Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip. It may also correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing problems.

Who's a Candidate?

The best candidates are people who are looking for improvement in the way they look. Age may also be a consideration. Many plastic surgeons prefer not to operate on teenagers until after they've completed their growth spurt.

After Your Surgery

After surgery, particularly during the first 24 hours, your face will feel puffy, your nose will ache and you may have a dull headache. Plan on staying in bed with your head elevated for the first day.

You'll notice that the swelling and bruising around your eyes will increase at first, reaching a peak after two or seven days. You may apply a cold compress to reduce the swelling. Most of the swelling and bruising should disappear within two weeks. Some subtle swelling may remain for months, especially in the tip. The final results of rhinoplasty may not be apparent for a year or more. A little bleeding is common during the first few days following surgery, and you may continue to feel some stuffiness for several weeks. Your surgeon may ask you not to blow your nose for a week or so while the tissues heal.

If you have nasal packing, it will be removed after a few days. All dressings, splints and stitches should be removed within one or two weeks. You can wear contact lenses as soon as you feel like it; however, if you wear glasses, they will have to be taped to your forehead or propped on your cheeks until your nose is completely healed in approximately seven weeks.