Your Top Rhinoplasty Questions Answered

Thinking about a nose job? More than 350 thousand people get cosmetic or functional rhinoplasty every year. Whether you are having issues breathing, have suffered a trauma to your face, or just don’t like the way your nose looks, a rhinoplasty might be perfect for you. 

At DiGeronimo MD Advanced Plastic Surgery in Doral, Florida, Dr. Ernest M. DiGeronimo offers rhinoplasty for both women and men. Here are some of the most common questions our patients ask.

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure focused on reshaping your nose. Dr. DiGeronimo performs this surgery for both men and women.

What’s the difference between rhinoplasty or a nose job?

When most people think about rhinoplasty, they're thinking about a "nose job" — which is when rhinoplasty is used purely cosmetically to improve your appearance. However, Dr. DiGeronimo also does reconstructive work using rhinoplasty techniques. Many patients can benefit from both angles.

What can cosmetic rhinoplasty achieve?

It's common for patients to ask for rhinoplasty to address cosmetic concerns like nose size, shape, and symmetry. You can straighten a crooked nose, shorten a long one, or turn up the end of a droopy nose. 

What problems does functional rhinoplasty address?  

A rhinoplasty can also help with breathing functionality, especially if you have a deviated septum or sinus damage. Alternatively, you might need corrective rhinoplasty to reconstruct your nose because of a birth defect or an injury.   

What are the different surgical techniques used for rhinoplasty?

There are two main types of surgery — open and closed. In open rhinoplasty Dr. DiGeronimo makes a tiny incision across the columella, which is the strip of skin between the nostrils. In closed rhinoplasty, he makes incisions inside the nostrils. 

What is the aftermath of rhinoplasty like?

After your rhinoplasty, you're going to have some swelling and bruising, especially under and around the eyes. Most people only experience mild pain after their surgery. Dr. DiGeronimo will send you home with a prescription for medication and a list of recovery instructions.

How long does it take to completely recover from rhinoplasty?

Most rhinoplasty patients can return to work in just one or two weeks after their surgery. However, the interior of your nose will still be healing. It can take several months for full recovery, and extensive surgery can take up to a year to reveal your nose’s final contours. 

Interested in finding out more? Just contact our office at 305-376-0378 or request an appointment online.