What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, also known as nasal reshaping surgery, is a procedure designed to alter the structure and appearance of the nose. As one of the most complex plastic surgery operations, it requires a skilled surgeon like Dr. Kim, who specializes in achieving consistent and predictable results. Dr. Kim is dedicated to ensuring optimal outcomes, focusing equally on both the aesthetic form and the functional aspects of the nose postoperatively.
How is Rhinoplasty Performed?
Dr. Kim will work with you to carefully craft an individualized surgical plan for your nose that takes into account your anatomy and shape preferences. He will also inform you as to what can be done safely and what can be done to ensure a nose that looks natural and well-proportioned. The surgical technique used may be one of two general approaches:
Types of rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty procedures vary, based upon the problems being addressed in surgery. These various types of surgeries include:
- Cosmetic rhinoplasty
- Functional rhinoplasty
- Revision/ correction rhinoplasty
Cosmetic rhinoplasty
Cosmetic rhinoplasty addresses the aesthetic aspects of the nose, creating a look and shape that is in harmony with the rest of your facial features without being distracting due to being overlarge, oddly shaped, drooping, an unsightly tip or other problem. Cosmetic rhinoplasty often can bring dramatic changes to underlying nasal structure to bring balance and create a shape that is an enhancement for your other facial features.
The surgery may require reshaping the nasal bridge, slimming the nostrils, reshaping the nasal tip, or changing the angle of the nasal tip. If your nose was injured and broken, affecting shape or direction, now appearing unbalanced, rhinoplasty can restore it to a healthy, natural and harmonious look.
Functional rhinoplasty
Functional rhinoplasty in Portland addresses aspects of the nose that are disruptive to healthy nasal functions. This can include a deviated septum or the correction of blocked or restricted nasal passages due to injury or genetics.
Revision rhinoplasty
Revision or correction rhinoplasty is used to correct or revise rhinoplasty that has been previously performed by another surgeon but failed to produce the desired results. Depending on the severity of the case, there is potential for wrongly-performed rhinoplasty to require multiple revisions to bring the nose to the intended goal.
Open rhinoplasty
This surgical technique is the most common approach utilized by Dr. Kim as it ensures the highest level of precision due to maximum exposure and visualization of the underlying nasal anatomy. A small incision is made across the columella (the narrow strip of skin between the nostrils). Once healed, the resultant scar is virtually invisible due to the meticulous closure performed at the end of the operation.
Endonasal or closed rhinoplasty
In select cases, your Portland rhinoplasty operation may be performed through incisions within the nostrils only. This approach is appropriate for less extensive primary nasal surgery with limited tip modifications and has the advantage of having no external scar and in some cases, faster postoperative healing.
What Concerns Can Rhinoplasty Address?
- Large and disproportionate nose
- Drooping nose tip
- Hump on nose bridge
- Bulbous nose tip
- Wide nose bridge
- Pinched nose tip
- Flat nose bridge
- Upturned nose tip
- Nose asymmetry
- Wide or flared nostrils
- Nasal obstruction
What Are The Benefits of Rhinoplasty
- Improved facial harmony and appearance
- Corrects asymmetry and crookedness
- Enhanced breathing functionality and quality
- Treats structural defects that cause sinus issues
- Boosts self-esteem and confidence
- Reduces or eliminates snoring and sleep apnea
- Corrects birth defects or injury-related deformities
The Rhinoplasty Procedure
Nose surgery in Portland typically requires about three hours to perform in our state-of-the-art surgical suite. During the procedure, you will be made comfortable and pain-free through the administration of intravenous sedation or general anesthesia. Once the procedure is completed, you will then be moved to our recovery room. After you are deemed appropriate for discharge, you will be taken home (or local accommodation) by a friend, family member, or medical transport service.
Am I a candidate for rhinoplasty?
You could be a candidate for rhinoplasty in Portland with Dr. Kim if you are generally unhappy with the shape or appearance of your nose. You could also be a candidate if you are experiencing structural difficulties affecting breathing function, such as a deviated septum. Many people seek to correct aspects or their nose due to genetics, injury or structural damage, or a combination of factors.
Ideal candidates:
- Are unhappy with the appearance of their nose or seeking structural correction
- Are non-smokers
- Are in good overall health
- Have realistic goals in mind for the procedure
To determine whether rhinoplasty is the right surgery for you, schedule a consultation today.
