Nose Job
When people talk about a “nose job,” they might mean one of two things—or both. A functional rhinoplasty corrects breathing issues, like a deviated septum or narrow airways, while an aesthetic nose job reshapes the nose for a look you’ll love. I help my patients with both options: better breathing and a refined appearance. This page will cover both…
Can You Relate To Our Patients?
"I’ve struggled to breathe through my nose for years, and it’s gotten worse with age. On top of that, I’ve never liked how bumpy it looks."
"My nose felt out of proportion with my face—it was too wide, and the tip drooped. Since I was a young teenager it’s always been something I’ve been so self conscious about."
“During college I had an accident and broke my nose. I had it repaired but my breathing has never been normal since then."
How It Works
Part One: The Consultation
If you want a functional rhinoplasty your journey begins with a detailed one-on-one consultation. We’ll examine your nasal structure—focusing inside—checking for breathing issues like a deviated septum, narrow airways, or collapsed nasal valves. Together, we’ll define your goals: easier breathing, better sleep, or relief from chronic sinus problems. I’ll explain how a functional rhinoplasty can open your airways and improve your quality of life, using imaging tools to show how structural changes can enhance airflow. We’ll cover the procedure details, recovery timeline, and any questions you have. This consultation typically lasts about an hour.
If you want an aesthetic rhinoplasty your journey will start with a thorough one-on-one consultation. We’ll assess your nasal structure—focusing outside—noting aesthetic concerns like size, shape, and symmetry. Together, we’ll define your goals like a smoother profile, a refined tip, and better facial harmony. I’ll walk you through the aesthetic rhinoplasty process, using advanced imaging tools to preview potential results so you can visualize your new look. We’ll discuss the procedure, recovery expectations, and your specific questions. This consultation also typically lasts about an hour.
Part Two: The Surgery
A rhinoplasty usually takes 2-4 hours, depending on whether it’s functional, aesthetic, or both, and is performed under general anesthesia for your comfort. For functional corrections, I may straighten a deviated septum or widen nasal passages through internal incisions. For aesthetics, small incisions allow me to reshape cartilage, reduce a hump, or lift the tip depending on your goals. Combining these ensures your nose works as well as it looks. Once finished a splint is applied to support healing.
Part Three: The Recovery
You’ll head home the same day with a detailed aftercare plan, including pain relief and cleaning instructions. After your nose job, the focus is on healing and unveiling your new nose. The first 48-72 hours involve rest with your head elevated to reduce swelling. Cold compresses ease bruising, which peaks around day 3-5 and fades over two weeks. The splint comes off in 7-10 days, revealing early results, though breathing improvements may take longer to fully settle. Most patients return to work or light activities in 10-14 days, but you must avoid strenuous exercise for 4-6 weeks. Swelling gradually resolves and your final rhinoplasty outcome shows up between 6-12 months. My team and I are with you every step, with follow-ups to ensure smooth progress!
Common Patient Concerns About A Rhinoplasty
“How long will recovery really take?”
The initial rhinoplasty recovery spans 10-14 days. This is when swelling, bruising, and the splint are most noticeable. Avoid heavy exercise or anything that risks bumping your nose, but light activities like walking do help circulation. By week two, most patients resume work or social settings, though subtle swelling (especially at the tip) may linger. Full recovery—where breathing optimizes and the shape settles—can take up to a year, but you’ll see major improvements within the first couple months.
“How painful is recovery and how do you help me manage it?”
General anesthesia keeps you pain-free during the rhinoplasty procedure. Afterward, expect mild to moderate discomfort—pressure, stuffiness, or a dull ache—rather than intense pain. This peaks in the first 3-5 days and is managed with prescribed pain relievers or over-the-counter options. Breathing through your mouth (due to temporary nasal packing or swelling) can feel odd but you’ll get used to it. I liken this experience to having a cold or they flu – your nose is temporarily unusable. We’re here with regular check-ins and follow-ups to keep you at ease.
“Will the scarring be noticeable?”
Scarring worries many, especially for an aesthetic nose job because the whole goal is giving you a nose you’re more proud of. With a closed rhinoplasty (all incisions inside the nostrils), there’s no visible scarring. For an open rhinoplasty (a small cut across the columella), the scar is tiny and fades to near-invisibility within 6-12 months with proper care (like sunscreen and silicone gel, which we provide). My techniques ensure scars blend into your nose’s natural lines, whether we’re fixing breathing or refining shape.
What Our Patients Are Saying About Their Rhinoplasty
"I can finally breathe freely, and my nose looks so much better—no more hump! The process was smoother than I thought. If you can relate to this, just get this done, it’ll be the best decision you’ve ever made!”
"I was nervous about changing my nose, but it’s perfect now—subtle, natural, and just how I wanted it. I feel so much more confident."
"Fixing my breathing AND shape together was a game-changer. I’m thrilled with the results."
