Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is commonly known as a nose job. It has been a much talked about procedure especially in the celebrity circuit. Quite a few celebrities are known to have a rhinoplasty done to alter their noses, the most notable among them being Michael Jackson. It is also rumored that Marilyn Monroe went under the plastic surgeon’s knife before her foray into Hollywood.
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhino comes from the Latin word for nose and plassein means shaping. Put together, the term rhinoplasty means putting together the nose, what we commonly refer to as a nose reshaping surgery or a nose job. This is a cosmetic plastic surgery in most cases where the shape and size of the nose is esthetically improved. However, the surgery can also be performed for various other non-esthetic reasons. Some people who are born with nasal birth defects may opt for a rhinoplasty and similarly, people who have met with accidents that have caused injuries and traumas to their noses may also opt for this cosmetic surgery. People who have respiratory disorders may also opt for this cosmetic procedure. A plastic surgeon with special expertise in working with facial improvement usually works for a nose job.
What are the Prerequisites for a Successful Rhinoplasty?
The main procedure of a rhinoplasty can be divided into two broad categories. The first is the one in which the nose is bigger than needed and has to be shaped into a more appealing size. The second is where the nose is smaller and special surgical procedures are needed to graft skin onto the nose so that it can get a better shape. In either of the two procedures, it is important to conduct a lot of investigation on the existing shape of the nose.
One of the most important prerequisites for a successful nose job is good communication between the patient and the cosmetic surgeon. It is the duty of the plastic surgeon to apprise the patient of the various options that are possible. Nowadays, with the help of software applications, it is possible to ‘show’ the patient what their nose will look like after the surgery. At the same time, it is the responsibility of the patient to speak with the surgeon in no minced terms about what they want. Only when the expression is clear can the surgeon shape the kind of nose that the patient wants.
The procedure begins by making an incision in the lower nasal septum and lifting the fold of skin to expose the cartilage underneath. This procedure is employed if the nose is to be reduced in size. Once the cartilage is exposed, some unneeded part of it can be removed so that the nose can be brought to the desired shape and size. This can take a while, depending on the expertise of the plastic surgeon. After the procedure is completed, the flap is replaced, the incision is sealed back again and a splint is put on the nose so that it can retain its shape.
Important Considerations for Rhinoplasty
It is important to remember that rhinoplasty is a very delicate procedure that actually requires a fair value of artistic talent on part of the surgeon. It is very necessary to ask for information and find an experienced cosmetic surgeon to do the job. You should also consider the approximate rhinoplasty cost since this procedure may not be covered by your insurance.
![]() | ![]() | ![]() |



