Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is one of the most technically complex facial plastic surgery procedures, requiring a precise balance between aesthetic change and functional nasal airway preservation. MetroDerm’s Center for Plastic Surgery offers both cosmetic rhinoplasty to reshape, reduce, or refine the nose, and functional rhinoplasty to correct breathing problems caused by structural abnormalities. Our board-certified plastic surgeons work with each patient individually to achieve a natural result harmonious with their unique facial anatomy.

What Can Rhinoplasty Change?

• Nose size — reduction or augmentation relative to overall facial proportions
• Nose profile — correcting dorsal humps (bumps on the bridge) or saddle nose deformities
• Tip definition — refining a bulbous, wide, drooping, or asymmetric nasal tip
  Nasal width — narrowing the base or bridge
• Symmetry — correcting crooked or deviated appearance
• Nostril size and shape
• Breathing — correcting internal nasal valve narrowing, septal deviations, or turbinate hypertrophy (often combined with septoplasty)

Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

Open Rhinoplasty

A small incision is made across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils), allowing the surgeon to fully reflect nasal skin and work with direct visualization of the cartilaginous framework. Preferred for complex reshaping, significant tip work, or revision cases.

Closed (Endonasal) Rhinoplasty

All incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scar. Better suited for limited changes such as hump reduction or minor tip refinement.

Rhinoplasty Recovery

Expect nasal swelling and bruising around the eyes for the first 1-2 weeks. A nasal splint is worn for the first week. Most patients return to work in 10-14 days; strenuous activity is restricted for 4-6 weeks. Nasal swelling resolves gradually over 12-18 months. The final refined result is not fully visible until 1 year or more post-surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: How long does rhinoplasty recovery take?

A: Most visible bruising and swelling resolve within 2-3 weeks, but subtle residual swelling, particularly at the tip, continues to improve for 12-18 months. Most patients are comfortable returning to social activities in 2-3 weeks and exercise in 4-6 weeks.

Q: Can rhinoplasty fix breathing problems?

A: Yes. Functional rhinoplasty (often combined with septoplasty) corrects structural abnormalities that impair nasal breathing, including septal deviation, internal nasal valve narrowing, and turbinate hypertrophy. Functional rhinoplasty is typically covered by insurance when medically documented. Cosmetic changes performed during the same surgery are the patient’s responsibility.

Q: What is the best age for rhinoplasty?

A: Rhinoplasty is best performed after the nose has finished growing, typically age 16-17 for girls and 17-18 for boys. There is no upper age limit; however, older patients may have reduced skin elasticity that must be factored into the surgical plan.

Procedures & Treatments