Your nose plays a central role in facial harmony and balance. Rhinoplasty, commonly called a "nose job," is a highly customized surgical procedure designed to reshape the nose and enhance both structure and form. Whether you're concerned about a prominent bump, a wide tip, or asymmetry, rhinoplasty can help you achieve a nose that complements your unique facial features.

What Rhinoplasty Can Correct

Rhinoplasty is a versatile procedure that can address many aesthetic and functional concerns:

  • Reducing or reshaping a nasal hump (dorsal hump)
  • Refining a bulbous or drooping nasal tip
  • Narrowing wide nostrils
  • Correcting asymmetry
  • Straightening a crooked bridge
  • Adjusting overall nose size (reduction or augmentation)
  • Correcting breathing problems from structural issues

The Consultation Process

During your consultation, Dr. Howley will carefully evaluate your nasal anatomy, skin thickness, and facial proportions. He'll discuss your goals and concerns, and may use imaging to help you visualize potential results. This collaborative approach ensures your expectations align with what can be achieved surgically.

Surgical Techniques

Open Rhinoplasty

For more complex cases, a small incision is made across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils). This provides excellent visibility for precise reshaping.

Closed Rhinoplasty

All incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scars. This technique is ideal for patients requiring less extensive modification.

Recovery

A splint is worn on the nose for about a week. Most swelling and bruising resolve within 2-3 weeks, allowing you to return to social activities. While your nose will look great within a few months, subtle refinement continues for up to a year as swelling fully subsides and tissues settle.

Natural-Looking Results

Dr. Howley's approach to rhinoplasty focuses on creating results that look natural and harmonious with your other facial features. The goal is a nose that fits your face beautifully—not one that looks "done" or artificial.

Rhinoplasty FAQ

At what age can I have rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can be performed once the nose has finished growing, typically around age 15-16 for girls and 16-17 for boys. There is no upper age limit as long as you're in good health.

Will rhinoplasty help me breathe better?

If breathing issues are caused by structural problems like a deviated septum, rhinoplasty can improve function along with appearance. Dr. Howley can address both cosmetic and functional concerns in a single procedure.

How long until I see my final results?

While you'll see improvement immediately after splint removal, swelling takes time to fully resolve. Most swelling subsides within a few months, but subtle refinement continues for up to a year, especially in the nasal tip.

Will I have visible scars?

With closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are inside the nose. With open rhinoplasty, there's a small incision on the columella that typically heals to be nearly invisible within a few months.

Ready to Learn More?

Schedule a consultation to discuss rhinoplasty with Dr. Howley.

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