Rhinoplasty
What Is a Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to reshape or resize the nose and improve its appearance and/or functionality. Examples of cosmetic issues include oversized nostrils, a nasal hump, a wide or narrow nasal bridge, a crooked nose, and a drooping or rounded nasal tip. Candidates must have completed facial growth (ages 14-16) before considering a rhinoplasty procedure.
Benefits of Nose Lift Surgery
Rhinoplasty can refine nasal shape, improve facial symmetry, and correct breathing problems. It offers long-lasting results that enhance both appearance and function. Many patients appreciate how subtle adjustments can bring greater balance to their overall look.
Ideal Candidates for Nose Lift Surgery
You may be a good candidate if you’re in good overall health and wish to change the size, contour, or angle of your nose. Many patients also seek rhinoplasty to address a bump on the bridge, a drooping tip, or asymmetry. Those who have experienced nasal trauma or breathing difficulties can also benefit from this nose enhancement surgery.
What to Expect Before and During Your Rhinoplasty Surgery
Your rhinoplasty consultation process
Dr. Bartlett is one of Boston’s top experts in primary, revision, and reconstructive rhinoplasty and can improve the shape, size, or angle of your nose. Because rhinoplasty is an intricate procedure that requires sculpting of the nose, it is important to choose a plastic surgeon who possesses both surgical skill and artistic vision. As a craniofacial expert, Dr. Richard Bartlett has a unique appreciation of how anatomy relates to form and beauty.
If you are considering rhinoplasty, the first step is a consultation with Dr. Bartlett. He will perform a medical evaluation and listen carefully to understand your goals. He will answer questions about the benefits and risks of surgery, describe the treatment process, and may discuss alternative treatment options. Dr Bartlett will discuss whether an “open” or “closed” approach would be best.
Dr. Bartlett will create and personalize your surgical plan. Photographs are taken to analyze your nose and produce a computer simulation of the outcome. The simulation is reviewed during a second in-office visit or virtual meeting.
At our practice, Dr. Bartlett and his staff will give you written instructions to prepare for your procedure. You will be asked to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home after the surgery and to assist with your initial recovery. You may also be asked to stop or change your current medications as part of the preparation. This is because certain medications may increase bleeding and must be avoided.
What happens during the surgery
Rhinoplasty is performed by making incisions inside the nose and at the base of the nose. Cartilage is sculpted, and the nasal bones are shaved and repositioned. A nasal splint is applied to the outside of the nose. Typically, an internal nasal splint is not needed.
Anesthesia
General anesthesia will be used for a rhinoplasty procedure.
Surgical length
A nose job usually lasts 1.5-3 hours. The exact duration of surgery will depend on the treatment plan, the techniques used, and whether other procedures are performed.
Surgery setting
Rhinoplasty surgeries are performed in our AAAASF-Certified office operating room and within a Boston-based hospital setting.
Rhinoplasty Surgery Recovery Timeline and Care
A nasal splint is placed on the outside of the nose and remains in place for one week. Patients are instructed to sleep with their head elevated on pillows to prevent pressure on the heart. Iced compresses are used to control swelling. Internal nasal splinting and packing are not typically used.
Pain is mild, but swelling and bruising can be significant and may last for up to two weeks or longer. Most people look “normal” within three weeks. Time off from work or school varies, but most patients take 1-2 weeks off, depending on how visible they are to coworkers and clients.
Nose blowing is prohibited for three weeks, and stuffiness persists during that time. Light exercise is permitted after 2-3 weeks, but more serious exercise cannot be resumed until 4-6 weeks. Final results are evaluated one year after surgery.
To see real patient outcomes, you can view rhinoplasty before-and-after photos.
Patients interested in overall facial rejuvenation may also consider a facelift to address sagging skin or volume loss for a more balanced result.
For more insights into how nasal surgery enhances facial balance, read our blog on nose job for facial balance and proportion.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
The cost of a rhinoplasty depends on factors such as the time required for the surgery, the type of anesthesia used, and the techniques performed.
The front desk administrator can provide an estimate of the cost over the phone. After your consultation with Dr. Bartlett, a specific, detailed quote will be provided.
Why Patients Trust Our Rhinoplasty Surgeon
At our practice, patients in Brookline and Boston, MA, receive care from a board-certified surgeon with years of specialized experience in cosmetic nose surgery. Dr. Bartlett’s approach combines surgical skill and artistry to achieve results that look natural and balanced.
You can learn more about his background here and explore patient reviews from those who have undergone rhinoplasty and other facial procedures.
“My only regret about my surgery is not doing it sooner. Dr.Bartlett seems very conservative in his approach and prior to surgery I was a little nervous that I would come out with such minimal change in my nose appearance that all the money would not be worth it. This was not the case. My results were so natural looking you would never think I had a “nose job”. I could not be happier with how I look. I’d say what sets Dr. Bartlett apart from other surgeons is he uses a conservative approach so that it’s not obvious you just had surgery and that the final result still looks like YOU. I think that’s every clients dream. Best thing about this experience was how easy and pain free it all was. Honestly I could not believe it. This is why I say my only regret is not doing it sooner. My only other surgery was removal of my wisdom teeth, and in comparison the rhinoplasty was a walk in the park. The day after my surgery I was walking around Boston and went to the movies with my mom.”
Rhinoplasty Frequently Asked Questions
How long does rhinoplasty take?
A typical rhinoplasty procedure takes approximately two to three hours, depending on the individual's specific needs. More complex cases may take longer if additional structural adjustments are required.
Will there be visible scars after surgery?
In most cases, incisions are made inside the nostrils, resulting in no visible scars. When an external incision is needed, it’s made in a discreet area that usually heals well.
Is rhinoplasty painful?
Discomfort is usually mild and manageable with the use of prescribed medication. Most patients describe the sensation as pressure rather than sharp pain.
When can I return to work or normal activities?
You can usually resume light activities within a week. Strenuous exercise should be avoided for several weeks to allow proper healing.
Can rhinoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes, rhinoplasty is often performed alongside facial procedures such as facial implants and fat transfers or a neck lift. Combining treatments can create balanced, natural-looking results.
Schedule Your Rhinoplasty Consultation Today
Contact our office to schedule a consultation regarding your rhinoplasty in Boston with Dr. Richard Bartlett. He can let you know if surgery is the best option for you and can provide you with natural results from your procedure. Book your rhinoplasty consultation or contact us to get started today.
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