Rhinoplasty
in El Paso, TX
Nose Surgery
Your face is the key part of any first impression, and your nose is a central feature. Noses come in all shapes and sizes: some are well-shaped and proportionate to the rest of the face, while others are not.
For those who feel self-conscious about the size and shape of their noses, a rhinoplasty in El Paso, TX, with board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez can improve nasal shape, bridge or nostril size, nasal tip projection, and overall facial balance. Commonly referred to as a “nose job,” this procedure is also combined with nasal surgery to correct injuries, breathing issues, and certain congenital disabilities that impact daily life.
Whether your goal is cosmetic or functional, a rhinoplasty with Dr. Gonzalez can help create a nose that looks natural with your facial features.
What Is
Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure that reshapes the nose. This procedure can be primarily cosmetic, meaning patients desire to change their appearance specifically for aesthetic reasons. Many patients may need rhinoplasty for functional reasons, such as to improve breathing.
Rhinoplasty can create a more balanced aesthetic for the nose and improve the face’s overall appearance. Some issues that rhinoplasty can correct include:
- An out-of-proportion nose
- Bump on the bridge
- Downward curving tip
- Enlarged tip
- Flaring nostrils
- Off-center or crooked
- Lack of symmetry due to a previous injury
- A perpetually stuffy nose
These improvements can be achieved by shaving down cartilage or bone and reshaping the nostrils. The technique for this procedure varies widely, so your board-certified plastic surgeon will create a highly customized plan that incorporates your needs and goals.
Am I a Candidate
For Rhinoplasty?
If you dislike the appearance of your nose—such as thinking it is too large for your face or has an unappealing bump—you may be a candidate for rhinoplasty. Ideal candidates may also have a hard time breathing or snoring loudly at night.
Others may have both issues: they dislike a physical characteristic of their nose, and they have a functional issue they’d like to resolve. Any of these cases may mean you are a candidate for rhinoplasty.
Additionally, candidates should:
- Be generally in good health
- Not smoke or be willing to quit
- Have reasonable expectations for results
- Desire a change to the structure and appearance of their nose
If you’re interested in rhinoplasty and would like to see if you may be a candidate, call Dr. G. Plastic Surgery today at (915) 600-2639 to schedule a consultation. Dr. Gonzalez will examine your nose, listen to your concerns and goals, and help you decide if rhinoplasty is right for you.
How Is Rhinoplasty Performed?
Rhinoplasty is a highly nuanced and precise procedure, with the slightest changes significantly impacting the results. Your rhinoplasty procedure will be unique to you and your needs, as Dr. Gonzalez will create a custom surgical plan that best addresses your goals.
Your rhinoplasty may also be combined with a septoplasty, which corrects malformed nasal cartilage and can improve many types of breathing problems.
Closed Rhinoplasty
For patients with mild revisions, such as the removal of a bump or hump on the bridge of the nose or nose tip modifications, a closed rhinoplasty may be sufficient. While less invasive than open rhinoplasty, closed rhinoplasty only allows Dr. Gonzalez to make minor adjustments as the incisions are placed inside the nose.
Open Rhinoplasty
An open rhinoplasty allows for more in-depth revision, as Dr. Gonzalez will have greater visibility and control of the internal structures of the nose. With this technique, Dr. Gonzalez will make incisions across the columella, which is the small strip of tissue between the nostrils. While the incision is located outside of the nose, scarring is minimal and will fade with time. Most patients benefit from open rhinoplasty, as it allows Dr. Gonzalez to make more precise alterations.
Combination Procedures (Septoplasty)
Rhinoplasty is often combined with other facial or nasal procedures to achieve more comprehensive results and address functional concerns. One common example is septoplasty, which may be combined with rhinoplasty in a procedure known as septorhinoplasty.
Septoplasty is designed to fix a deviated, or “crooked,” septum. When the septum is uneven and shifts toward one side, it narrows the nasal airways, making breathing more difficult. During this procedure, Dr. Gonzalez makes a small incision across the columella. Next, the nasal mucosal lining is carefully lifted so the cartilage and bone can be straightened or adjusted to create a straight passage. The tissues are then placed back into position, and the incisions are closed with dissolving sutures.
How Can I Prepare
for Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty can drastically improve the appearance of your whole face, as the nose is a central feature that affects facial balance. However, it can be a shock to see your face so noticeably different, so it’s essential to consider the implications of this procedure fully.
During your consultation with Dr. Gonzalez, he will discuss the risks and benefits of rhinoplasty to help you determine if this procedure is right for you. Once you have decided that rhinoplasty is right for you and Dr. Gonzalez has created a surgical plan for you, you can start your preparations for rhinoplasty.
You will be provided with detailed instructions, which may include:
- Stopping or pausing certain medications, supplements, or vitamins that can cause bleeding or affect healing
- Quitting smoking before and after surgery
- Getting a lab test and any other physical examinations
In addition, it’s a good idea to have a recovery plan in place after your surgery. You may need a responsible driver to help you home the first day and someone to stay with you for the first night as you recover from anesthesia. It’s also a good idea to prepare your home for your recovery period, such as creating a comfortable resting space, arranging additional child care help, and taking time off work.
