Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job, describes plastic surgery done on the nose. It can cosmetic, functional, or both. Cosmetic rhinoplasty improves the patient’s appearance by making their nose more proportionate or attractive. Cosmetic rhinoplasty can involve changing the size of the nose, removing bumps, or altering the tip. Functional rhinoplasty enables the patient to breathe through their nose more easily, and it can involve removing obstructions like polyps or straightening a deviated septum. A functional nose job can be done to repair an injury or correct a birth defect.

What Can a Patient Expect?

The first step will be a consultation during which the surgeon and patient will map out a plan. The surgeon will consider the patient’s other facial features like their chin, cheeks, and forehead to ensure that the patient’s nose will be in balance with them. They will also discuss the details of the surgery, like the type of anesthesia used and the exact procedure.

Rhinoplasty is generally an outpatient procedure. It can be closed or open. During a closed nose job, the surgeon does all the work and makes all the incisions inside the nose. During an open rhinoplasty, which is the older technique, the surgeon will make an incision across the columella or strip of cartilage separating the nostrils at the bottom of the nose. The surgeon is most likely to choose an open rhinoplasty if they have to perform an involved procedure.

After the procedure, the surgeon will place protective bandages around the nose to ensure it heals properly. They will also schedule a follow-up appointment so they can check the patient’s progress.

Who Is a Good Candidate?

The ideal candidate will be someone with realistic expectations and good overall health. Generally speaking, surgeons prefer to operate on patients who have finished growing. That means they prefer patients who are at least in their mid-teens.

Smokers are not good candidates, for the chemicals in tobacco delay healing and can cause complications like increased pain.

What Is a Septoplasty?

A septoplasty is a type of rhinoplasty done to correct a deviated septum. The septum is the cartilage and bone that divides the nostrils. A deviated or crooked septum can impair breathing by blocking the airway on one side of the nose. During a septoplasty, the surgeon will remove the bone and cartilage causing the blockage and straighten the septum.

Visit Murphy Plastic Surgery in Englewood to learn more about rhinoplasty and what we offer. We serve residents throughout the Denver, CO area. Contact us today to schedule your consultation!