Primary Rhinoplasty

Are You Ready to Have the Nose You Want? Primary rhinoplasty is one of the most popular procedures in the country. It is a first-time “nose job,” performed to reshape or resize the nose to achieve a more attractive facial balance. “Primary” refers to the fact that the patient has never had nose surgery before. Rhinoplasty is a delicate and precise procedure that can dramatically enhance facial appearance.

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We take all the time needed with every procedure to deliver the highest quality results. Each patient is different, and we custom tailor every procedure, every time. Our board-certified facial plastic surgeons craft individualized treatment plans, based on facial bone structure, contours, and the personal aesthetic wishes of the individual.

How Long Will I Need to Stay Home After Primary Rhinoplasty?

You may want to avoid going out in public for approximately two weeks after nose reshaping surgery. The procedure is performed under IV sedation or general anesthesia. Your surgeon will choose one of two possible surgical techniques:

Closed rhinoplasty: All incisions are made inside the nose.
Open rhinoplasty: An incision is made across the columella (tissue that separates the nostrils), and the skin and cartilage are gently raised, allowing the surgeon access to reshape the nasal structures.

Bone or cartilage may be removed to reduce the size of the nose. Cartilage grafts may be added to restructure the nose. A deviated septum can be straightened and projections in the nasal passages can be reduced to improve breathing. Once the underlying structure is reshaped, the surgeon re-drapes the nasal tissues and skin and closes the incisions with sutures.

We Are Here for You During Your Recovery

The initial recovery phase after primary rhinoplasty takes one to two weeks. You can expect swelling and bruising, which should subside in a few weeks. You will need to take time off work and have someone to help you at home. After surgery, you may have a splint and/or packing inside your nose and bandages on the outside to protect and support the nasal structures as they heal. Your doctor will prescribe medications to aid healing, manage your discomfort, and reduce the risk of infection. You will be given specific instructions, including how to care for the surgical site.

Primary Rhinoplasty FAQ

What precautions should I take during my recovery?

The first week after surgery is the key period of your recovery. It is important to treat the surgical site very gently to avoid harming your nose or disrupting healing.

Wear shirts with buttons, not shirts you pull on over your head.
Sleep with your head elevated to minimize swelling.
Eat soft foods and avoid salty foods.
Take baths instead of showers.
Avoid blowing your nose.
Change the gauze on the surgical site as directed by your doctor.

When do I have my first post-op visit?

Your first post-operative appointment with your doctor will be scheduled approximately one week after rhinoplasty in Miami. Your plastic surgeon will remove the dressings, evaluate your nasal structures, assess your recovery progress, and ensure you are healing properly. At this time, your doctor can answer any questions you may have.

How long before I can blow my nose after surgery?

You will not be able to blow your nose immediately after rhinoplasty. Once the packing on the inside of your nose is removed, you can blow it gently.

What are the advantages of open and closed rhinoplasty?

The main advantage of open rhinoplasty is that it allows better access to the interior of the nose. This enables the surgeon to perform advanced techniques with a level of precision that is not possible with closed rhinoplasty.
The advantages of closed rhinoplasty are less swelling, a shorter recovery, and no visible scarring, as all incisions are made inside the nose.

When will I see the final results of my primary rhinoplasty?

Results will be visible when the initial swelling subsides, within a few weeks after nose surgery. However, it may take up to a year for the new shape of your nose to fully refine. You may notice gradual changes in the look of your nose as swelling subsides completely and final results appear.