery or to restore functional movement, understanding the different types of techniques can help you make an informed decision about which procedure is best suited to your needs.
Closed Rhinoplasty
Closed rhinoplasty surgery involves making incisions inside the nostrils to reshape the nose without visible scarring. This approach is best suited for patients seeking mild reshaping of the nasal bridge or nostrils.
Advantages include less swelling and bruising, and a shorter recovery time compared to open rhinoplasty.
However, it is important to note that patients with complex nasal deformities might not be suited for this technique which includes anyone in need of: revision rhinoplasty, nasal tip modifications, or patients with functional concerns such as a deviated septum.
Open Rhinoplasty
Open rhinoplasty surgery is a technique used to alter the nasal anatomy by making a small incision on the columella, the tissue between the nostrils, to gain access to the internal nasal structures. This incision provides a complete view of the nose, allowing the surgeon to reshape the bridge, alter the tip, and change the angle of the nose.
Open rhinoplasty is especially helpful for patients who need significant alteration of the internal nasal structures to improve breathing.
It is also recommended for those who require revision of previous cosmetic procedure done, which often involves addressing scar tissue, altered nasal structures, and asymmetries that require a more extensive surgical approach provided by an open technique.
This type of procedure provides the surgeon with better visualization and precision in achieving the desired results.
Septoplasty
Septoplasty is a surgical procedure specifically aimed at addressing breathing difficulties caused by a damaged or deviated septum.
The septum is the wall that separates the two nostrils, and when it is crooked or damaged, it can cause a host of breathing problems, including snoring and sleep apnea.
During the procedure, the surgeon makes an incision in the septum to remove and straighten the crooked portions.
Septoplasty is often incorporated into other types of common nose surgery procedures, where the correction of a nasal deformity and the restoration of proper breathing can be addressed in a single operation.
This allows patients to achieve both cosmetic and functional improvements to their nose, resulting in a more symmetrical and better-functioning nasal airflow.
Restoring proper breathing is essential for continued good health because compromised airflow can lead to other issues such as infections, fatigue, and decreased quality of life. It’s vital to address breathing difficulties early on by seeking the appropriate surgical intervention if needed.
If you experience any breathing difficulties, it’s best to consult with a qualified surgeon to determine whether you require a septoplasty and to develop a treatment plan that is tailored to your specific needs.
Nose Surgery Procedure Steps
As you prepare for surgery, it is normal to feel nervous and unsure of what to expect. We will talk you through the steps, beginning from your first rhinoplasty consultation up to post-operative recovery and long-term results:
1. Discussing Your Goals With the Surgeon
The first step in undergoing cosmetic surgery is scheduling an initial consultation with Dr. Kachniarz. During this visit, you will have the chance to discuss your goals for the facial plastic surgery and Dr. Kachniarz will help evaluate if you are the right candidate for a nose job.
Dr. Kachniarz will examine your nasal structures and cartilage to determine the best surgical plan for you. By discussing your goals, Dr. Kachniarz can tailor the procedure to meet your specific needs and desires.
2. Medical History Disclosures
During the initial consultation, you will also have to disclose all previous surgeries, allergies, medications, and medical conditions in detail, as well as any smoking or drug use habits.
You may need to undergo medical tests such as blood work and imaging studies to ensure that there are no underlying health issues that could interfere with your safety during the procedure.
3. Make a Surgical Plan
After completing all necessary tests and pre-operative consultations, Dr. Kachniarz will create an individualized surgical plan tailored specifically to your needs.
The more open and honest you are with Dr. Kachniarz, the better he can tailor the surgical plan to meet your specific needs and ensure the best possible outcome.
Being straightforward about your expectations and concerns will also help establish realistic goals, allowing Dr. Kachniarz to communicate with you effectively and address any potential issues that may arise during the cosmetic surgery.
4. Pre-Operative Instructions
Prior to your procedure, there are several steps and precautions that must be taken to ensure optimal results. It is recommended that patients stop smoking and drinking alcohol at least two weeks prior to surgery to avoid complications and promote proper healing.
Regular exercise can also be beneficial in improving circulation and reducing the risk of blood clots.
During the pre-operative consultation, Dr. Kachniarz will provide you with detailed instructions on how to best prepare for the procedure. Patients may also need to arrange for a family member or friend to accompany them on the day of the surgery.
