Quick Rhinoplasty Facts

Rhinoplasty can bring harmony to your facial features by adjusting the structure or symmetry of your nose.

Benefits of Rhinoplasty

There are many benefits to improving the aesthetic or structural imbalances of your nose. An unflattering nose can be distracting to others or can make you look older than you are, but restoring facial harmony can boost your self-confidence.

A deviated septum results in tissue obstructions that can impact your ability to breathe easily, sleep soundly, and stay healthy. Our New York rhinoplasty can help your nose drain properly, reducing the risk of sinus infections and colds. Removing obstructions can help you breathe easier throughout the day and alleviate symptoms of sleep apnea -- a dangerous sleep disorder.

Improved circulation of oxygen can help you look and feel better. You may notice that you think more clearly and feel energized throughout the day. You will also look well-rested and vibrant after better sleep and increased circulation of oxygen to your skin.

How Does Rhinoplasty Work?

There are two types of rhinoplasty: open and closed. Open rhinoplasty is performed using a small, discreet incision on the underside of your nose in between your nostrils. Incisions are completely concealed within the nose during a closed technique.

Dr. Kwak will then reshape the cartilage and bone in the nose to make the necessary changes to the bridge, tip, and nostrils. Cartilage grafts can be used to add volume where necessary. The septum is also straightened and obstructions are removed. After all changes have been made, the skin is gently re-draped and the incision is closed.

After a Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, so you can return home the same day. Initial recovery is expected to take one to two weeks. The delicate, precise surgical techniques used during the procedure result in virtually undetectable scars. Your nose will look natural and blend in with the rest of your features in perfect harmony. Whether you have trouble breathing due to a deviated septum or simply don’t like the shape of your nose, rhinoplasty with Dr. Kwak can help. Schedule a consultation today for arguably the best rhinoplasty NYC has to offer.

Why Choose Dr. Kwak

It's hard to overstate the importance of choosing the right surgeon for your rhinoplasty. Any surgery can involve risk, but in the case of cosmetic procedures, the risks go beyond the usual medical issues. You are choosing to have this procedure for aesthetic purposes and it’s possible for a surgeon to do a perfectly safe, workmanlike job and still fall far short of your goals. While it can be possible to correct a procedure that failed to meet your expectations, this is not a road you want to travel. Patients seeking a rhinoplasty surgeon in New York can have full confidence that Dr. Edward Kwak can execute their NYC rhinoplasty to the highest standard, providing an ideal combination of technical skill and artistry.

Certification

Dr. Kwak is certified by both the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology. His skill in rhinoplasty procedures has attracted international attention. A lifelong learner and teacher, Dr. Kwak regularly lectures on rhinoplasty techniques, and contributes to books, blogs and articles on the subject. He is a Clinical Assistant Professor at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mt. Sinai in New York. In addition to his work as an educator, Dr. Kwak is a partner with Faces of Honor. This program, which is sponsored by the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, he provides services to injured veterans at no cost. If you have committed to taking this life-changing step, make sure that it brings you all the confidence and joy in life that you envision for your future. In Dr. Kwak, you’ll find the rare combination of compassion, an artist’s attention to detail and the experience necessary to bring your vision to life.

Intro

If you are considering undergoing rhinoplasty in New York City, your choice of plastic surgeons is extremely important. As one of the most complicated and delicate of all facial surgeries, a high level of artistry is necessary in making decisions about how to best alter nose shape, size, and projection. Not all surgeons are equal in natural talent or choose to stay abreast with the latest surgical techniques, so choose carefully – you will live with the outcome for years.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Nose reshaping surgery, or a “nose job” is medically-termed “rhinoplasty.” This procedure addresses a range of nasal issues, from cosmetic to functional. It is a customized surgery, as each patient has unique problems to resolve, including aesthetic issues such as an overly large nose, drooping nose, bulbous nose tip, wide or long nostrils, or a flat nose bridge, among others.

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

View before & after images performed by NYC board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Edward Kwak.

Am I a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

The decision to undergo rhinoplasty in New York is extremely personal. If you feel that the appearance of your nose is affecting your confidence, social life, or success in your profession, you are probably a candidate to undergo surgery to reshape your nose, or improve breathing function, or both. Learn more below in our Table of Candidacy.

Table of Candidacy

Large Nose

When the nose is large, it draws attention away from your other attractive facial features. Reshaping it surgically can bring a more appealing balance to your face overall, along with greater self-confidence socially, personally, and in business dealings.

