In 2012, rhinoplasty, also called nose reshaping or a nose job, was the second most popular plastic surgery in the US, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. A nose reshaping procedure can make your nose look better by changing its size or shape. The procedure can also fix breathing problems by adjusting any abnormalities in the nose. Dr. Ary Krau specializes in rhinoplasty procedures and notes that they are one of his favorite surgeries to perform.
Why Would I Want Rhinoplasty?
People want a nose job for a number of reasons. You might think that your nose is too large for your face or that your nose is too wide. Another reason why you might want to undergo a nose reshaping procedure is because there is a bump in your nose or because the nostrils flare.
Some people are better suited for the surgery than others. Your age is something to think about. Usually, a rhinoplasty isn’t recommended for anyone under 15, as the nose is still growing. Your overall health is another consideration. The surgery isn’t recommended if you smoke or if you have certain medical conditions.
What Happens During the Surgery?
The surgical process can vary from patient to patient. At Dr. Krau’s plastic surgery center, rhinoplasty is performed under general or local anesthesia and sedation. The surgeon will make incisions either inside the nose or externally, depending on the procedure.
Once the incisions are made, the cartilage can be removed from the area or shaped if the goal is to reduce the size. If the size needs to be increased, cartilage can be taken from other areas of the body and grafted to the nose. At the end of the surgery, the incisions will be closed and the splint inserted to hold the nose in place as it heals.
What is the Recovery Process?
Most patients are back on their feet within a few weeks after a nose job. The nose itself can take up to an entire year to fully heal but definite changes are usually visible after a few weeks. Your surgeon will tell you how to hold your head, when to come back for a follow up appointment and what medications are okay to take while you heal.
