Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)
The nose sits at the center of the face, and even subtle changes to its shape can meaningfully shift the harmony of your entire profile. Rhinoplasty — commonly called a nose job — is one of the most technically complex and artistically demanding procedures in plastic surgery, requiring a precise understanding of both facial aesthetics and nasal anatomy. At Dehesa Dermatology, our surgeon approaches every rhinoplasty with the goal of creating a nose that looks natural and balanced for your face, not a nose that looks like it was operated on.
Whether your concerns are cosmetic, functional, or both, we invite you to schedule a consultation to explore what rhinoplasty can do for you.
Cosmetic and Functional Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty can be performed for cosmetic reasons, functional reasons, or a combination of the two — and many patients find that their surgery addresses both at once.
Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
Cosmetic rhinoplasty reshapes the nose to improve its appearance and its relationship to the rest of the face. Common concerns addressed include a dorsal hump or bump on the bridge, a wide or bulbous nasal tip, a drooping or over-projected tip, asymmetry between the nostrils or nasal bones, a nose that appears too wide or too narrow for the face, and a profile that feels out of proportion. The goal is always balance — a nose that enhances your natural features without calling attention to itself.
Functional Rhinoplasty
Functional rhinoplasty corrects structural problems inside the nose that impair breathing. The most common underlying issue is a deviated septum, in which the wall dividing the two nasal passages is displaced to one side, restricting airflow. Other functional concerns include turbinate hypertrophy (enlarged nasal tissue), collapsed nasal valves, or breathing difficulties resulting from a prior injury or surgery. When functional correction is medically necessary, it is often covered in part by insurance — our team can assist you in navigating this process.
Revision Rhinoplasty
Revision rhinoplasty corrects unsatisfactory results from a previous nose surgery — whether cosmetic concerns remain unresolved, functional problems persist, or complications arose from the initial procedure. Revision rhinoplasty is technically more complex than primary surgery due to altered anatomy and scar tissue from prior work, and it requires a surgeon with specific expertise in secondary nasal reconstruction. Our team performs revision rhinoplasty regularly and welcomes patients seeking a second opinion.
Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty can be performed using one of two fundamental approaches, each with its own advantages:
- Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils), allowing the skin to be lifted for direct visualization of the nasal structures. It provides the greatest access and is preferred for complex reshaping, significant tip work, and revision cases.
- Closed rhinoplasty uses incisions entirely inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scar. It is suitable for more limited modifications and typically involves a shorter recovery.
Your surgeon will recommend the appropriate technique based on the complexity of your goals and nasal anatomy.
The Rhinoplasty Process at Dehesa Dermatology
Your consultation begins with a thorough review of your concerns and goals, followed by an anatomical assessment of your nose and an honest discussion of what surgery can realistically achieve. Digital imaging is used during the consultation to help illustrate potential outcomes and ensure your surgeon understands exactly what you’re looking for before any decisions are made.
Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia and typically takes two to three hours. Most patients return home the same day. A splint is worn on the nose for approximately one week. Swelling is most visible in the first two weeks and continues to resolve gradually over the following months — final results in the nasal tip can take up to twelve months to fully emerge as subtle residual swelling dissipates. Most patients feel comfortable in public within two weeks and can return to non-strenuous work sooner.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty
How long does it take to see my final results?
The majority of swelling resolves within the first four to six weeks, and most patients look and feel significantly improved by that point. However, the nose — particularly the tip — continues to refine over the course of twelve months. Final results are generally considered complete at the one-year mark, when all residual swelling has settled and the tissues have fully adapted to their new position.
Will rhinoplasty affect my ability to breathe?
When performed correctly, cosmetic rhinoplasty should not negatively affect breathing — and in many cases, surgeons find and correct minor structural issues during a cosmetic procedure that actually improve airflow. If you have existing breathing difficulties, your surgeon will evaluate the underlying cause and can address both cosmetic and functional concerns in a single procedure.
Can rhinoplasty change the size of my nose?
Yes — rhinoplasty can reduce overall nasal size, refine the tip, narrow the bridge, or address a dorsal hump to create a smaller or more proportionate profile. It’s important to note that the goal isn’t simply “smaller” but rather balanced — a nose that is harmonious with your unique facial features. Your surgeon will help you understand what changes will look natural given your specific anatomy.
Is rhinoplasty covered by insurance?
Purely cosmetic rhinoplasty is not covered by insurance. However, if your surgery includes correction of a deviated septum or other structural abnormality that impairs breathing, the functional portion of the procedure may be partially covered. Our team can review your specific situation, assist with documentation, and help determine what may be eligible for coverage prior to your surgery date.
What is the minimum age for rhinoplasty?
For cosmetic rhinoplasty, surgeons generally recommend waiting until nasal growth is complete — typically around age 15 to 16 for girls and 17 to 18 for boys. Functional rhinoplasty may be performed earlier if a structural problem is significantly affecting quality of life. Each case is evaluated individually, and parental consent is required for patients under 18.
How is rhinoplasty different from a non-surgical nose job?
Non-surgical rhinoplasty uses injectable fillers to temporarily alter the appearance of the nose — adding volume to camouflage a bump, lifting a drooping tip, or smoothing contour irregularities. It cannot reduce nasal size, narrow the bridge, or correct breathing problems. Results last six to eighteen months. Surgical rhinoplasty provides permanent structural change and is the only option for patients who want lasting, significant reshaping.
What should I avoid before rhinoplasty?
In the two weeks before surgery, patients should avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, naproxen, and other blood-thinning medications and supplements, as these increase the risk of bleeding. Smoking should be stopped at least four weeks before and after surgery, as it significantly impairs healing. Alcohol should be avoided in the week prior to surgery. Your surgeon will provide a complete pre-operative checklist at your consultation.