Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can enhance your appearance (cosmetic rhinoplasty), help you breathe better (functional rhinoplasty) or both. We can also revise a procedure you had done somewhere else if you’re unhappy with the results.

Cosmetic rhinoplasty

Cosmetic rhinoplasty changes the appearance of your nose. It can:

• Adjust the shape of your nose to create symmetry or balance.
• Change your nose’s tip if it’s enlarged, bulbous, droopy, upturned or hooked.
• Get rid of bumps or dips on the bridge of your nose.
• Make your nose smaller or bigger.
• Reshape your nostrils or adjust their size or position.

Functional rhinoplasty

Difficulty breathing. Sleepless nights. Not being able to join in on activities you love. Sometimes nasal problems can make all of those things part of your life. If you’ve tried medical treatments and nothing has worked, rhinoplasty might be an option for you. 

Functional rhinoplasty can return your nose to its original appearance and restore your breathing if you have:

• Breathing problems caused by or made worse by allergies.
• Deviated septum.
• Injury, like a broken nose or facial fractures.
• Nasal birth defect.
• Sleep apnea.
• Surgery to remove cancer.

Rhinoplasty Consultation at Cleveland Clinic

If you’re thinking about changing your nose, the first thing you’ll do is meet with one of our expert surgeons for a consultation. At this appointment, we’ll:

• Talk to you about your goals — whether it’s how you look, breathe or both.
• Do a physical exam, focusing on your nose and face.
• Take pictures of your face and nose from several angles. Then, using special software, we’ll show you a series of small changes and possible outcomes.
• Review your medical history, including any previous surgeries and current health conditions, allergies or medications.
• Recommend a surgical plan based on your overall health, existing anatomy and personal goals.

Rhinoplasty is a big decision. We encourage you to ask questions at your consultation. Then, take as much time as you need to talk to your loved ones and consider your options. You can come back anytime to ask more questions. We want you to feel comfortable and confident about your decision.

Every rhinoplasty is unique — and personal. Our surgeons are here to guide you every step of the way as you make decisions, plan for surgery and recover. They will use sophisticated 2D and 3D software to demonstrate on your own face the possible outcomes. This can help you when you’re thinking about your goals for this procedure.

Planning for your rhinoplasty

If you decide to have rhinoplasty, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know. For example, we may switch the medications you’re taking or some of the products you’re using. And we’ll help you prep for your recovery.

Before your procedure, we’ll make sure that you’re healthy enough for surgery with a physical exam and blood tests. One of our highly skilled anesthesiologists will meet with you and decide which anesthesia is safest and most effective for you. If needed, we’ll use nasal endoscopy to look inside your nasal cavity. This helps us plan for your surgery.

Rhinoplasty surgery

On the day of your procedure, the surgical team will:

• Put you to sleep with anesthesia, so you don’t feel any pain during surgery.
• Make one or more cuts (incisions).
• Use special tools to reshape cartilage and bone, following your pre-surgery plan.
• Adjust the plan as needed if your cartilage and bone aren’t structured the way we expected.
• Close all incisions and bandage where needed.
• Bring you to a recovery room, where you’ll wake up from the anesthesia.

Rhinoplasty recovery

Most of the time, you’ll go home the same day you have surgery. Our team will give you detailed instructions about changing your bandages and how to manage pain. We’ll also explain ways to prevent infection, bleeding and scarring. And we’re always available if you have questions or concerns — even after you head home.

Shortly after surgery, you’ll have a check-up with your surgeon to make sure you’re healing well. How long it takes to recover from rhinoplasty varies from person to person, but here’s what we tell people they can typically expect:

• Week 1: Plan to miss work, school and other commitments. Your nose and surrounding areas will be swollen and sore. After a week or two, you may return to social events without having to worry about other people noticing that you’re swollen.
• Weeks 2 to 4: You can return to social activities if you choose. Bruising will gradually go away in the first two weeks. About 75% of the swelling will be gone at the end of this time, and you will be able to return to all of your normal activities.
• 12 to 18 months after surgery: The last of the swelling will slowly resolve, and you’ll see your final result.

Taking the Next Step

Rhinoplasty can change your look and your life. You might be excited, nervous, scared or all of those things combined. Our providers take the time to talk you through the uncertainties and answer all of your questions. We want to help you find the best option so you can look and feel your absolute best.