How is rhinoplasty performed?
Rhinoplasty, by definition, is literally shaping the nose. See How is Rhinoplasty Performed? for details.

How long does the surgery take?
The average surgery takes 45 minutes to one hour.

How old do I have to be to consider rhinoplasty?
Young patients must reach full growth, usually at age 15 or 16. Exceptions can be made when breathing is severely impaired.

How can I tell what my post-operative nose will look like?
Before surgery, we draw over the photo to show how the new nose will look, revising as desired until it looks like what you want. While this technique does not guarantee a good result, it is the best way to ensure that we have the same result in mind.

Another option is morphing technology, which allows us to show patients estimated results. This new technology allows us to take high-resolution digital patient photos, and then "reshape" or morph digitally into the desired post-operative results.

What are some common nose issues treated by rhinoplasty?
People have rhinoplasty to reduce the size of the nose or nose tip, to lift the nose tip or the area between the nostrils, to remove a bump, to make the nose narrower in certain areas, to straighten a crooked nose, or to fix a "ski jump" nose, among other reasons. For explanations and pictures, see Why do People Have Rhinoplasty?.

Can other non-cosmetic nasal issues be addressed during the rhinoplasty surgery?
Yes, often additional nasal issues are corrected at the same time the nose is reshaped, and then part or all of the costs are covered by insurance.

Will my health insurance cover rhinoplasty?
Insurance does not typically cover surgery that is purely for cosmetic reasons. However, surgery to correct or improve nasal function, or for major deformity or injury, may be paid for in whole or in part.

Should I get rhinoplasty?
See our Should I Have Rhinoplasty? page for more information.

How do I know which surgeon to go to?
See our How Do I Choose a Surgeon? page for more information.

How important is the choice of surgeon?
Your choice of a qualified facial plastic surgeon is of paramount importance. While there is little risk for the patient, it demands a high degree of surgical skill for two very important reasons:

• The nose is easily the most prominent feature on the human face. Regardless of which direction we are viewed from – above, below, head-on, or profile – the nose is always the center of attention. So any change will affect the appearance of the entire face.

• The operative technique is extremely demanding and is difficult to do well. Inside, the nose is supported by a delicate framework of small bones and resilient cartilage. Even a tiny miscalculation on the part of the surgeon can lead to unsatisfactory results.

I just had rhinoplasty—what do I do next?

See our What Happens After the Surgery? page for more information.

Can I bathe/shower after surgery?
With assistance, you can bathe in a tub, and you can take a shower on the second post-operative day. Cover the nasal cast to keep it dry. If the cast becomes wet, use a blow dryer to dry it. You can carefully wash your face with a mild soap and a clean washcloth or cotton balls.