Large, Bulbous, Droopy Nose Tip

If you feel your nose tip is too heavy, large, or drooping, it can be reshaped surgically for a more refined appearance. Depending upon your unique aesthetic issues, bone and cartilage may need to be altered and reshaped to create a balanced look.

Hump on Nose Bridge, Flat Bridge

Smoothing a large hump or adding volume to a flat nose bridge can create a significant improvement in your facial balance and harmony. Rhinoplasty surgery can trim away or add volume for refined and appealing profile.

Nostril Issues – Large, Long, Wide

Your nostril shape and size can be altered with a rhinoplasty, so your nostrils look more attractive, rather than drawing unwanted attention. Reshaping the nostrils is commonly performed during rhinoplasty or could be a single procedure.

Pinched Nose Tip, Crooked Nose, Etc.

If your nose is asymmetrical, has been broken, crooked, or oddly-shaped, rhinoplasty can alter and repair it, so you feel more confident in your facial appearance. Any functional problems with breathing can be resolved in the same surgery.

What is the cost of Rhinoplasty in NYC?

As rhinoplasty is a custom surgery, based upon the patient’s unique condition, the cost varies, but is typically in the range of $10,000 to $15,000. With rhinoplasty, you get what you pay for, so deal shopping is not advised – you risk requiring a revision rhinoplasty if your nose job is botched. Your goal should be to find the most qualified and experienced surgeon in your area, above all.

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Types of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is performed to resolve a wide range of cosmetic and functional nasal problems; therefore, there are many types of nose surgeries that can be performed for each unique case. As one of the most commonly-performed facial surgeries, it is used to resolve issues such as overly large nose, hump on bridge, flat bridge, bulbous tip, hanging tip, wide nose, asymmetrical nose, and problems with breathing. Learn more about the types of rhinoplasty procedures Dr. Edward Kwak offers and see which is right for you.

Types

Cosmetic

The majority of rhinoplasty surgeries are performed to correct cosmetic problems. This is an elective surgery, customized to alter, repair, or restructure some aspect of the nose appearance to create a more balanced and attractive facial appearance.

Functional

Breathing problems, such as restricted airways due to polyps, a deviated septum, or damage from trauma can be repaired with a custom rhinoplasty to restore breathing function, often combined with cosmetic alterations.

Revision

Sadly, some rhinoplasty procedures are unsuccessful, particularly when performed with older techniques that failed to provide enough inner support, with the nose structure eventually collapsing. Other problems requiring revision surgery include excessive scarring, over-correction, under-correction, or lack of symmetry in final outcome.

Ethnic

An ethnic rhinoplasty is a nose surgery performed to alter a specific ethnic trait, and performed on people from various backgrounds, including African-American, Asian, Middle-Eastern, and others. This surgery requires experience, as each ethnicity has slightly different skin thickness, softness of cartilage, and features that can be significantly enhanced with a custom surgery performed with artistry.

Non-Surgical

Dermal fillers can be injected in a “non-surgical rhinoplasty.” Surprisingly, adding volume can make the nose appear smaller by smoothing a hump, raising nose tip, or resolving a nose that appears pinched at the tip.

Open Vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty involves placing an incision at the base of the small strip of tissue between the nostrils, so the skin can be pulled back and the full structure accessed. This surgical procedure is commonly employed when a patient requires extensive nose reshaping, including alterations to the nose bridge, tip, and to alter the width of the nose. After healing, the tiny incision is almost invisible, appearing as a fine white line, hidden under the nose where it meets the face.

Closed Rhinoplasty

A closed rhinoplasty has a big advantage in that no surgical incisions are made on the outer portion of the nose, so no visible scars are created. The incisions are made within the nostrils, from which the nose corrections are made. This approach may not be effective for those who have more serious cosmetic issues to resolve but is often appropriate for minor nose bridge humps and bumps.

I.K. Rhinoplasty

Dr. Edward Kwak is truly amazing! Currently 16 months post op Rhinoplasty and facelift. About 10 surgeons could not close a hole in my nose and did not want to operate me but only Dr. Kwak could do this. Thank you for saving my life!

J.P. Rhinoplasty

I could not be any happier with my results. Dr. Kwak did an amazing job. He made my nose look natural so no one noticed I had a nose job. Dr. Kwak and his team are so professional and efficient. I was very nervous about having surgery and they held me hand every step of the way. So happy I found him!

M.G. Functional Rhinoplasty

Dr. Edward Kwak is a meticulous surgeon and also a really nice guy! He will take the time with you and is very empathetic and kind. I felt like I "clicked" with him right away, and felt fully confident in choosing him as my surgeon! I can now fully breathe through my nose and it is really cute!