I cannot say enough positive things about Dr. Kim! His technical expertise is matched only by his positive energy. His whole staff matches his vibes and they put so much kindness, care, and fun into everything they do. I felt so safe with him and his staff throughout the whole process of my rhinoplasty. I couldn’t imagine a cuter, more feminine nose!
Angie N.
What procedures can I combine with rhinoplasty?
You may consider combining rhinoplasty with complementary procedures to enhance overall facial harmony and achieve your desired aesthetic goals. Some common procedures that can be combined with rhinoplasty include:
- Chin augmentation to improve facial balance
- Ear surgery to address protruding or asymmetrical ears
- Lip lift for enhanced lip contour
- Facelift or eyelid surgery for comprehensive facial rejuvenation
Why Choose Dr. Michael Kim for Rhinoplasty?
One of Dr. Kim’s greatest strengths as a surgeon is his ability to communicate with patients and include them as active participants in their treatment planning. He will spend as much time as you need to feel comfortable with the surgical plan and shape goals. Because your nose is literally “front and center” and in the middle of your face, you deserve a surgeon devoted to delivering consistently beautiful and functional nasal surgery results. After surgery, Dr. Kim is readily available to address any issues that may arise and to answer your questions expeditiously.
Dr. Michael Kim is recognized as one of the finest Portland rhinoplasty surgeons and routinely receives referrals from other plastic surgery providers who trust him with their patients who require complex nasal operations. Because Dr. Kim’s practice performs a high volume of rhinoplasty operations, you can trust that your procedure will be performed by a surgeon who is intimately familiar with the vast array of anatomical differences and challenges inherent to this operation.
Average costs of Rhinoplasty
The average cost of rhinoplasty varies widely with the individual needs of the patient. Therefore, an accurate quote for surgery requires an in-office consultation and examination to personalize your plan. Simply put, there is a direct correlation between the costs of surgery and the required operative time and expertise. After your initial consultation visit with Dr. Kim, we will provide you with a written cost estimate for the surgery. For added payment flexibility, you may seek financing through reputable lenders such as CareCredit to help manage the costs.
How Long Does it Take to Recover From a Nose Job?
Dr. Kim believes that there are two types of recovery that each patient experiences: “medical recovery” and “social recovery.” From a medical standpoint, patients are back to light workout type activity at one week, and full physical activity at two weeks. Many people return to work at one week with minimal pain or discomfort. Social recovery takes longer as there may be 10-14 days of bruising around the eyes, and swelling takes weeks to months to dissipate. On average, 25% of the swelling remains at two weeks such that only the closest family members and friends would be able to notice. At four weeks, about 15% of the swelling remains and this slowly dissipates over the rest of the year.
What Will I Feel Like After Nose Surgery?
In the first few days after surgery, your nose will feel stuffy and you will likely only breathe out of your mouth. In general, pain is minimal with most patients only needing 24 to 72 hours of prescription pain medication. You should keep your head elevated at all times, avoid bending over, and avoid all vigorous physical activity. Take gentle walks, eat a healthy, salt-reduced diet, avoid alcohol, and let your body use all of its energy for healing.
How Do I Plan for Rhinoplasty?
You need to arrange for time off work, school, and/or social activities for ten days to two weeks. Arrange for someone to stay with you for the first night if you do not live with family. Fill all needed prescriptions prior to your surgical appointment.
Purchase easy-to-prepare food and drinks (low sodium diet is preferred). Arrange your bed with a foam wedge so you can sleep with your head elevated above the level of your heart. Arrange all the items that will keep you comfortable and entertained during the first few days within easy access to your bed or reclining chair.
Arrange for transportation from our surgery center from a friend or family member, and read your aftercare instructions to understand bathing and other activity restrictions. The more prepared you are, the smoother your recovery will be. Dr. Kim will be monitoring your progress after surgery and will contact you the night of surgery or the following day. You will then meet at his office about one week after surgery and at several other postop appointments. He is always available to answer any questions or concerns.
How Long Before I Can Drive Following Rhinoplasty?
You will not be able to drive until you are no longer taking prescription pain medication. It is important when driving that you have clear vision, so swelling around the eyes must be minimal enough not to cause visual obstruction. If you wear glasses, you may save and use your plastic splint as a buffer between the glasses and the skin for protection.