Rhinoplasty, also known as septorhinoplasty, is a surgical procedure designed to improve the shape, symmetry, and function of the nose. It can address cosmetic concerns, correct breathing issues, or both. Because it involves balancing aesthetics with nasal structure, rhinoplasty is one of the most complex facial procedures, requiring exceptional surgical precision and expertise.
At Northwestern Memorial Hospital in Chicago, Dr. Sidle performs both primary and revision rhinoplasty procedures, with a focus on achieving natural-looking results and enhancing nasal function. His double board certification in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and Otolaryngology–Head and Neck Surgery, combined with extensive experience in ethnic rhinoplasty, allows him to tailor each procedure to the patient’s individual features and goals.
Types of Rhinoplasty Procedures
Rhinoplasty techniques are tailored to each patient’s individual concerns and desired outcome. The two primary approaches include:
Open Rhinoplasty:
An incision is made across the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils) to provide full access to the nasal structures. This method enables detailed reshaping, making it particularly suitable for complex cases or revision procedures.
Closed Rhinoplasty:
All incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no visible scars. This technique is suitable for patients requiring moderate correction and offers a shorter recovery period.
Who Is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty can benefit individuals who are unhappy with the size, shape, or overall appearance of their nose, as well as those who experience breathing difficulties due to structural issues. Ideal candidates include patients who:
- Have a nasal hump, wide bridge, or drooping tip
- Suffer from a deviated septum or chronic nasal obstruction
- Have experienced nasal trauma or previous injury
- Desire improved facial balance and proportion
- Are in good general health and have realistic expectations about the results
A consultation with Dr. Sidle helps determine whether rhinoplasty is suitable based on your unique anatomy and goals.
What Will Happen During A septorhinoplasty Procedure?
During septorhinoplasty, incisions are placed just inside the nostril on its the lower edge and sometimes across the skin between the nostrils. The soft tissues of the nose are then carefully separated from the underlying cartilages and bone. Bone and cartilage are appropriately reoriented to give a balanced harmonious appearance to the nose and face while preserving or improving nasal breathing.
What is the average cost of nose surgery?
The average cost of nose surgery, or rhinoplasty, ranges from $3,000 to $10,000. The price can be affected by several factors, including the location of the surgery and the type of anesthesia used.
Why Prefer Dr. Sidle For Rhinoplasty (Nose job) In Chicago?
Experience Matters. As a board certified Facial Plastic Surgeon at Northwestern with expertise in the face and neck, Dr. Sidle can provide you with an individualized plan to achieve your goals of a more youthful face. Call our office for a one-on-one consultation.
What Can I Expect During My Rhinoplasty Consultation?
Dr. Sidle believes in educating, supporting and counseling his patients from before the procedure through the recovery process. During your rhinoplasty consultation, he will discuss in depth your individual needs and any concerns you have. The use of digital photography and a computer-assisted imaging program may allow you to view realistic possible outcomes from rhinoplasty.
More Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) FAQs
The procedures usually last two to four hours, depending on the amount of work required. A light internal dressing may be applied and removed in 1 to 2 days and a small splint is placed on the external nose for one week. After rhinoplasty, some swelling and bruising of the nose and eyelids may occur but typically subsides within a week. The associated discomfort is typically mild, lasts only a few days, and is easily controlled with medication.
In general, the results of a Rhinoplasty procedure are permanent. However, the nose changes over time, and additional Rhinoplasty procedures may be necessary for the patient to obtain the desired appearance.
Your nose job generally causes no pain or discomfort. However, you may experience some bruising, which should improve over the following days. You will not feel any stitches because your nose is numb. Your nose will be swollen for several days, and you will have a cast and splint for 2 – 3 weeks. The cast protects your nose, while the splint keeps the cast from getting wet, which could cause it to slip during healing. At Dr. Sidle’s clinic, patients receive detailed post-operative guidance to help manage swelling and support a smooth recovery.
Yes. A nose job can change your face. A rhinoplasty, or nose job, can improve your nose’s structure and appearance for a more balanced facial appearance.
After your Rhinoplasty, you typically experience swelling and bruising, gradually fading over weeks.
Rhinoplasty is a type of plastic surgery for nose or nose reshaping that typically includes changing the structure of the nose and improving its function and appearance. The cost of rhinoplasty depends on the procedure that you decide to undergo. This can range from minor surgery to major surgery.
Rhinoplasty and a “nose job” are the same procedure. Rhinoplasty is the medical term for surgery to reshape the nose. Some people use the term “nose job” as a more common name for this surgery.
Yes. A nose job is relatively safe and can be performed at any age. However, you should be aware that there are risks associated with any surgical procedure, which are increased for patients over the age of 35.
Nose surgery is typically a permanent procedure. However, a few things can cause the results to fade over time. These include excessive smoking and sun exposure. Additionally, if you experience a significant change in weight following surgery, your nose may not maintain its new shape.
Nose jobs can be done at any age, though most surgeons recommend waiting until the nose has finished growing. For girls, that’s usually around age 16, and for boys, it’s usually around age 18. There may be exceptions to this rule if the patient’s nose is severely deformed or other health concerns need to be considered.
It is typically recommended to avoid touching the nose for at least ten days after surgery. This will help keep the area clean and minimize the chances of infection. However, each surgeon may have post-operative instructions, so follow your doctor’s instructions closely.
It is best to sleep with your head elevated at all times for the first week following surgery. This will help to minimize swelling and bruising. You may also find sleeping on your back or side more comfortable, but avoid positions where you are resting your head on your nose.
Post-Operative Instructions
All post-operative instructions can be found on the Patient Resources page.
Our Results
Click Here to access our Before and After gallery for all procedures.
