Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure on the inside of the nose to improve the outside appearance of the nose.  It may include alterations of the bone, cartilage, or both.  Frequently the goals of rhinoplasty are to refine the nasal tip, reduce a nasal hump, or straighten the nose.  All of the incisions and sutures (stitches) are inside the nose.  Internal and external splints are used after surgery to help stabilize the nose and ensure good results.  Occasionally, rhinoplasty involves the removal of excess tissue requiring external incisions to be made at the base the nasal ala (the wing of the nose as it attaches to the upper lip).

A nasal tip rhinoplasty involves manipulation of the skin and cartilage only and may be an option for some patients. Small incisions are made on the sides of the columella (the skin bridge between the nostrils) in addition to incisions inside of the nose.  An external splint is used after surgery to help stabilize the nose.

The nose is only one part of the face and sometimes other aspects of the face can affect the appearance of the nose (making it seem longer or larger) – especially the teeth, jaws, or unevenness of the facial skeleton.  Faces are naturally asymmetrical and sometimes facial surgery can make asymmetries more noticeable.  It should also be noted that any change in the nose can affect both its function and appearance.

Rhinoplasty can be performed in conjunction with a septoplasty.  For more information about septoplasty, please click here.

If you would like to schedule a consultation to discuss rhinoplasty with Dr. Stieg, please call our office at 407-647-4601.