Rhinoplasty (Surgery of the Nose) Overview - Recovery - Photos (Before and After) Procedure Overview Back to Top Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape the nose, is performed for both cosmetic and functional reasons. Cosmetic features that can be improved include the size, shape and projection of the nose. Breathing problems resulting from trauma, septal deviation or airway collapse can also be improved. The best candidates for rhinoplasty have specific nasal deformities for which they desire improvement. A hump on the bridge of the nose, wide nasal tip or drooping tip are common examples of these deformities. Drastically changing all aspects of the nose should be avoided where possible as this may cause the patient to no longer look like themselves. The procedure can be performed through small incisions within the nostrils with or without a small incision on the skin of the nose between the nostrils, as necessary. The bone and cartilage of the framework of the nose is reshaped as needed. Occasionally additional cartilage is taken from the septum of the nose or behind the ear to provide additional framework. The procedure can be performed under general anesthesia or under sedation with local anesthesia. Most patients prefer the latter for cost reasons. Recovery Back to Top Rhinoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you will go home after the procedure. You will have a small dressing on the nose and possibly packing inside the nose. Pain medications and antibiotics will be provided. Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes can be significant for the first several days. Ice packs and head elevation will be used for the first two days to improve pain and swelling. Most swelling is resolved by the first six weeks although a small amount will be present for over a year. Packing will be removed in a couple of days, sutures will be removed at 4-7 days and the dressing will be removed at about 2 weeks. To avoid injury, strenuous activities and contact sports should be avoided for several weeks after surgery.