There are many reasons for a nose job - to enhance its look, improve a breathing problem, or correct abnormalities caused by trauma or a birth defect. The nose's overall size, the tip, the bridge, and the nostrils can all be altered.

If aesthetics are your goal, however, keep your expectations realistic. Any nose job should simply enhance your natural facial features and emphasize your unique look. There is no "perfect" nose.

The Procedure:
To reshape the nose, incisions are made within the nostrils and in more difficult cases may also be made across the base of the nose. The inner bone and cartilage are then manipulated into the desired shape. The Plastic surgeon may remove a little bone and/or cartilage or add a cartilage graft. Because only a small amount of bone and/or cartilage is removed, the nose's overall structure is preserved - ensuring the proper shape and an adequate structural support over time.

Common Side Effects:
You can expect swelling and some bruising around the eyes after surgery. It will begin to improve after the third day but may last up to two weeks.

Complications:
Uncommon complications include bleeding, infection, difficulty breathing, nasal perforation, and difficulty smelling (usually temporary due to swelling). In some cases, there is an abnormal appearance that requires additional surgery.

Recovery:
You will wear a nasal splint for the first week after surgery. The majority of swelling will decrease during the first month, with more subtle swelling over a six-month period. The final shape of your nose will be apparent after it has healed completely.

You should avoid strenuous activity for three to four weeks after surgery. You may return to your social activities in as soon as two to three weeks without any recognizable appearance that you had surgery.