Nose Surgery

Rhinoplasty

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Nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) and improvement of breathing (functional rhinoplasty)

The nose is perhaps the most noticeable part of the face, due to its central location. As a result, minor deformities and irregularities of the nose are very difficult to hide or camouflage.

Ideally, nasal proportions should be in harmony with the rest of the face and body features. A long thin nose that looks attractive on a tall, thin person with a long face may look out of place on a short stocky person with wide face.

Rhinoplasty is the art of enhancing the shape of the nose; it may also improve breathing.

Rhinoplasty can be done either with an open or closed surgical approach, depending on the degree of nasal deformity and the needed corrections.

In a closed rhinoplasty, all the incisions needed to reshape the nose are made from inside the nose. In open rhinoplasty a small incision is made at the base of the nose between the nostrils (at the columella, the area of the nose between the nostrils). This columellar incision is usually unnoticeable and typically heals very well.

Functional rhinoplasty is done to improve breathing in individuals who have had prior nose surgery or experienced nasal trauma/a broken nose. This procedure may be done to improve the nasal airway as well as the appearance of the nose. Insurance may cover portions of nose surgery relating to breathing issues.