Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is designed to help those who have a nose that is: too small or too large for the face; off-center or crooked; asymmetrical due to prior injury; afflicted with bumps or depressions; exhibiting excessively flared nostrils. Patients who may benefit from nose surgery can also be those who have a nasal tip that droops, or that is enlarged or too thick. Those who need correction for a deviated septum may also benefit from this procedure. Female patients are typically at least 14 years old, and males at least 15 years old.

If you have questions about rhinoplasty, or would like to discuss all aspects of the procedure with one of our plastic surgeons, please contact the Elena Ocher Medical office to schedule a consultation.

Rhinoplasty Procedure
Rhinoplasty, or nose sculpting surgery, can involve a number of different techniques to achieve the desired results. Traditional rhinoplasty procedures involve incisions made along the outside, or inside, of the nostrils. This allows for scarring that is barely visible, if visible at all, to others. The nasal bone and cartilage is separated and reshaped to meet your ultimate treatment goals. Incisions are then closed and a splint is added to the nose to help it retain its new shape. In some cases gauze may be packed into the nostrils temporarily to hold the septum in position and control bleeding.

Nose sculpting surgery generally takes about two hours or less to complete under general anesthesia. This procedure can be performed as an outpatient.

Rhinoplasty can often be combined with facial implant procedures such as chin augmentation or cosmetic injectable treatments for a more complete makeover and an even better balancing of the facial aesthetic.

Rhinoplasty Recovery
Elevation of the head is crucial for at least a day following rhinoplasty, and any heavy lifting or strenuous activity should be avoided for at least three weeks. It is imperative that the nose be protected from potential harm in the weeks after surgery. Patients should expect swelling and bruising in the nasal area for several days after the procedure; however, swelling should be about 75 percent diminished after about a month. Any pain during recovery can be alleviated with medication. Patients should not blow their nose for at least a week after nose surgery in order to facilitate the healing process. Nasal packing will be removed after a few days, and normal daily activities can typically resume after about a week.

Rhinoplasty Risks
Our doctors are extraordinarily skilled and experienced plastic surgeons, and our team will do everything possible to minimize risks. Our goal is to see that your surgery and recovery process is safe, smooth, and effective, overseen by only the most experienced and well-trained medical professionals.

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