S.P. Rhinoplasty

Dr. Kwak is a very talented surgeon, and he knows what he is doing and talking about. I had a rhinoplasty done by him and I felt nothing, knowing I was in good hands. I am three weeks post op and I absolutely love my nose, and the final results are not even showing yet. I had a really great experience!!

Recovery Time

Most patients who undergo rhinoplasty surgery will need to plan to take two weeks off. The early stages of recovery are the most difficult, mostly due to swelling, which leaves you with a stuffy nose. Once that step is over, most patients report the recovery was easier and less painful than expected.

Immediately After

After rhinoplasty, you will wake up from anesthetic with the nose protected with a splint and bandages. The alterations will not yet be visible.

Day of

You will need to arrange a friend or family member to drive you home and stay with you as support for the first 24 hours. Keep your head elevated, including during sleep, and do not engage in any vigorous actions of any kind, with motions restricted to just gentle, slow walks.

One Week

After a week, most patients are ready to have the splint removed. If you have stitches and your nose is healed sufficiently, they will be removed. Swelling and bruising is common at this stage.

Two Weeks

After two weeks, your new nose is coming into view, although the swelling has not fully disappeared, so your nose will appear bigger than it will when your recovery is complete.

One Month

Most swelling is gone, and the alterations are now becoming more visible, particularly at the nose tip. Alterations to the nose bridge may require a bit longer to heal, although you should feel confident enough to engage in social activities.

Three Months

Your nose is starting to look great, with its final refined look now visible. You are free to exercise, engage in sports, and enjoy life – but care for your nose and always avoid impact!

Six Months

After six months, very minor residual swelling may remain, noticeable only to you, if at all. All the restructuring is now visible, which you can enjoy.

One Year

Your earlier nose appearance may now just be a dim memory, as you have become used to the new look, with your nose now a natural part of your appearance.

Rhinoplasty Revision

If you have had a nose job and are still unhappy with the results, you may be a candidate for revision rhinoplasty.

What are the risks of Rhinoplasty?

The risks of rhinoplasty are reduced when your surgery is performed under the most stringent safety protocols, so choose your surgeon carefully. Complications can include a reaction to anesthesia, infections, and excessive scarring. All risks will be fully discussed with you prior to surgery.

How to choose the right Rhinoplasty surgeon?

There are few facial surgeries that require more delicacy and technique than rhinoplasty, so choosing the right surgeon is of critical importance. Do your homework, visit with several, and carefully review before and after images of real patients, and read patient reviews.

Education

A rhinoplasty should only be performed by a specialist who holds credentials from the American Board of Plastic Surgeons. Surgeons with a specialty in otolaryngology (head and neck specialist) offer a superior level of training and have dedicated several extra years to education and experience.

Experience

As with any profession, experience matters. You don’t want to be a guinea pig and undergo rhinoplasty with surgeon who has just attained credentials. Choose a surgeon with many years of experience in performing rhinoplasty on all types of patients to avoid the risk of problems or complications associated with surgical errors.

Results

The plastic surgeon you choose should be confident, warm, and show genuine interest in you as a person, and be happy to show you an extensive gallery of images of patients before and after the procedure. Read online reviews and ensure you feel that you and your plastic surgeon are in good communication, key to achieving the look you envision.

Certification

Never undergo rhinoplasty from any surgeon who does not have board-certification from the American Board of Plastic Surgery. An MD can perform some cosmetic surgeries, but has a much lower level of education, and this certification is only the first step for a board-certified specialist in plastic and reconstructive surgery. For rhinoplasty, it is a benefit to have the surgery performed by an experienced plastic surgeon with additional certification as a specialist in head and neck surgery, otolaryngology.

Why choose Dr. Kwak?

Dr. Edward Kwak is among New York’s finest nose surgeons and has an impressive background. As a double board-certified plastic surgeon, much awarded throughout his career, he serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor of Head and Neck Surgery at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, educating surgeons on advanced cosmetic surgeries at the New York Eye and Ear Infirmary. In Manhattan, he is recognized as among the most talented nose surgeons practicing in the area, respected by his peers and patients alike.

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What to Expect

Preparing for Surgery

When planning to undergo rhinoplasty, you may be asked to stop taking certain medications and blood thinning supplements, get extra sleep, avoid stress, and eat a healthy diet, avoiding alcoholic beverages, smoking, recreational drugs of any type, and drinking plenty of water to prepare your body for a safe surgery.