Call Us Today To Schedule Your Appointment
(915) 600-2639
What Is Recovery From Rhinoplasty Like?
Each patient will experience slight differences in their rhinoplasty recovery, depending on the nature of their procedure, the specifics of their surgical plan, and their natural healing responses.
Generally, recovery may look like the following:
Immediately After Surgery
You may be sent home with a protective splint and/or packing tissue inside your nose and a splint or bandage on the outside. This will support your nose and the new structures during the early stages of recovery and protect them from damage.
Expect swelling, bruising, and some discomfort immediately following the procedure. Dr. Gonzalez can prescribe pain medications if the discomfort proves to be unmanageable, but most patients can get by with over-the-counter medicines.
The Next Few Days
Since rhinoplasty can deal with the manipulation of the cartilage, bone, and thin nasal tissues, bruising and swelling may persist for quite some time. You may even experience bruising around your eyes. Don’t worry; this is entirely normal, as rhinoplasty is not a procedure that will yield instant results – it takes time. Be sure to follow Dr. Gonzalez’s instructions, and your recovery will go much smoother.
The Next Several Weeks and Beyond
Most patients can see a reduction in swelling and bruising after about ten days. You may have to return to Dr. Gonzalez to have your splints removed or swapped for smaller ones. As you heal, you should avoid exercise, sports, and blowing your nose for at least two weeks or under the instructions of Dr. Gonzalez.
What Results Can I Expect After Rhinoplasty?
You will notice the most difference once your splints and bandages are removed and the swelling and bruising have subsided, about one week to ten days after your procedure. The results of your rhinoplasty will only continue to improve as the structures strengthen and swelling reduces further, about three weeks after surgery.
You will start to see your final results about three months after your procedure. Most of the refinement will be visible at this point, although some healing is still happening. You will enjoy your rhinoplasty’s aesthetic and functional benefits as you breathe easier, have a more uniform and streamlined appearance, and enjoy your boosted confidence.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
According to recent CareCredit studies, the average cost of rhinoplasty in El Paso, TX, is around $8,549. However, your final price will depend on various factors, such as:
- Your specific surgical plan
- Complexity of the procedure
- The level of necessary revision
- The type of anesthesia used
- The techniques required
- Whether you have combined your rhinoplasty with any other facial enhancement procedures, such as a brow lift or eyelid surgery
- Anesthesia and facility fees
- Any related preoperative or postoperative care
A more straightforward rhinoplasty performed for cosmetic purposes may cost less than a revision rhinoplasty or a procedure that requires functional correction. Combination procedures may also lead to a higher total cost.
Since every nose job is highly personalized, Dr. Gonzalez will gladly provide you with an accurate cost estimate once a surgical plan has been created that addresses your unique goals and needs for the procedure.
Rhinoplasty FAQs
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How long does rhinoplasty surgery take?
Rhinoplasty generally takes about two to three hours. However, this depends on the extent and complexity of your surgical plan and the techniques involved.
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What’s the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
In an open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made outside of the nose. As a result, Dr. Gonzalez has more precision and access to the underlying nasal structures. In a closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nose for less extensive correction.
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Is there an ideal age range for rhinoplasty?
There is no ideal age for rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is one of the few procedures that can be performed on younger patients whose noses have finished growing, usually around 16 to 18 years. Additionally, rhinoplasty is appropriate for older patients who want a more harmonious facial profile.
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When will I see my final rhinoplasty results?
You will see early changes once the initial swelling improves, but your final results can take up to three months to fully refine. Swelling often improves within the first few weeks after surgery.
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Will rhinoplasty leave visible scars?
This depends on the surgical approach. Closed rhinoplasty incisions are hidden inside the nose, while open rhinoplasty uses small incisions outside of the nose. Regardless, incisions are carefully placed and fade well over time with proper aftercare.
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When can I return to work and exercise after rhinoplasty surgery?
Most patients should expect to take one week off from work, depending on their job. Strenuous exercise and intense activity should be avoided until you’re cleared by Dr. Gonzalez, as immediate activity may inhibit proper healing.
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How do I know if rhinoplasty is right for me?
The best way to know if rhinoplasty is right for you is through a personalized consultation with Dr. Gonzalez. During your visit, he will listen to your goals, explain your options clearly, and create a plan that considers both appearance and function.
Interested in Rhinoplasty in El Paso, TX?
Dr. Marco A. Gonzalez is a board-certified plastic surgeon in El Paso with decades of experience, bringing beautiful, personalized results to his patients. If you want to see how Dr. Gonzalez’s artistic eye can improve your facial harmony with rhinoplasty, call Dr. G Plastic Surgery today at (915) 600-2639 or complete our online contact form to schedule a consultation.
Patient Reviews
“Gave me back my confidence after correcting another surgeon’s work. Very professional, blessed, and gifted, a master at what he was clearly born to do. Went back for another surgery and couldn’t be happier.”
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