What is a rhinoplasty?
One of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the world, a rhinoplasty (often referred to as a nose job or nose 
surgery) is a surgical procedure that reshapes and restructures the nose. While often done for cosmetic or aesthetic purposes, they are also widely done for medical reasons in order to reconstruct or correct deformities. And many patients who seek nose surgeries for medical reasons also choose to have aesthetic changes made at the same time. A deviated septum, for example, is a common nose correction performed that can improve your breathing, your appearance, and your quality of life all at once.
There are typically two techniques used to perform nose jobs: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. Open (or external) external rhinoplasty, is done via a small incision in the area between your nostrils, called the columella. Because it gives the surgeon better access to the underlying structure of your nose, it can be more accurate for more complicated rhinoplasty surgeries like revision nose jobs (also known as revision rhinoplasty), profound nose deformities, or for more extensive work on your nasal tip due to the clear view of the bones and cartilage that make up your nose. While it can leave a very small scar, Dr. Barrett has a carefully curated postoperative scar regimen to ensure the only reminder of your procedure are your desired results.
Closed (or endonasal) rhinoplasty is done via the nostrils. Because it’s done internally, there are no incisions made on the outside of your nose and therefore less invasive with no visible scarring. A closed nose job is ideal for simple changes, like hump removal and/or more minor work on the tip of your nose, as well as for internal breathing corrections.
How long does a nose job take to heal?
While every patient is different, when it comes to your nose job recovery, you can expect swelling, bruising, stuffiness
and a general dull ache in your head and nose after rhinoplasty surgery. You’ll typically start to feel better after about two days, and most will be able to return to work a week after your nose job. Swelling is the biggest impediment to seeing your new nose after rhinoplasty, and while you’ll see an improvement in swelling every day, it can take up to a year for all your nose job swelling to go down and to see your final results.
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