Rhinoplasty is a highly personalized procedure designed to refine the shape of your nose, improve facial balance, and in some cases, support better breathing. If you are thinking about surgery, it is natural to wonder what actually happens on the day of the procedure and afterward. While every treatment plan is tailored to individual patients, most rhinoplasty procedures follow the same general path. Here is a basic overview of what your care team may do:
Anesthesia
The procedure begins with anesthesia so you can remain comfortable and safe throughout surgery. Depending on the details of your treatment, your facial plastic surgeon may recommend local anesthesia with sedation or general anesthesia. This decision is based on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, your health history, and your surgeon’s clinical judgment. Either way, you can expect to feel little to nothing as your team works.
Incision
Once the anesthesia has taken effect, your doctor will make precise incisions to reach the underlying bone and cartilage. In a closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are placed inside the nostrils. In an open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made across the tissue between the nostrils, called the columella. Your care team will choose the approach that offers the best access for your specific needs. Both methods are designed with careful attention to healing and with the goal of minimizing visible scarring.
Reshaping
This is the stage where your surgical plan comes to life. Your facial plastic surgeon may reduce a hump, refine the tip, narrow the bridge, correct asymmetry, or adjust internal structures that affect airflow. In some cases, cartilage is repositioned or added to support the new shape and maintain function. The goal is not to create a nose that looks artificial or disconnected from the rest of your features. Instead, your team works to achieve an outcome that looks balanced, natural, and aligned with the goals you discussed during your consultation.
Closing Incisions
After the reshaping is complete, the skin is carefully redraped and the incisions are closed with fine sutures. Your surgeon may place an external splint, internal supports, or light dressings to protect the new contours as your nose begins to heal. These supports are temporary, but they play an important role in early recovery. Before you leave, you will receive detailed aftercare instructions so you know how to clean the area, manage swelling, and protect your results.
Recovery
After surgery, you will spend time in a recovery area while the anesthesia wears off. Most rhinoplasty procedures are outpatient, which means you will likely return home the same day with instructions from your surgical team. During the first week, swelling, bruising, congestion, and mild discomfort are common. Many patients feel ready to return to work or other light activities within about 1 – 2 weeks, but healing continues well beyond that point. As swelling gradually improves over the following months, your results will become more and more noticeable.
Are you considering rhinoplasty? Ask your facial plastic surgeon to walk you through the process so you can move forward with confidence!
Meet the Practice
Dr. Gary Wiesman is a facial plastic surgeon and ENT specialist with many years of experience. He has performed countless rhinoplasty procedures, and he has a strong track record of patient satisfaction. If you are thinking about undergoing this treatment, he and our team would be happy to answer your questions. To request an appointment, contact our Chicago office at 312-796-5550.
