Nose reshaping surgery, also known as rhinoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the aesthetic appearance of the nose and promote facial harmony. There are a variety of nasal deformities that may be treated by nose reshaping, so the approach to nose reshaping is highly individualized.

If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose for any reason, nose reshaping is an excellent procedure to enhance the appearance of your nose and improve facial harmony. Common complaints of those seeking nose reshaping are:

• “hump” on the nose
• enlarged or bulbous nasal tip
• wide nose or nasal bridge
• large or misshaped nostrils
• crooked nose
• large nose that is not in proportion to the rest of the face

If any of the above are concerns for you and you are in good health and have realistic expectations, nose reshaping may be an excellent procedure for you. Call Allure Plastics today to schedule your appointment with Dr. Walker and see how nose reshaping can improve the appearance of your nose and restore facial harmony and balance. 

While nose reshaping is an excellent procedure for healthy individuals with appropriate expectations, there are some conditions that can increase your potential for a less-than-desirable outcome. These include:

• smoking
• poorly controlled high blood pressure
• previous nose surgery
• bleeding or clotting disorders
• anticoagulation or antiplatelet medications such as Coumadin, Plavix or aspirin
• conditions which result in poor wound healing capability
• young age (facial growth still occurring)
• unrealistic expectations

Nose reshaping surgery, also known as a rhinoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to enhance the aesthetic appearance of the nose.

Nose reshaping is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 2-4 hours to perform. During the procedure, skin incisions are designed to hide within the nose, referred to as a closed rhinoplasty. Alternatively, an incision across the bridge of tissue between the nostrils can be made (referred to as an open rhinoplasty). The skin is lifted to reveal the underlying structural support of the nose.

At this point, a variety of techniques may be utilized to reshape the underlying support of the nose. These techniques may include suture techniques to reshape the framework, cartilage excision or grafting, fracturing the bone to reposition it, rasping of bone to improve “hump” deformities. 

Following the reshaping of the underlying structural support of the nose, the skin is re-draped over then new bone and cartilage foundation and skin incisions are closed.   

Nose reshaping, or rhinoplasty, is well tolerated by the vast majority of patients and most go home the same day. Pain is mild to moderate and is well controlled by oral medications.

Prescriptions will include oral medications for pain, nausea (which is a common occurrence after anesthesia), and an antibiotic.

Both an external splint and internal splint or packing will be applied at the conclusion of your nose reshaping procedure. These will be removed at your follow up appointment. 

Some swelling and bruising is expected. The shape of your new nose may not be readily apparent after removing your splints. However, as swelling resolves and as the overlying skin and soft tissue conforms to the new underlying framework, you will see the results of your procedure. Be patient, as this takes weeks to months to occur. Final result may not be completely realized until 6 months after your procedure. 

You will need to sleep with your head elevated for a few days following nose reshaping to help reduce initial swelling. Strenuous activity and heavy lifting should be avoided for the first week or two. Avoidance of smoking or any other nicotine use is an absolute must. 

While changes will be made in the underlying structure of your nose, results may not be immediately visible. This will take time and will be more noticeable as swelling resolves and the overlying skin conforms to the new underling structure. When this occurs, you should expect to see a more symmetric, aesthetically pleasing nose. There will be a noticeable improvement in your facial balance. Correction of specific abnormalities such as a dorsal hump or bulbous nasal tip will have occurred.

Scars from nose reshaping surgery are hidden within the nose or across the bridge of tissue between your nostrils. Visible scars will mature and fade with time and will not be readily apparent to others. 

*Individual results may vary

Nose reshaping surgery is a very common procedure performed by plastic surgeons. During your consultation, Dr. Walker will perform a detailed history and physical exam. We will identify factors that may cause your risk of surgery to be increased, and together will formulate a plan to help you achieve a more aesthetically pleasing nose. While not common, risks and potential complications include the following:

• skin breakdown or delayed wound healing
• bleeding or hematoma formation
• infection
• unfavorable scarring
• difficulty breathing through nose
• pain
• changes in sensation or sense of smell
• anesthesia risks
• asymmetry
• unsatisfactory appearance of nose
• septal perforation
• need for further surgery

During the preoperative consultation, these potential risks will be discussed with you in detail. Should you have any questions or concerns, they will be addressed. Dr. Walker is dedicated to the education of his patients, and he will help you understand the risks, benefits and potential alternatives of nose reshaping surgery. 

Reshaping of an individual’s nose can be relatively straightforward or e