Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty)

See Dr. Newen’s Before and After Nose Reshaping (Rhinoplasty) Photos

Rhinoplasty, surgery to reshape the nose, is a popular procedure that many patients elect to undergo to sculpt and refine their nose. Rhinoplasty can reduce the size of the nose, alter the tip or bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between the nose and the upper lip. It can correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve breathing problems.

If you are considering rhinoplasty, we want you to be thoroughly informed about the procedure. Below is some helpful information. A personal consultation with Dr. Newen is the best way to obtain the additional information you will need.

Am I good candidate for rhinoplasty?

The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are looking for improvement in the size, length, or fullness of their nose, and who would like a more proportionate appearance to their nose. Nasal breathing difficulties may also be treated.

Your personal consultation

During the consultation with Dr. Newen, you will be asked about the results you expect to achieve from rhinoplasty. This will help him to understand your expectations and determine whether they can be realistically achieved.

How will Dr. Newen evaluate me for rhinoplasty?

You should be prepared to discuss your medical history. This will include information about any medical conditions, drug allergies, medical treatments you have received, previous surgeries, any breathing problems, and medications that you currently take. It is important for you to provide complete information.

How rhinoplasty is performed?

Rhinoplasty can be performed as a “closed” procedure, with incisions inside the nostrils. It can also be performed as an “open” procedure, especially in more complicated cases. In that case, a small incision is made across the columella, the vertical strip of issue of tissue separating the nostrils. The skin of the nose is separated from its supporting framework of bone and cartilage. The nose is then sculpted to its desired shape. Once the sculpting is done, the skin is re-draped over the new framework.

When surgery is complete, a splint will be applied to help your nose maintain its new shape. It may also be necessary to use nasal packs or soft plastic splints to stabilize the septum, the dividing wall between the air passages.

Medications are administered for your comfort during the procedure. Rhinoplasty is usually done under general anesthesia. However, when only minor corrections are desired, it may be possible to have the procedure done under local anesthesia with IV sedation. Dr. Newen will discuss which type of anesthetic will be best for you.

Understanding risks

Significant complications from rhinoplasty are very rare. Dr. Newen has performed thousands of rhinoplasties, and his patients generally do not experience any major problems and are pleased with the results. Anyone considering surgery, however, should be aware of both the benefits and risks.

The subject of risks and potential complications of surgery is best discussed on a personal basis during your consultation with Dr. Newen. After surgery, there may be a temporary feeling of nasal stuffiness, pain, swelling, and bruising. The types of symptoms experienced and the duration of the symptoms vary in patients.

Your surgical experience

Our goal is to make your surgical experience as easy and comfortable for you as possible. If you’re a smoker, you will be asked to stop smoking well in advance of surgery. Aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs can cause increased bleeding, so you should avoid taking these medications for a period of time before surgery. You will be provided with complete preoperative and postoperative instructions.

Rhinoplasty is performed at Huntington Surgery Center, our outpatient surgery facility located within The Image Center. Please be sure to arrange for someone to drive you home after your procedure and stay with you for at least 24 hours.

Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty

A non-surgical alternative to rhinoplasty is to have Radiesse injections to the nose. Depending on the individual goals of the patient, Radiesse injections can smooth out a hump, lift the nasal tip, or make the bridge higher. Results are immediate, and will last approximately 6-8 months. This is a great alternative for patients who want to see how they would look with a rhinoplasty without having to commit to the permanency of surgery.

For more information

For more information on rhinoplasty or to schedule a consultation, please call our office at (714) 230-2430.