Rhinoplasty Questions

Q - What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, also referred to as nose surgery or aesthetic nasal surgery, is a plastic surgery procedure which can improve the appearance of the nose and correct some underlying medical problems. Aesthetic problems which may be corrected include an increase or decrease in the overall size, the removal of a hump, a decrease in the width of the nostrils, reshaping of the tip or bridge, and a change in the angle between the nose and upper lip. Problems which may affect breathing can also be corrected.

Q - What is functional rhinoplasty?
Functional rhinoplasty is aesthetic nasal surgery with the main goal of improving breathing. There are a variety of techniques for improving nasal airway obstruction including septoplasty, valvuloplasty, vestibuloplasty, turbinate reduction, and osteotomies.

Q - Is rhinoplasty right for me?
If you are healthy, over the age of sixteen, and have realistic goals for the improvement of your nose, you may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty.

Q - Are there any age restrictions for undergoing rhinoplasty?
Dr. Naderi performs rhinoplasty on patients who are over the age of sixteen.

Q - What does a consultation for rhinoplasty entail?
During a consultation for rhinoplasty, Dr. Naderi will examine the structure of your nose and face, take a thorough medical history, and discuss your goals. All aspects of the rhinoplasty procedure will be explained including the technique, the anesthesia, the facility, the recovery, the risks, the costs and so on.

Q - Where is rhinoplasty performed?
Dr. Naderi performs rhinoplasty at INOVA system hospitals which include Fair Oaks Hospital, Loudoun Hospital, Fairfax Hospital, and Mt. Vernon Hospital.

Q - What type of anesthesia is used for rhinoplasty?
General anesthesia is commonly used for rhinoplasty.

Q - How is rhinoplasty performed?
Incisions are made on the inside of the nose (endonasal or closed rhinoplasty) or on both the inside of the nose and on the outside of the nose on the skin separating the nostrils (external or open rhinoplasty). The nose is then reshaped by removing, adding to or rearranging certain amounts of bone and cartilage. When the desired shape is achieved, the incisions are closed and a splint is applied to the nose.

Q - How long does rhinoplasty take to perform?
Rhinoplasty takes about one and a half to two and a half hours to perform.

Q - Where are the incisions made for rhinoplasty?
Incisions may be confined to the inside of the nose which is known as endonasal or closed rhinoplasty. In some cases, incisions may be made on the inside of the nose along with a small incision made on the skin separating the nostrils, which is known as external or open rhinoplasty. About 70% of aesthetic rhinoplasty cases and 30% of functional rhinoplasty cases are performed as endonasal procedures.

Q - Does rhinoplasty leave scars?
Endonasal rhinoplasty results in no visible scarring as the incisions are located on the inside of the nose. External rhinoplasty does result in a small, fine-line scar that is well concealed on the underside of the nose between the nostrils.

Q - Does rhinoplasty involve much pain?
Patients may experience a dull headache and the nose may ache. Medication can help to control any discomfort that patients experience.

Q - What is the recovery like after rhinoplasty?
The face may appear pale and puffy right after surgery, and swelling and bruising may occur around the eyes. Though some unnoticeable swelling can last for up to a year, the majority of swelling fades in about two weeks. Dressings and splints are usually removed in one to two weeks.

Q - When will I be able to return to work after undergoing rhinoplasty?
Patients can usually return to work abut a week after rhinoplasty.

Q - How soon will I be able to exercise after my rhinoplasty procedure?
Patients will need to wait at least two to three weeks before partaking in strenuous activities and exercise.

Q - When will my stitches be removed after my rhinoplasty procedure?
External sutures are removed in three days after the rhinoplasty procedure. Endonasal sutures need not be removed.

Q - What are the risks or complications associated with rhinoplasty?
All surgery carries potential risks. Those associated with rhinoplasty may include nose bleed (1-3%) and the need for minor revision (5%).

Q - Is rhinoplasty covered by insurance?
Rhinoplasty procedures performed for cosmetic purposes only are typically not covered by insurance, though some degree of coverage may be available when used to correct breathing problems. Patients should check with their own insurance company.

Q - Can I finance my rhinoplasty procedure?
Financing is available for many plastic surgery procedures.

Dr. Naderi's office in Herndon, VA is conveniently located near the following: