Home > FAQ > Frequently Asked Rhinopalsty Questions

Q - What is rhinoplasty?
Nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, is a procedure where the goal is to improve the nose aesthetically by making it more harmonious with the rest of the facial features. A superior rhinoplasty helps to match the nose to the individual facial features and proportions while creating the persons desired look. This is achieved by reducing or increasing the overall size of the nose, removing a hump, or changing the angle between the nose and upper lip. Refinement rhinoplasty uses certain techniques that are able to add definition to the nasal tip or create a straighter, more supported nasal bridge. This procedure may also relieve some breathing problems.

Q - Who is the best candidate for rhinoplasty?
Candidates for rhinoplasty include physically healthy people looking to improve their appearance and, in certain cases, the function of the nose. The expectations should be realistic. Through surgery, a persons looks may not change drastically but their natural beauty can be significantly improved.

Q - Are there any age restrictions for undergoing rhinoplasty?
The recommended age for a rhinoplasty is 14 or 15 for girls and a bit later for boys. This may vary until the young patients nose has completed growing.

Q - What can I expect during a consultation for rhinoplasty?
During your consultation for nose surgery, Dr. Buckingham uses digital imaging software in order to communicate the desired improvements. He will also be able to answer any possible questions that you may have.

Q - Where is the rhinoplasty procedure performed?
The rhinoplasty procedure may be performed in an outpatient surgical center.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty may be performed using a local anesthesia combined with sedation, or general anesthesia.

Q - How is the actual rhinoplasty procedure performed?
The procedure begins by separating the skin of the nose from its supporting network of bone and cartilage. This portion of the nose is sculpted to the patients desired shape and the skin is placed over the new framework of the nose. To finish the procedure, the incisions are then closed. The procedure may be performed through entirely internal incisions (endonasal) or including a small external incision (open approach).

Q - How long does the actual rhinoplasty procedure last?
A nose surgery or rhinoplasty can generally take between one to three hours depending on the individual case.

Q - Where are the incisions made for rhinoplasty?
There are two types of incisions that can be made for rhinoplasty procedure. A closed or endonasal rhinoplasty confines the incisions to the inside of the nose. An open rhinoplasty involves additional small incisions that are made on the underside of the nose between the nostrils. Dr. Buckingham has extensive experience in nasal surgery that allows him to address each individual case from those requiring minimal refinement to those requiring more extensive work. He also performs revision rhinoplasty extensively.

Q - Are there scars after rhinoplasty?
The two different types of incisions made during nasal surgery can result in very fine scarring. In a closed rhinoplasty, the incision if confined to inside of nose and the scarring is not visible. In an open rhinoplasty, the scar is a very fine one on the underside of the nose between the nostrils, allowing it to be well concealed and it will fade with time.

Q - Is the rhinoplasty procedure painful?
There may be some aching in the head and nose after a rhinoplasty procedure. Dr. Buckingham has extensive experience with rhinoplasty and uses special techniques to minimize post-operative discomfort. Pain medication may be prescribed to alleviate any discomfort.

Q - What is the recovery like after rhinoplasty?
After the completion of the nasal surgery, a splint of soft foam and moldable aluminum will be applied to the nose. The splint and dressings are removed within about one week. The face will be slightly puffy, the nose may have a minor ache and you may have a possible dull headache. Some minor bleeding may also occur. Swelling and bruising around the eyes are minor in most cases and resolve within one week. The nose usually looks good within 2-3 weeks and will continue to improve after that. However, some amount of unnoticeable swelling can remain for as long as a year.

Q - How much time will I need to take off from work after undergoing rhinoplasty?
Recovery after rhinoplasty usually lasts one week after this time period most patients can return to work and resume regular social activities.

Q - When can I exercise after the rhinoplasty procedure?
Light exercise can typically be resumed within two weeks after the rhinoplasty surgery. Strenuous exercise can be resumed after three weeks. Any activity that may strike the nose should be strictly avoided for six weeks.

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