Rhinoplasty
Nose Refinement (Rhinoplasty)
Reshaping your nose
Nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, can change:
- The size of your nose
- The size of your nostrils
- The shape of your nose’s tip
- The shape of your nose’s bridge
- The angle between your nose and upper lip
Augusta Plastic Surgery also performs the procedure to correct birth defects or injuries, or help relieve breathing problems.
Nearly anyone in good physical and mental health is a candidate for nose surgery, though our surgeons prefer not to operate on teenagers until they are done growing.
What does nose surgery involve?
There are two methods for performing the surgery:
- Within the nose, using an incision made inside your nostrils
- An "open" procedure, using a small incision in the columella (the tissue separating your nostrils)
The surgeon separates the skin of your nose from its bone and cartilage, then sculpts the cartilage into its new shape and redrapes the skin. The surgery usually takes one to two hours and is done on an outpatient basis. If your procedure is more complicated and requires an inpatient stay, the operation will be held at one of the local hospitals where our surgeons have privileges.
What should I expect after my nose surgery?
Be prepared to stay in bed with your head elevated the first day, and expect your face to feel puffy. Other possible side effects can include soreness in the nose and a dull headache. These can be relieved with pain medication.
You should be ready for minimal activity in a couple days and able to return to school or work after a week, as long as your work is not strenuous. The swelling and bruising around your eyes will peak after two or three days but should disappear within a couple weeks. We will remove all stitches, dressings and splints after one or two weeks.
Interested in computer imaging for your rhinoplasty. We can provide projected images of how a rhinoplasty can change your appearance. Photos will be taken at your visit and either shown to you that day or sent to you via email after your consultation.
