Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)

Is your nose out of proportion with the rest of your face? Do you have difficulty breathing because of structural abnormalities in the nose?

Nose surgery helps correct these irregularities, putting your nose in proportion with the rest of your face and improving self confidence. Nose surgery, known as a rhinoplasty, also helps correct impaired breathing due to structural abnormalities in your nose.

Your nose’s shape is largely due to familial traits but an injury or prior surgical procedure also can alter its appearance. A rhinoplasty can change the nose’s size, width at the bridge and/or get rid of visible humps or depressions on the bridge. Nose surgery also corrects nasal tips that are large or drooping, nostrils that are large, wide or upturned, along with enhancing nasal asymmetry and deviation.

View our before and after photos:

Is a rhinoplasty right for me?

Nose surgery is a very individualized procedure…no two people are the same. Perhaps your nose is too big for your face or there are some structural problems that are causing you to have problems breathing. Deciding to undergo nose surgery is a very personal decision and only you can determine if the procedure can help you accomplish your goals.

A rhinoplasty is safe to consider if:

  • Your face is fully developed (usually by age 13 or 14)
  • You’re in good health physically
  • You stop smoking
  • You have realistic goals and expectations

Above all – you should only undergo nose surgery for you, not to satisfy someone else’s desires. Of course, we are more than happy to discuss these goals with you at any time.

How do I prepare for my rhinoplasty?

Once you decide nose surgery will help you accomplish your goals of a more proportioned face, you will first need to meet with a UF Health surgeon at our Gainesville practice. The surgeon will want to discuss your goals, any prior surgeries and any medications you’re currently taking. It’s vital you be completely candid with them during this discussion.

In addition to questions about why you’re interested in having rhinoplasty, surgeons will also measure your face, take photographs, discuss surgical options and explain the likely outcome, along with any risks.

If you decide to go ahead with the rhinoplasty procedure, you will need to stop smoking well before your scheduled appointment and avoid Aspirin, anti-inflammatory and herbal supplements since they increase the risk of bleeding.

Be sure a friend or family member is available to drive you home after the procedure is complete. It’s recommended you have someone spend the night with you to monitor your recovery.

How long will my recovery take and what should I expect in terms of post-op care and maintenance?

It will take some time after the procedure for your new nasal contours to be fully refined but you should plan for at least a 24-48 hour recovery time from the procedure itself. It’s likely you will experience some soreness and swelling for a few days and possibly intermittently for up to a year.

To avoid any post-surgical complications, follow your surgeon’s instructions. They will instruct you on how to care for your nose following your rhinoplasty and detail any medications you should either apply to your nose or take orally.

Find out more on what to expect when you undergo a rhinoplasty procedure at the UF Health Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics Center.

If you experience any shortness of breath or unusual heartbeat after you return home, seek medical attention immediately.

Call 352.265.8402 or contact us today to schedule a consultation.

Learn about more facial surgery options.