Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery, Nose Job) Photos

Do you feel that the shape of your nose detracts from your face’s overall attractiveness?  If so, you may wish to look into rhinoplasty, otherwise known as a nose job.  By performing this cosmetic nose reshaping surgery, Dr. Usha Rajagopal of the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center can enhance your nose’s overall appearance.

San Francisco Bay Area plastic surgeon, Dr. Rajagopal has over 20 years’ experience in performing this complex, surgical procedure.  As a board certified plastic surgeon, she firmly believes that by performing rhinoplasty, she can balance the proportions of the face significantly.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

The rhinoplasty, or nose job, procedure is determined by the type of correction to be made. In most cases involving a reduction in size or shape of the nose, the removal of a hump or the improvement of an angle, incisions are made inside the nose. Working through these incisions, Dr. Rajagopal is able to cut bone and cartilage (the soft, movable tissue inside the nose) to reshape it.

To remove a nasal hump, a special file or chisel is used. A narrower nasal bridge is then formed by bringing together the bones on either side of the face. In patients in whom the size of the nasal tip is too large, cartilage is removed through the inside incision. The angle between the nose and the upper lip can be improved by elevating and trimming the septum, the dividing wall between the two chambers of the nose.

In some cases, it is necessary to narrow the base of the nose. This procedure involves removal of skin from both sides of the nostrils at the center, in order to improve the contour of the noses of some patients. It is sometimes necessary to add tissue. These procedures can last from one and a half to two hours or more, depending upon the extent of surgery.

After Your Rhinoplasty Surgery

A lightweight splint is applied to maintain the new shape of the nose. The splint is usually removed within a week. Nasal pads may be inserted at the time of surgery to protect the septum. This packing is removed within two to three days. Before and even after the packing is removed, there is frequently some stuffiness of the nose.

Pain connected with the surgery is minimal to moderate and is controlled with oral medication. Bruising around the eyes occurs but begins to fade within a few days. Discoloration usually disappears in two to three weeks. Swelling can be reduced by keeping the head in a slightly elevated position when reclining. Cold compresses may be recommended. Some slight swelling may be present for as long as four months to a year.

If you have any questions regarding a Rhinoplasty or Nose Job, or wish to schedule a consultation, please call the San Francisco Plastic Surgery & Laser Center at 415-392-3333.