What can a Rhinoplasty (Nose Reshaping Procedure) do for me?

We appreciate that you have given us the opportunity to explain how a Rhinoplasty can help you get the look you desire.

At Blue Illusion, Rhinoplasties are performed for both functional reasons (breathing difficulties) and cosmetic reasons. These problems may occur in isolation of each other, or both may be present and can be corrected at the same time. Hence, a typical Rhinoplasty procedure can achieve:

  • Widening of the airways
  • Correction of a deviated septum
  • Straightening of a “crooked” nose
  • Removing a “bump” on the nose.
  • Increasing or decreasing the size of the nose
  • Altering the tip of the nose

Many questions may arise when considering a Rhinoplasty in La Jolla and Carlsbad. At Blue Illusion in La Jolla and Carlsbad our doctors are ready to help thoroughly discuss all options through complementary and personalized consultations. Click on our contact us page to schedule a consultation and connect with our doctors.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

1. The Consultation

The consultation is one of the most unique experiences you will have at Blue Illusion. Our approach is radically different from a traditional consultation, and we truly believe in a holistic approach. Dr Mehta will make understanding your concerns and goals a top priority. . Once he has listened to your concerns, he will use his expert training and experience to create a customized treatment plan that will work for you. Our practice offers the advantage of an ENT trained Facial Plastic Surgeon (Dr. Mehta) who will ensure that both nasal function and appearance are optimized. Our approach ensures that we address anatomic issues related to breathing so that the rhinoplasty procedure does not result in trouble breathing through your nose.

Every patient has unique anatomic characteristics that require modification, both functionally and cosmetically. Furthermore, there are often many factors producing each type of anatomic defect and there is more than one way to correct each factor. Thus, it is imperative that each individual’s nose is examined carefully and comprehensively while keeping overall facial harmony in mind. We are also experts at revision rhinoplasty to correct cosmetic and functional deformities that may have occurred from previous procedures.

2. Choosing the Right Procedure for You

Our physicians aim to keep this procedure the safest for you while providing a cosmetically appealing shape to the nose and a harmonious look to the face. The nose and chin are important balancing features of the profile, and for this reason a separate or combined procedure may be discussed during your consultation for chin augmentation or modification if needed for your facial harmony. Your skin type and ethnic background is also kept in mind. The expectations are discussed in detail prior to your surgery and any unreasonable expectation is explained since our ultimate goal is to give you a natural looking, beautiful and functional nose.

3. Surgery Day

Before a Rhinoplasty in San Diego, patients should pay close attention to their current medications and should discontinue the use of blood thinners such as aspirin and fish oil. On the day of Rhinoplasty, patients should wear loose fitting clothing and arrive one hour before the scheduled surgery. Be certain to be accompanied by a family member or friend who can assist you after surgery and drive you home once you feel alert and oriented. These easy steps can make recovery safe and manageable.

4. Recovery and Results

Recovery from a Rhinoplasty procedure varies with each person. After rhinoplasty, most of the obvious swelling resolves in two weeks after the surgery; however, it can take six to twelve months for minor residual swelling to resolve. Some numbness may be present for several months, and optimal breathing may take weeks or months following surgery. Patients generally report being uncomfortable rather than having pain. Regardless, pain medications are always prescribed. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and patients go home the same day.

Learn more about the Rhinoplasty in San Diego recovery process by clicking on our Rhinoplasty Recovery page.

Before and After Photos for Rhinoplasty

Have a look at some of our before and after cosmetic surgery pictures:

Some common Rhinoplasty Surgery Questions

Am I a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty in San Diego is a procedure that can greatly improve facial harmony and is appropriate for men and women who are interested in improving the size and/or shape of the nose, improvement in the nasal airway, or reconstruct damage caused by injury or previous surgery. The procedure is recommended for those who are above the age of 16 years old.

Will insurance cover my rhinoplasty procedure?

Functional issues such as airway obstruction or previous trauma may be covered by insurance. At Blue Illusion, we are unique in accepting all major insurances, and our office manager and insurance coordinators will work with you to determine whether a portion or all of your procedure can be covered by insurance.

What is a non-surgical rhinoplasty?

Non-surgical rhinoplasty is an office based procedure that can make dramatic differences in the shape of the nose using a filler such as Radiesse. Depending on the changes you are looking for, you may be a candidate for this simple in-office procedure that can make a dramatic difference. Dr. Mehta will determine your candidacy for non-surgical rhinoplasty during your consultation.

Will I be put under general anesthesia?

Rhinoplasty in San Diego is usually performed as an outpatient surgery, typically under general anesthesia, although local anesthesia can be utilized in select cases.

What does a rhinoplasty procedure involve?

Rhinoplasty involves meticulously separating the nasal skin and soft tissues from the underlying cartilage and bony structure. This allows our surgeons to then address areas of deformity and reduce or augment the underlying framework as needed. Dr. Mehta is an expert at endonasal (i.e. done through inside the nose – no external incisions) or open (done through a small incision across the columella which is the strip of tissue that is between the nostrils) rhinoplasty. During your consultation, he will determine which approach is best for you.

How long does it take to recover from rhinoplasty?

Recovery from rhinoplasty occurs in two phases. The majority of the initial swelling resolves within the first two weeks. Mild residual swelling can take several months to resolve, but this does not hamper any of your activities. Most patients are able to return to work or school within a week or two. Discomfort is typically minimal, although pain medication is always given.