It might seem odd, or even mean, that the name of the surgery to correct the appearance of a nose sounds similar to rhinoceros, a bulky animal with a large horn on its nose. The name rhinoplasty is not a nod to the horned-nose mammal. It is simply a combination of the Greek words for "nose" (rhinos) and "to shape" (plassein).
Casually referred to as a nose job or nose surgery,
rhinoplasty surgery does just what the name indicates, it reshapes the nose. In many cases rhinoplasty is performed as a cosmetic surgery procedure; however, the procedure can also be used as a reconstructive surgery to correct a nasal defect, like a deviated septum.
Nose Job Candidates
Rhinoplasty candidates should be in at least their mid-teens. In most cases, girls can get a nose job at an earlier age than boys. It is recommended that female nose reshaping candidates should be at least 14; male patients should be a few years older.
As with other surgeries, rhinoplasty candidates should be aware of the possibilities and limitations of nose surgery. Plastic surgeons should discuss the patient's expectations of the surgery and ensure that the possible outcome of the surgery will match those expectations.
Rhinoplasty Results
Depending on the patient's needs, the nose can be reshaped through various means. Some rhinoplasty surgeries only alter the structure of the nose slightly, but produce amazing results. Rhinoplasty can be performed on the bridge of the nose, the tip of the nose, or the interior of the nose. In some cases, implants may be added to the nose to better reshape the nose to meet the patient's needs. This technique is often used in ethnic rhinoplasty procedures.
Unfortunately, some rhinoplasty surgeries do not go as well as expected. In these cases, a revision rhinoplasty may be needed to correct any errors from the original nose job. Because of the possibility of errors, it is important to use a
board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive rhinoplasty experience when you get a nose job.