Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) - Frequently Asked Questions
A rhinoplasty (nose job) can greatly improve the appearance or the function of your nose. If you have ever wondered if rhinoplasty was for you, be sure to read the following frequently asked questions answered below.
What is the difference between an open and closed rhinoplasty?
Open and closed rhinoplasty (nose job) refer to the location of the incision. An open rhinoplasty incision is made on the nose skin between the nostrils. A closed rhinoplasty incision is made inside the nose. Open rhinoplasties are used for major procedures and closed for minor surgeries.
What is a revision rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty, also known as secondary rhinoplasty, corrects results from a previous rhinoplasty. Unsatisfactory outcomes may be due to the initial problem still prevailing or surgical error. A revision rhinoplasty is more complicated than an initial nose surgery. The secondary procedure can be performed as either an open or a closed rhinoplasty.
How long does rhinoplasty surgery take?
Primary rhinoplasty procedures last between one to two hours, while a revision rhinoplasty can take up to eight hours depending on the complexity of the problem.
How long does it take for rhinoplasty results?
Patients undergoing a rhinoplasty have to exercise patience. It takes one year for the final results to be evident. For the first two months, you will experience swelling on a continuous, albeit diminishing, basis. Bruising typically lasts for the two or three weeks after surgery. An estimated 90 percent of the swelling will be gone by three months, with the remaining 10 percent disappearing by 12 months. The residual 10 percent will not be apparent. The bridge of the nose is faster to heal than the nose tip, which often takes the full year to refine and “settle”.
How long do I have to wait after primary rhinoplasty before I can have a revision rhinoplasty?
A plastic surgeon generally recommends that patients wait 12 months after a primary rhinoplasty before undergoing a secondary rhinoplasty. This gives your nose the opportunity to "settle" fully, swelling to disappear and scar tissue to soften.
When can I blow my nose after surgery?
You cannot blow your nose for one week after the surgery. If you have difficulties with congestion, decongestants may be helpful. Some patients may experience an unusually runny nose for some months after surgery.
If you would like to learn more about rhinoplasty or other cosmetic surgery options, such as facelift, breast augmentation and breast implants, liposuction, and tummy tuck, be sure to visit our New Jersey cosmetic surgeon for more information.