Prior to surgery you will meet your surgeon for a consultation to review your medical history, complete a physical exam that includes bloodwork, have photographs taken and discuss the outcome you wish to achieve through surgery. Rhinoplasty does not have an ordered series of procedure steps; each surgery is unique and customized for each patient. 

Rhinoplasty usually requires general anesthesia. Two incision patterns can be made depending on if you are having a closed or open procedure. In a closed procedure, the incisions are hidden inside the nose. In an open procedure, the incision is made across the columella (the strip of tissue separating the nostrils). Your surgeon can change the shape, size and appearance of your nasal bones, cartilage, and nostrils. After these changes are made, the surgeon places the nose’s skin and tissue back and stitches the incisions in your nose.

After the surgery, you’ll be in a recovery room, where the staff monitors your return to wakefulness. You might leave later that day or stay overnight, depending on your condition. In most cases, the internal dressings remain in place for one to seven days after surgery. Your surgeon will also tape a splint to your nose for protection and support for about one week. Some temporary swelling or black/blue discoloration of your eyelids can occur for 2 to 3 weeks after your surgery. The swelling of the nose will take longer to resolve.

After your surgery, your nose will change progressively to its definitive new shape. The complete healing process can take up to one year, depending on the patient.