Common Questions about Rhinoplasty

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic or reconstructive surgery of the nose. It is also known as nose reshaping and often called a nose job. A rhinoplasty can correct many problems of the nose. For a more pleasing symmetrical look, the dorsal hump may be removed. The cartilages of the nose can also be trimmed to create a more refined or pleasing shape. A bulbous or droopy tip as well as a deviated septum may be addressed in the enhancement process. This procedure can refine the nose while bringing harmony and balance to the face.
 

How is the Rhinoplasty procedure performed?

A rhinoplasty can be performed under local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. An incision is made either across the bottom of your nose between nostrils (open technique) or a closed technique in which the incision is made in the mucosal lining of your nostrils. After the procedure the patient is awakened and sent to recovery. After the patient is comfortable, they are released to go home. Someone must be with you to drive you home; you will not be able to drive yourself. Dr. Maggi follows up with all his rhinoplasty patients 24 hours after surgery.
 

What should I expect at my consultation?

At your consultation, you will meet with Dr. Maggi and specific goals will be identified and discussed. Discuss what you want out of your rhinoplasty surgery. Dr. Maggi will review your goals and explain what can be achieved realistically through the art of rhinoplasty. This procedure is a surgery of precision and is an art form in many ways. Modern rhinoplasty techniques allow Dr. Maggi to care for individual needs in each customized surgery.
 

When should I be able to see the results?

Right after surgery, your nose will look swollen and there may be some bruising at least for the first few days. Swelling, particularly at the nasal tip, may persist for several months, depending on the thickness of your skin. Our taping program is very helpful to minimize any swelling. In rare cases, swelling may not totally disappear for 1 to 2 years. Some degree of swelling is more apparent in the morning when you get up, subsiding as the day progresses.

Dr. Maggi regularly performs this surgery in his Austin surgery center and explains, “I tell all my rhinoplasty patients many times before the surgery that this particular procedure requires a lot of patience on the part of the patient. In my experience this is particularly evident in an open rhinoplasty. I feel that most of this is because rhinoplasty is a ‘surgery of millimeters,’ and many early concerns will change as the healing process takes place as the majority of the swelling of the various tissues (skin, cartilage, bone, etc.) subsides. I feel that having my patients ask me or my staff questions or voice any concerns, is a fundamental part of the healing/post-operative process, and I encourage it.”

Dr. Maggi explains that many of his patients come to his office seeking advice about revision surgery from a previously performed rhinoplasty elsewhere. It is best to get it right the first time but it is possible to correct mistakes. Selecting your surgeon carefully is paramount. He encourages patients to schedule a consultation to see photographs of his many satisfied rhinoplasty patients. Find out more information about our other services like a Brow & Eyelid Lift.