With this procedure, several goals can be met. These include reducing the size
of the nose, having the bridge of the nose straightened or thinned, having the
nasal tip better defined or shortened and having the nostrils narrowed. Breathing
difficulties, such as a deviated septum or perhaps nasal allergies may also be
alleviated. During your consultation, the surgeon will discuss realistic goals and
outcomes with you. As a note, nasal surgery is not generally performed on
teenagers under the age of 15, as the nasal bone growth is not complete before
this time. The intended result is a more attractive nasal shape, a nose in better
proportion to your unique facial features.

The procedure is done on an outpatient basis under sedation, and local or
general anesthesia. Incisions are made inside the nostrils. The nasal bones,
cartilage, and soft tissues are reshaped to improve the external contour.
Frequently, used for difficult or larger noses, one external incision may be made
across the columella (strut between the nostrils). The scar from this incision
tends  to be very inconspicuous after healing. Bones, cartilage, and soft tissues
are reshaped under direct vision. If only the nasal tip is abnormal, it may be
corrected with either a standard or external (open) approach. Large nostrils may
be reduced through tiny incisions at the outer base of the nostrils with either type
of rhinoplasty. These scars are concealed well within the natural fold at the side
of  the nostril. In some cases where the nasal support needs to be rebuilt,
cartilage can be harvested from the nose or another part of the body such as the
ear.

The patient will go home with an external cast or splint in place. The nose may
be packed for 24-48 hours. The cast or splint is usually removed in 7-10 days.
Initial discomfort is easily controlled with oral medication. The majority of swelling
and bruising subsides progressively over 2-4 weeks. External sutures (if any) are
removed in 4-6 days. Internal sutures dissolve. A semifinal result is evident in 3
months when most of the swelling has receded. The final result is evident in
12-14 months, which is the time necessary for complete tissue softening.










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