Rhinoplasty Pittsburgh

Rhinoplasty or cosmetic surgery to reshape the nose is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip. It may also correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing problems.

Is a Rhinoplasty Right For Me?

A rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job or as a nose reshaping procedure, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the overall appearance of your nose, by altering its shape, positioning, and proportions. While it is well-known as a cosmetic surgery, a rhinoplasty also has medical benefits, as it is used to correct structural defects in the nasal cavity for those with impaired breathing.

What results can I expect from a rhinoplasty?

Cosmetically, a rhinoplasty can:

– alter the size of your nose to improve facial proportions, including the nostrils and tip of the nose if desired

– improve the symmetry of your nose

– change the width of the bridge of your nose

– change the size, shape, or positioning of your nostrils

– Smooth out the bridge of your nose when visible bumps or depressions are present

– improve the appearance of the tip of your nose, if it is hooked, upturned, bulbous, or drooping

Medically, undergoing a rhinoplasty may help you to breathe more fully and effortlessly if you have structural defects in your nose. An example of this would be in individuals with a deviated septum; during the procedure, Pittsburgh plastic surgeon Dr. Golla will produce a better alignment of the nasal structures in order to facilitate a more open airway.

It is important to note that while a rhinoplasty can improve the symmetry of your nose if desired, the results will come close but may not be mirror images of both the sides. However, nobody’s nose is naturally symmetrical; some individuals just may have more natural symmetry than others.

Who is a good candidate for a rhinoplasty?

Ideal candidates are those who:

– have reached an age where facial growth is finished

– are in good general health

– are non-smokers

– have realistic expectations and goals for the outcome of the surgery

Speaking honestly with our cosmetic surgeon about your desired outcome of the surgery will help you to set realistic expectations that are individual to you.

What is the nose plastic surgery recovery period like?

Depending on the procedure, immediately following your procedure, a splint and gauze or packing will be applied inside and outside of your nose in order to support the new changes to your nasal structure. These will be in place for the first few days of your recovery, after which time they can be removed. Bruising, swelling, redness, and discomfort may be present for the first few weeks following the procedure. The final results of your rhinoplasty will not be seen for up to a year, as your nose adjusts to the new shape and contours, although you will see progressive changes soon after your procedure.

It is common for individuals who have undergone a rhinoplasty to experience swelling on and off throughout the first year, which typically is worse in the morning and reduces throughout the day. Our plastic surgeons may prescribe you medications to be taken orally or applied topically to support the healing process and to protect against infection. Dr. Golla will also instruct you on how to care for the incision site, and what changes you can make to your lifestyle to promote a smooth recovery.

If you are unhappy with the size, positioning, proportion, or shape of your nose, or have breathing impairment caused by structural defects in your nose, a rhinoplasty may be for you. Speak with our plastic surgeons about your options, and whether a rhinoplasty is the best option for your desired outcome.

For more information about Nose Surgery/Rhinoplasty in Pittsburgh, please call us at 412-963-6677.