As a plastic surgeon with years of experience in performing rhinoplasty procedures, I am often asked by my patients how long the results of a nose job will last. The answer is simple: a rhinoplasty is a permanent body modification procedure, and the results will last a lifetime. However, it is important to note that as we age, our bodies naturally go through changes. This can also affect the appearance of our nose, but the improvements made during a rhinoplasty will remain relatively permanent. Of course, there are some exceptions to this rule, and in some cases, a second rhinoplasty may be necessary to adjust for any cosmetic changes and meet the patient's expectations once they have fully healed. The duration of a rhinoplasty procedure can vary depending on the technique used and the complexity of the case.
On average, it takes between 1.5 to 3 hours and is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. There are two main techniques used in rhinoplasty: closed and open. In closed rhinoplasty, incisions are made inside the nostrils, which limits the surgeon's ability to make significant changes. On the other hand, open rhinoplasty involves making an incision in the tissue between the nostrils and inside the nostrils. While this technique may leave a small scar, it allows for better visibility and precision during the surgery. One of the most crucial factors in achieving successful results from a rhinoplasty is choosing a skilled and experienced surgeon.
The nose is a prominent facial feature, and any changes made to it can significantly impact a person's appearance. Therefore, it is essential to select a surgeon who has experience in this type of surgery and has a keen sense of facial aesthetics. During a closed rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes two incisions inside the nose, through which all the necessary alterations are made. However, in some cases, injectable hyaluronic acid fillers can be used to alter the shape and size of the nose without invasive surgery. This technique allows the surgeon to uncover the nasal skin and see any asymmetry in the nose's anatomy, making it easier to make precise changes to the bone and cartilage. If additional cartilage is needed to increase the size of the nose, it is often taken from the patient's nasal septum.
In some cases, a 3D model of the nose can be printed before surgery, allowing both the surgeon and patient to visualize the expected results. After a rhinoplasty, swelling is expected, and it may come and go for up to a year after the surgery. It is also common for swelling to be more noticeable in the morning. As mentioned earlier, our bodies go through changes as we age, and this can also affect the appearance of our nose. Therefore, it takes experience and skill to achieve a functional and natural-looking result from a rhinoplasty.The goals of a rhinoplasty can vary from patient to patient.
Some may want to improve their breathing, while others may want to enhance their appearance. Depending on the patient's goals, a rhinoplasty may include removing a nasal hump, reshaping or remodeling the tip of the nose, altering the size or shape of the nostrils, or increasing or decreasing the overall size and projection of the nose. As a plastic surgeon with specialized experience in rhinoplasty procedures, including ethnic and revision rhinoplasties, I have seen firsthand how this surgery can improve a person's self-confidence and overall quality of life. While the results of a rhinoplasty are permanent, it is essential to have realistic expectations and understand that our bodies will continue to change over time. In conclusion, a rhinoplasty is a permanent body modification procedure, and the results will last a lifetime. However, it is crucial to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon and have realistic expectations about the potential need for a second surgery in the future.
With proper care and maintenance, a rhinoplasty can provide long-lasting improvements to both the appearance and function of the nose.