Anesthesia

The type of anesthesia will be determined based upon patient need but may be general anesthesia or local plus intravenous sedation. As the surgery requires several hours to complete, it is necessary that you are completely “under,” so the plastic surgeon can focus on restructuring your nose without interruptions.

During

Rhinoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis. You will arrive early in the day, wearing loose clothing, including a top with buttons or zipper up the front. During rhinoplasty, you will be anesthetized, so very little of the actual procedure can be recalled, other than the application of anesthesia, after which you will drift off.

After

After your rhinoplasty is complete, your restructured nose will be protected with a medical splint and bandages. Once you are alert, you are free to return home under the care of another person – no driving is allowed. The rest of the day, most patients simply rest with the head elevated. Contact us today and schedule a free consultation for arguably the best Rhinoplasty NYC has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q?: Will I Be In Severe Pain After a Nose Job?

Most patients are pleased that recovery turns out to be less painful than they expected, but may feel pressure, headache, and tenderness. The most unpleasant after effect is that the nose swelling restricts breathing and the nose feels “stuffy.”

Q?: Can I Blow My Nose After a Rhinoplasty?

Never blow your nose after a rhinoplasty, as this can damage the delicate work performed by your plastic surgeon, and result in complications. It is normal to experience some discharge, which can be addressed with gauze, but never blow.

Q?: Can I Get a Rhinoplasty if I am Pregnant and Expecting?

Pregnant mothers must wait until the child is born before undergoing rhinoplasty as there could be risks to the growing baby due to the administration of anesthesia or the stress of surgery.

Q?: When Can I Exercise After Undergoing a Rhinoplasty?

In the early stages of recovery, only very gentle exercise, such as light walks, should be performed. As your nose heals, you will be able to do more and more, but you must follow your surgeon’s orders before engaging in sports, vigorous exercise, running, or jogging.

Q?: How Much Will My Health Insurance Pay?

Health insurance does not pay for cosmetic changes to the nose but may pay some portion of surgery to resolve functional problems such as a crooked nose, deviated septum, or other physical issues that affect breathing and health.

An Insider's Guide to New York, NY

Looking into Rhinoplasty in New York, NY?

New York offers an array of activities to pursue during your rhinoplasty journey.

Central Park. This historical park in the center of Manhattan is a favorite spot for people watching, long walks, and enjoying the beauty of nature in grassy expanses, treed areas, lakes, and pleasant winding walkways.

Visit

Upper West Side. Home to the elite of NYC, a visit to the Upper West Side will allow you to enjoy historical architecture, the finest shopping, and top-rated restaurants.

Visit

See a Broadway Show: Don’t come to New York City without planning to see a Broadway show. Tickets can be hard to get, particularly for the most well-attended, long-running shows, so purchase your tickets well in advance of your trip to the city.

Visit

Museums: Plan a visit to the Met and MoMa to make your stay in New York City even more fulfilling. These are world class facilities with fascinating exhibits that should not be missed.

Visit

Looking for a place to eat?

New York is not Italy, but you’d never know it. You’ll enjoy the pizza at Rubirosa, where Italian/American comfort food is served with style, in an atmosphere of warmth and comfort – worth every bite.

Visit

A Bobby Flay favorite, for a world-class dinner out, Daniel delivers. Serving contemporary French cuisine and offering a superlative choice of wines, you can have a dinner to remember.

Visit

If you are a lover of classic barbeque, don’t miss Mighty Quinn’s, where only premium meats are served, naturally-raised. The meats are spectacular, and the side dishes worth a trip on their own.

Visit

Referred to as “the National,” this restaurant was established by chef Geoffrey Zakarian of Food Network fame. The eatery has exceptional service, with menu items to suit every taste, in a modern bistro setting. This establishment is known for serving faultless meals, including breakfast, lunch and dinner.

Visit

Rhinoplasty in the News

Adventures in Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a "nose job," is not just a 20th-century cosmetic procedure...

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3D-Printed Rhinoplasty Models

Computer-designed, 3D-printed models are emerging as a useful new tool for planning and carrying out cosmetic plastic surgery...

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Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Results

A nonsurgical rhinoplasty is a relatively new procedure, utilizing the benefits of injectable fillers for an in-office "nose job...

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Realistic Nose Changes

Having realistic expectations regarding the outcome of a rhinoplasty is critical. It's important...

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New Nose Job Trend Thanks to Millennials

Barbie-perfect nose jobs have no place in the age of body positivity. According to plastic surgeons, the nature of nose jobs is changing big time...

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Resources

www.plasticsurgery.com

www.americanboardcosmeticsurgery.org

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