The nose, located in the center of our face, is often the first facial feature that people notice. Therefore, even subtle alterations to its shape and/or size can change one’s appearance dramatically. What is an aesthetically well-balanced nose will vary based on gender, facial structure, and ethnicity. Some patients may also have issues with structures inside the nose (e.g. septum and inferior turbinates) that obstruct breathing and need correction. At the time of your consultation, Dr. Li will analyze your nose in detail and discuss whether Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty) is a good option for you.
Nose surgery is typically performed using hidden incisions at the bottom (columella) and inside the nose. Depending on the patient’s specific goals, different maneuvers are used, including reducing any bony/cartilage humps, narrowing the nose, altering the shape, projection, or angle of the tip, reducing the size or altering the shape of the nostrils, and/or improving any asymmetries. Sometimes, cartilage grafts may also be needed from spare parts from inside the nose, the ear, or the ribs, to strengthen and support the nose.
KEY POINTS
SURGERY UNDER GENERAL ANESTHETIC
GO HOME THE SAME DAY (DAY SURGERY)
RETURN TO NORMAL ACTIVITIES WITHIN 1-2 WEEKS
RESULTS ARE PERMANENT AND LONG-STANDING
IMPROVE FACIAL HARMONY
CORRECT NASAL ASYMMETRIES AND CONTOUR ISSUES
HIDE SCARS BELOW AND INSIDE THE NOSE
RELIEVE NASAL OBSTRUCTION AND IMPROVE BREATHING
WHAT TO EXPECT BEFORE SURGERY
You will be evaluated by Dr. Li at the time of your initial consultation to determine if Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty) is the best option for you
You will be required to quit smoking and oral contraceptives 4 weeks before surgery
You will need to complete testing before surgery, which may include a physical with your PCP/primary physician, blood work, and an ECG
Prescriptions for your surgery will be sent to your local pharmacy, please obtain these medications ahead of time and bring them to your surgery
A deposit is required to secure your surgery date
Full payment is required 2 weeks before surgery; payment options include cash, cashier's check, or credit through Alphaeon or CareCredit
WHAT TO EXPECT AFTER SURGERY
General anesthesia can sometimes cause generalized body soreness and fatigue for a couple of days
Maximum discomfort will occur in the first few days after surgery and gradually improve
You will not be allowed to engage in any significant exercise (e.g. running, lifting weights) for 3 weeks
You will need to use nasal rinses to clear congestion and ice-packs after surgery to decrease swelling
You will wear a splint over your nose for 1 week
You may experience temporary bruising, swelling, numbness, or a burning sensation involving your nose; bruising and swelling takes several weeks to improve; numbness takes a couple months to normalize
Scars may be red and firm for approximately 6 months before they soften and fade