5. The Day of Surgery: What To Expect
Each procedure is customized to the patient’s specific requirements and goals. In general, you can expect the following on the day of the surgery:
When you arrive at the clinic, you will be escorted to the preoperative area. A nurse will check your vital signs and ensure you are fit for proceeding with surgery. Dr. Kachniarz will then mark your nose to indicate where the incisions will be made.
Next, you will be given anesthesia. The type of anesthesia depends on how extensive the procedure is, as well as your specific preferences. Local anesthesia is used for more minor operations, often those involving closed rhinoplasty.
General anesthesia will be administered for more extensive operations, such as open rhinoplasty and septoplasty.
You may also specifically request general anesthesia if you prefer to be unconscious during the procedure, although it does have the downside of stronger side-effects than local anesthesia.
The entire procedure usually takes approximately 1 – 3 hours, depending on how much nose reshaping is required. After the nasal surgery, you will likely have a cast on the bridge of your nose and intranasal stents inside your nose to support the nasal passages and reduce swelling.
The intranasal stents typically remain in place for 3-7 days, while the cast usually stays on for one week. You may experience some discomfort and swelling, but medications are provided to help manage the pain.
6. Post-Operative Care Guidelines
After the procedure, it is important for you to rest in bed with your head raised higher than your chest. This helps to reduce bleeding and swelling. You will typically require about a week of post-operative recovery time.
During this period, your nose may feel stuffy and blocked. This can be due to the swelling, as well as the intranasal stents which may be placed inside the nose to support the nasal passages and reduce swelling.
You may also experience drainage of mucus and old blood for the first few days after surgery and when you remove the dressing.
It is important to avoid any strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and contact sports during the recovery period to prevent any accidental trauma. You should also avoid blowing your nose for at least a week.
The cast that remains in place for one week after the surgery helps reduce swelling and holds the nasal bones in position while they heal.
After the cast is removed, patients may experience some residual swelling and bruising. Applying cold compresses to the affected area can help reduce these symptoms.
Regular follow-up appointments with the surgeon are recommended to assess the healing process and ensure optimal results.
Other instructions for the post-operative recovery period may include:
- Take baths as opposed to showers while you have the cast or bandages on your nose.
- Don’t blow your nose and try to sneeze and cough with your mouth open.
- Eat high-fiber foods to avoid getting constipated. Constipation can cause you to strain which puts pressure on the surgery site.
- Be careful when brushing your teeth to keep your upper lip from moving.
- Be careful when putting on clothes to avoid knocking the surgery site. If possible, it is better to wear clothes which fasten in the front as opposed to pulling over your head.
While nose surgery is a relatively mild surgical procedure, recovery from nose surgeries is not an overnight process. Generally, you will experience some degree of swelling and bruising around the nose for up to two weeks or longer.
The recovery time can also vary depending on individual factors such as age, health history, and the complexity of the surgery itself.
Long Term Results
The results of nose sugery can be dramatic, with many patients reporting a significant improvement in their appearance and hence a drastic increase in their self-confidence and overall emotional wellbeing. After the surgery, it may take several weeks or months for the swelling to completely subside and for you to get used to the new look of your nose.
While most people are extremely pleased with the new appearance of their noses after undergoing cosmetic surgery, it’s important to understand that each patient has different expectations and desires.
It’s best to discuss these expectations before having any work done so you can determine if a nose job is right for you and what kind of outcome you should expect from the surgery.
This will help Dr. Kachniarz ensure that you get what you are looking for out of the procedure and are satisfied with the final result.
Are There Any Risks?
Nose surgery can offer transformative results, but it is important to understand the potential risks associated with the procedure. It is typically a low-risk operation, but as with any surgery, there are risks such as:
- Bleeding after the surgery which requires additional treatment.
- Infection, which can usually be managed with antibiotics.
- Complications due to anesthesia.
Other potential risks and side-effects include:
- Changes in the sense of smell.
- Difficulty breathing through the nose.
- Lasting numbness in and around the nose.
- Pain, swelling or discoloration that doesn’t heal with time.
- Permanent scarring.
- Septal perforation, which is a hole in the wall separating the left and right nostrils.
