Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping, is a commonly performed plastic surgery procedure. It is beneficial for individuals who may feel their nose does not fit their face. Rhinoplasty helps accomplish a more natural and harmonious balance with other facial features. A few of the problems that can be corrected or improved with rhinoplasty include a nose that appears too large for the face, a bump or depression on the bridge or a nose that appears to be too wide. If the nasal tip droops, is enlarged or nostrils are excessively flared, this procedure is usually effective in correcting the defect. The abnormality may have been caused by a previous injury that made the nose crooked, off-center or asymmetrical. It may also be the result of inherited traits that cause airway obstruction due to a deviated septum, the dividing wall within the nose. Rhinoplasty can be performed on men and women of any age, but is not recommended for girls until age fourteen and boys until age fifteen. This insures facial growth is complete. A personal consultation is the first step for any patient considering nose reshaping. During the consultation, your physician will examine the structure of your nose, the quality of your skin, and the relationship of your nose to your other facial features. Be prepared to discuss any previous surgeries you have had, any past and present medical conditions and medications you currently use. He will also outline possible risks and complications. In addition to listening carefully to what he tells you, be sure to raise any questions or concerns that you may have about the safety of the procedure. The technique used will depend on your surgeon’s personal preferences and your desired results. Some plastic surgeons perform “closed rhinoplasty” where all incisions are made inside the nostrils. An “open” procedure may be used where a small incision is made across the strip of tissue separating the nostrils. Through the incision the framework of the nose is sculpted to the desired shape. Rhinoplasty is normally done as an outpatient. Most surgery of this nature takes two to three hours to complete. Plastic splints may be applied and the head is kept elevated for the first twenty-four hours following surgery to minimize swelling. Most patients return to work within 7 to 10 days. Strenuous exercise can be resumed in 2-3 weeks. Exposure to the sun should be limited for approximately 2 months. The surgeons and staff at The Face & Body Center are available to discuss any questions you may have by calling 866-939-4999 or 939-9999 in the Jackson Metro Area.