What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure which serves to reconstruct or reshape the nose. It is also known as a ‘nose job’. It can be done either for cosmetic purposes or to fix a functional impairment such as breathing problems.

How much does rhinoplasty cost?

The average cost for rhinoplasty procedure is about $5,400 on average. However, that is the average cost for the procedure alone, also known as the surgeon’s fee, excluding additional fees such as for anesthesia and surgical facility fees. It is the surgeon’s fee that tends to vary the most.

Anesthesia and facility fees are generally both lower than $1,000 each. However, depending on the location and the specifics of the case, they can be as high as $2,000 for anesthesia and $3,000 for the facility.

In general, the total cost for rhinoplasty ranges from $3,000 to as much as $15,000.

Do I need a rhinoplasty?

If you need a rhinoplasty for medical or functional reasons, you will likely be referred by a doctor to a plastic surgeon who can do that for you. In cases like this, rhinoplasty will greatly improve the quality of life.

For cosmetic rhinoplasty, if you simply find that you are significantly unhappy with the shape of your nose, then you are a good candidate. If you don’t like nasal features such as the size or angle of the tip of your nose, or the shape of the bridge, then cosmetic rhinoplasty is suitable.

This video will tell you a bit more about what to expect from the procedure. It will help you determine whether you need this procedure or not.

What age can I get a rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is best performed after nasal growth has been completed. This is because the results may change if the procedure is done before then. By the age of 15 or 16, nasal growth should be completed in females. Nasal growth completes about a year later in males.

How long does rhinoplasty take?

Depending on the number of changes needed, rhinoplasty can take as long as three or four hours. However, with minimal changes, it can be completed in about an hour.

Does insurance cover rhinoplasty?

Insurance will not cover the cost of rhinoplasty if it is done purely for cosmetic purposes. This is the case with any procedure that is not required for health purposes. If there is a health benefit provided by rhinoplasty, such as clearing up an obstructed airway, it will likely be covered by an insurance plan to some extent.

What training is important for a rhinoplasty surgeon?

There are no certifications specific to rhinoplasty, but there are general plastic surgery certifications that include this.

A rhinoplasty surgeon should be a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS). This guarantees that the surgeon is board certified in the United States or Canada, with appropriate training behind it.

Alternatively, a certification by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS) may be preferable, as there is specialization in facial cosmetic procedures.

How do I find a great rhinoplasty surgeon?

It can be difficult to figure out how to choose among several rhinoplasty surgeons. While cost should be a consideration, it should not be the primary one, as high costs do not always guarantee the best results.

A direct referral from your doctor or someone who has had rhinoplasty done can serve as a reliable means of finding an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon. As earlier stated, you will want a surgeon who is board-certified and has a lot of experience doing rhinoplasties.

Book an appointment with the surgeon’s office so you can talk to them personally. You can ask any questions, allay any fears you have, and just generally gain an opinion of the surgeon and their skill. You may also request for pictures of the outcome of rhinoplasties that they have done.

Where can I see before and after photos of rhinoplasty results?

If you have selected a rhinoplasty surgeon, check their website. There is very likely to be a gallery with patients who have given their consent for their before and after photos to be posted. This will allow you to see the impact of the procedure on actual people by that specific surgeon. This will really help in the decision-making process.

How long does it take to heal/recover from rhinoplasty surgery?

About a week after the surgery is done, most people will feel in good health. After two or four weeks, most people will be back to most of their daily activities.

The residual swelling will be minor after a few months, though will need a few more months to completely disappear. By the time a full year has gone by, the nose will have fully settled into its permanent state.

Should I get rhinoplasty in another country?

It is not recommended to go for rhinoplasty in another country solely based on saving money. An inexpensive rhinoplasty isn’t guaranteed to be bad, but it comes with a lot of risks. On the other hand, if you’re getting rhinoplasty on account of getting the very best results, then it may be worth it. However, it may be best to consider all your options in your home country before deciding on this.