Given that the nose is one of the most noticeable features of the face, it’s no surprise that people are often worried about the way it looks. A surgery called rhinoplasty, colloquially referred to as a nose job, is available to let people restructure their nose, and it can also be used to fix respiratory problems. People who have had broken noses, or just people displeased with the look of their nose in general can turn to rhinoplasty to get a nose that fits their face perfectly.

What Happens During a Rhinoplasty?

Compared to some advanced cosmetic surgeries, rhinoplasty is a relatively basic procedure. After applying general or local anesthesia depending on the situation, the doctor usually makes an incision in the nostrils. This allows manipulation of the cartilage that controls the nose’s structure, so the doctor can shape it, giving it a better look. In some cases, the incision will need to be made in the base of the nose, but otherwise the process is the same.

Recovery After Your Nose Surgery

The recuperation period for a rhinoplasty ranges between two and three weeks. After the third week, essentially all signs that you had work done are gone, although it will still be several months before the nose is totally set in place. Your doctor will recommend avoiding strenuous activities for the duration of the recovery period. The bruising and swelling that accompanies the surgery will most likely subside in a couple of days, but it may last for the full three weeks.

Rhinoplasty Cost

Rhinoplasties have a wide range of prices, anywhere from $3,000 to $8,000. Depending on the difficulty of the work to be done, and the surgeon’s qualifications, the cost could go up or down. The only way to obtain a truly accurate cost assessment is to consult your surgeon and have him draw up an appropriate surgical plan.

Risks of a Nose Job Surgery

With any surgery there are certain risks that are to be expected. Infections, as well as possible allergy to the anesthesia used are both common problems that can occur with any surgery, including nose surgery. In some cases, recipients of a nose job can have nosebleeds that last as long as four weeks after the surgery. Other patients develop sinusitis or a loss of sense of smell. A final concern is simply that the surgeon doesn’t perform the procedure optimally, leaving you with an asymmetrical or otherwise unsatisfactory nose.