Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Results

Rhinoplasty surgery is one of the most common plastic surgeries performed each year. This procedure allows surgeons to make a number of changes to the structure of the nose, drastically altering a patient’s appearance. The results of rhinoplasty surgery, however, are not without limitations. Before undergoing rhinoplasty, as with any other surgical procedure, it is important to understand all possible outcomes and set realistic expectations. Below is some information on rhinoplasty results, and what patients can expect following surgery.

Setting Expectations for Nose Surgery

Rhinoplasty surgery, also known as nose reshaping surgery, can be used to correct a number of aesthetic flaws. The surgery can result in a greater balance of facial features, the elimination of bumps or unevenness, and a noticeable change in the size of the nose. In order to achieve ideal results, however, it is important for patients to be completely candid with their surgeon prior to surgery. In the initial surgical consultation, patients should discuss their specific needs and aesthetic goals in order to assure that these goals are realistic and attainable. Your surgeon will evaluate the current form of your nose in order to determine which changes are realistic. For example, patients who are undergoing revision rhinoplasty may have more restrictions on the results of the surgery. Fortunately, even small changes-millimeters added, subtracted, or shifted- can have major, positive effects on your overall appearance.

A Preview of Rhinoplasty Results

With modern technology, patients can actually get a preview of what the results of their rhinoplasty surgery might look like. Digital imaging technology allows surgeons to construct 3-D virtual models of the face as it will appear. It is important to note, however, that while this 3D model will serve as a guide for the surgeon, there is no guarantee that the nose job will yield those precise results.

How Long Until I See Final Results?

Rhinoplasty is unique in that the final results of the surgery can take up to one full year to develop. Side effects such as swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes can hinder the appearance of the nose for the first two to three weeks. While subtle changes may be visible in the first weeks following surgery, most individuals will need to be patient in regards to the final outcome. In the months following surgery your nose will begin to settle in to its final shape. Because the final results of rhinoplasty take a significant amount of time, patients are discouraged from undergoing revision rhinoplasty until a full year has passed.

Will there be Permanent Scarring?

As with almost all forms of plastic surgery, there is a possibility for scarring following rhinoplasty. In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nostrils and will therefore not leave behind any visible scars. In open rhinoplasty, an additional incision made across the columella may leave a small scar behind. Fortunately, due to the size and location of the incision this scar is usually unnoticeable.

What if I am not Happy with my Results?

Unfortunately, despite a surgeon’s best efforts there are some occasions where patients are unhappy with the results of their surgery. This can stem from a number of causes including surgical error or unrealistic expectations on the patient’s part. Because the final results of rhinoplasty can take up to a year to develop, it is important not to panic if the nose hasn’t taken its ideal shape in the first few months. If a patient is unhappy with the nose even after the final shape has stabilized, there are options for treatment and correction. Depending on the extent of changes that need to be made, a surgeon may recommend non-surgical nose reshaping or secondary (revision) rhinoplasty.

Many Patients Want to Know …

How long can I expect to fully recover?

The recovery process for rhinoplasty surgery varies with each individual patient. Most patients, however, are able to return to their normal routine after about one week. Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes should subside within 2 to 3 days The best way to ensure a fast recovery is to closely follow your surgeon’s post-operative care instructions. Learn more about recovering from rhinoplasty.