Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that is used to alter the shape or size of the nose. It can be used to correct a variety of cosmetic and functional problems, such as a crooked nose, a nose that is too large or too small, or a nose that has been injured. The procedure is typically performed by a plastic surgeon and can be done on an outpatient basis under general anesthesia. Recovery from rhinoplasty can take several weeks, and it is important for patients to follow their surgeon’s instructions carefully to ensure proper healing.
There are two main types of rhinoplasty procedures: open and closed. During an open rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision on the outside of the nose, between the nostrils. This allows the surgeon to have a clear view of the inside of the nose and to make changes to the structure of the nose. In a closed rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes all the incisions inside the nostrils, so there are no visible scars.
There are also several different techniques that can be used during a rhinoplasty procedure, depending on the specific goals of the surgery. Some common techniques include:
Augmentation rhinoplasty: This procedure is used to add volume to the nose, typically by using an implant or by reshaping the cartilage.
Reduction rhinoplasty: This procedure is used to reduce the size of the nose, typically by removing bone or cartilage.
Reshaping rhinoplasty: This procedure is used to alter the shape of the nose, typically by changing the shape of the bone or cartilage.
Septoplasty: This procedure is used to correct a deviated septum, which is a condition in which the bone and cartilage in the nose are misaligned.
Nasal valve repair: This procedure is used to correct problems with the nasal valves, which are the small openings on either side of the nose that allow air to flow in and out.
Tip plasty: This procedure is used to alter the shape of the tip of the nose.
Alar base reduction: This procedure is used to narrow the nostrils by removing excess skin and tissue from the alar base (the area where the nostrils meet the cheek).