Nose Surgery

Nose surgery, also known as rhinoplasty, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgeries in the country. Because your nose is such a prominent feature on your face, it can have a strong impact on your self-image. Surgery can improve your nose’s appearance by changing its size, shape or angle and bringing it into better proportion with the rest of your face.

More specifically, surgery can:

  • Reshape the nasal tip, which may be too large, drooping or upturned
  • Improve the look of large, wide or upturned nostrils
  • Change the profile of the nose, which might have bumps or depressions on the bridge
  • Help relieve breathing problems caused by structural problems of the nose
  • Correct a birth defect or injury to the nose

Gallery photos

If you decide to have nose surgery, we may also recommend other facial surgeries. For some people, this helps achieve better proportion and balance in their face after surgery.

What happens during the procedure?

Nose surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, and you’ll be able to return home the same day. We typically use a deep sedative anesthesia to ensure you are as comfortable as possible during surgery.

There are several types of nose surgery, including open and closed surgeries. Each accomplishes different goals and involves varying levels of complexity. Most procedures last an hour or two, although more complex ones may run longer. In a closed procedure, incisions are made inside the nose. In an open procedure, they are made across the narrow line of tissue between the nostrils (the columella). Dr. Kyllo then gently raises the soft tissues covering the nose, allowing him access to reshape the structure of the nose.

After surgery, a splint is placed on the outside of your nose to support its new shape during healing. The splint, stitches and any other dressings are usually removed one week after your procedure. During this time, we recommend you take time off work and limit any strenuous activity for another week or two.

With nose surgery, the healing process happens slowly and gradually. It may take up to a year to see the complete results of your surgery.

Best candidates for nose surgery

One of the most important factors when considering nose surgery is age. The nose needs to be fully developed – which usually occurs during the teenage years – before undertaking this surgery. For girls, complete development typically happens by age 15 or 16, and for boys, by age 17 or 18. If surgery is done prior to this time, the nose may continue to grow. This can change the results of surgery and possibly lead to complications.

Consultation at our clinic

We invite you to come meet with us in person to discuss your surgery goals, see patient before-and- after photos, and learn more about our practice and staff. Please contact us for an appointment or for additional information at 206-343-3118.