What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a specialized surgery of the nose that may improve its appearance and proportion to enhance facial harmony and confidence. Rhinoplasty by our Kansas City-area surgeons may also correct impaired breathing caused by structural defects in the nose. If you desire a more symmetrical nose, keep in mind that everyone’s face is asymmetric to some degree. Because the goal of most rhinoplasty procedures is to create facial balance, your results may not be completely symmetrical.
If you’d like to learn more about rhinoplasty at Associated Plastic Surgeons, call our office at (913) 451-3722. You can also request your consultation online.
Benefits of Rhinoplasty
Sometimes informally called a “nose job” by our Kansas City patients, rhinoplasty can:
- Enhance your facial balance, thereby improving your overall appearance
- Correct structural defects in the nose, allowing you to breathe easier
- Eliminate visible humps or depressions on the bridge of your nose
- Improve the symmetry of your nose
Preparing for Rhinoplasty
Prior to your rhinoplasty procedure, you’ll meet with one of our surgeons for a private consultation. During this meeting, you’ll be asked many questions to ensure you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty. Be prepared to discuss your health history and lifestyle, as well as the likely outcomes and potential risks associated with the procedure. You may also be instructed to temporarily stop the use of certain medications and undergo lab testing before your surgery.
If you’re considering nose surgery to improve your breathing, your insurance provider may cover part or all of the cost.
Your rhinoplasty will be performed at a licensed surgical center within the Kansas City metropolitan area.
Rhinoplasty: Frequently Asked Questions
How do I know whether I’m a good candidate for rhinoplasty?
To ensure successful healing, we recommend that all prospective rhinoplasty patients are nonsmokers who are in good health. Rhinoplasty is best performed when the growth of the face is complete, which usually occurs around age 15. Patients should also have positive outlooks with specific, realistic goals in mind for improving their images.
What can I expect during my recovery?
Following all of your doctor’s instructions is essential for a successful recovery. You’ll need to enlist a trusted loved one to drive you to and from the surgery and stay with you throughout the night. Once your procedure is completed, a splint and/or packing will likely be placed inside and outside of your nose to support and protect the new structures. You’ll also be instructed to keep your head elevated at all times until most swelling has subsided. Nasal packing should be kept in place until it’s removed by your surgeon.
Though discomfort is common, it’s usually manageable with medication. You may return to light activity as soon as you feel ready, normally a few days after surgery. Any packing or splints are usually removed after the first week. Most patients are comfortable returning to work or school once the splints have been removed.
What are the long-term effects of rhinoplasty?
Healing from your rhinoplasty will continue for at least several weeks as swelling resolves and incision lines fade. You must practice diligent sun protection until the healing process is fully complete. You should also protect your nose from injury for at least 4 to 6 months. This means avoiding contact sports and other activities that leave your nose prone to injury. Though your nose will be visibly different immediately following surgery, it can take up to a year for it to completely settle into its new shape.
Will my rhinoplasty results last forever?
In general, the results of nose surgery are long lasting. However, because cartilage is continually growing and moving, the shape of your nose can change over time. These changes are usually minor.