Nothing has a greater impact on how a person looks than the size and shape of their nose. Because the nose is the most defining characteristic of the face, a slight alteration can greatly improve one's appearance.

As with all facial plastic surgery, good health and realistic expectations are prerequisites. Understanding nose surgery is also critical. Since there is no ideal in rhinoplasty, the goal is to improve the nose aesthetically, making it harmonize better with your other facial features.

Skin type, ethnic background, and age are important factors to be considered in discussions with your surgeon prior to surgery. Before deciding on rhinoplasty, ask your facial plastic surgeon if any additional surgery might be recommended to enhance the appearance of your face. Many patients have chin augmentation in conjunction with rhinoplasty to create a better balance of features.

Many facial plastic surgeons are trained in both; ear, nose, throat and cosmetic surgery, which provides you with the highest level of training and expertise. You can expect a thorough examination of the structure of your nose, both externally and internally. Your surgeon will explain how the nasal structures, including bone, cartilage and skin can be sculpted to reshape the nose.

The majority of incisions are made inside the nose. The skin is lifted from its underlying bone and cartilage support system. Next, certain amounts of bone and cartilage are removed or rearranged to provide a newly shaped structure. If the tip of the nose is too large, the surgeon can sculpt the cartilage in this area to reduce its size. The angle of the nose can also be altered for a more youthful look or to correct a distortion. The skin is then re-draped over the new frame and the incisions are closed.

Immediately after your surgery, a small nasal splint will be placed on your nose to protect it and to keep the structure stable for 5-8 days. Absorbable sutures are used that do not have to be removed. Your face will feel puffy, and you will experience some bruising, swelling and congestion in the immediate days following surgery. It is crucial that you follow your surgeon's directions. Some activities will be prohibited in the weeks after the procedure. Sun exposure, exertion, and risk of injury must be avoided. If you wear glasses, special arrangements must be made to ensure that the glasses do not rest on the bridge of your nose.

Follow-up care is vital for this procedure to monitor healing. Obviously, anything unusual should be reported to your surgeon immediately. It is essential that you keep all of your follow-up appointments.

Successful facial plastic surgery is a result of a good rapport between patient and surgeon. Trust, based on realistic expectations and exacting medical expertise, develops in the consulting stage prior to surgery.

Source from Gregory C. Roche, D.O., Bloomfield Hills, MI

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