- The need for revision surgery if the first procedure is unsuccessful in achieving the desired outcomes.
- Other irregularities in the shape of the nose.
The most crucial factor in mitigating these risks is selecting a skilled and experienced rhinoplasty surgeon like Dr. Kachniarz. In experienced hands, the procedure carries a low risk of complications.
How Much Does a Nose Job Cost in Miami?
A rhinoplasty in Miami can cost anything in the range of $4,000 – $9,000. The cost depends on several factors such as the complexity and type of surgery that you choose, where you have it done, and any additional treatments required.
Feel free to book a consultation today and we can discuss your needs in more detail, as well as answer any questions you have about surgery and the costs involved.
Can I Combine Other Procedures With Rhinoplasty?
Many patients seeking facial surgery procedures which may also benefit from other surgical and non-surgical procedures to improve their facial symmetry.
The most common plastic surgery procedures used are a necklift and a facelift. This surgery can address not only the nose but also sagging skin and wrinkles on the face, creating a more youthful and revitalized appearance.
BOTOX® and dermal fillers are non-surgical options that can be used in conjunction with rhinoplasty to enhance facial features. Other procedures that can be combined include forehead reduction, eyelid lift surgery, PicoSure Laser Facial, and fat grafting.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Rhinoplasty Painful?
While all surgical procedures come with some level of discomfort, rhinoplasty is generally not considered to be a painful surgery. During the procedure, patients are under anesthesia and will not feel any pain.
However, during recovery, patients may experience some discomfort in the form of nasal congestion and facial pressure. This is due to swelling and bruising that occur after the surgery.
The discomfort is usually most significant in the first few days after the surgery, but it gradually improves over time.
Will Health Insurance Cover the Cost of My Rhinoplasty?
Whether health insurance covers the cost of rhinoplasty depends on several factors. The procedure falls under the category of cosmetic or elective surgery, which means that health insurance does not typically cover the cost. However, there are limited circumstances where insurance companies may cover the cost.
The primary reason for coverage is structural damage or deformity of the nose that affects breathing. If a person has a deviated septum, nasal valve collapse, or another structural issue that causes breathing difficulties, insurance may cover the cost of rhinoplasty to correct the problem.
Does Nose Surgery Leave Visible Scars?
Nose surgery can result in scarring, but in experienced hands, the scars can be discreet and barely visible. Surgeons make careful incisions to minimize any potential visible scars.
In open rhinoplasty, surgeons may make small external incisions in strategic locations such as the columella (the fleshy tissue that separates the nostrils) or the base of the nose.
These incisions typically heal with minimal scarring, and the resulting scars often fade to be virtually invisible over time.
For those concerned about scarring, a closed rhinoplasty approach may be advisable, where incisions are made within the nostrils, and no external incisions are made. The surgeon uses tiny instruments to contour the nose, and scars are hidden inside the nostrils.
What Is a Revision Rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty, also known as secondary rhinoplasty, is a surgical procedure that aims to correct deformities or functional issues that remain after an original procedure.
Its purpose is to refine the appearance of the nose and improve airflow, while addressing any issues that were not resolved during the initial surgery.
Patients may require revision surgery for various reasons, including unsatisfactory results from the original procedure, complications such as infection or bleeding, or changes in nasal structure over time. Some may also seek revision surgery to address breathing difficulties, collapsed nasal passages, or to correct asymmetry.
How Do I Know if I Need a Septoplasty Procedure?
If you’re experiencing difficulty breathing through your nose, it may be due to a deviated septum or sinus condition. The septum is the wall of cartilage that separates your two nostrils, and if it’s crooked or damaged, it can cause breathing problems.
Common signs of a deviated septum include snoring, frequent nosebleeds, frequent sinus infections, and facial pain or headaches.
If left untreated, a deviated septum can lead to chronic sinus infections, sleep apnea, and other health complications. Don’t suffer from the discomfort and inconvenience of breathing problems any longer – consult with a qualified surgeon to determine if septoplasty is the right solution for you.
References
[1] Rhinoplasty – indications and techniques. National Library of Medicine. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3199847/
[2] Rhinoplasty. JAMA Otolaryngol Head Neck Surg. https://jamanetwork.com/journals/jamaotolaryngology/article-abstract/2797521