Rhinoplasty: A Life Changing Operation

Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job”, can be a truly life changing surgical procedure.  The nose is one of the first physical things noticed about an individual.  “As plain as the nose on your face” is a true and apt expression. A person with an overly large, small or misshapen nose can feel shy, introverted or just less himself or herself in a social situation.  Instead of interacting freely with others, a person with the need for rhinoplasty, has their attention focused inward.

If you find yourself worrying about how others view your nose or about how you, yourself feel when you look in the mirror, it may be a good time to talk to a rhinoplasty specialist.

Rhinoplasty or nose reshaping is the second most popular cosmetic procedure. (In case you’re wondering, the first most popular is breast augmentation.)

Rhinoplasty is also one of the most complex and intricate types of plastic surgery.  The procedure must be very exact; a slight difference of a matter of a millimeter or two could be the difference between a beautiful nose and a flawed result that needs to be redone.  The skill it takes to perform this surgery is why it’s so important to have a real specialist perform the operation.

Here are some common situations that can be corrected with rhinoplasty:

The tip of the nose is too wide or bulbous

The tip of the nose or the nose itself is asymmetrical or out of proportion

There is a noticeable hump on the nose bone

The nose is observably crooked

The nose has been broken in an accident

A nose that is too big for the face

An obstruction or structural problem is causing difficulty with breathing

Rhinoplasty can fix any of these unwanted physical features or medical problems.

Rhinoplasty Procedure

The procedure for rhinoplasty surgery varies, depending on the exact steps to be performed.  It can be done under general anesthesia or with a local anesthetic.  The operation usually lasts for about three hours and involves intricate incisions and surgical work on the bones and cartilage of the nose.

Your doctor will discuss the exact procedure for your particular rhinoplasty surgery with you.

Recovery from Rhinoplasty Surgery

It’s important to follow all your doctor’s instructions after your surgery.  In general, you will need to stay at home and get much rest; move as little as possible.  Over the counter analgesics can usually take care of any pain you may experience after the operation.

A splint and bandages are applied to the nose and adjacent area immediately after the operation to protects the nose, minimize movement and aid in the healing process. 

You should not smoke for several weeks following the surgery.  Once the bandages have been removed, your nose will need to be shaded from the sun for the first several months to a year while your body heals and adjusts to the changes from the surgery.

If you live in Columbus, Ohio or the surrounding areas and find you have attention on your facial appearance or feel concern over the size or shape of your nose, come in and talk to Dr. Bivik Shah.  

As a top rhinoplasty specialist, Dr. Bivik Shah understands the importance of the nose to self-esteem and confidence and has the experience, training and knowledge to give you the best advice and great results.  Don’t trust this important feature and delicate operation to anyone who does not have Dr. Shah’s qualifications. 

If you are interested in nose surgery, in Columbus or the surrounding areas of Franklin County, please contact the Columbus Institute of Plastic Surgery by calling (614) 322-2500 or fill out our online contact form today.