Rhinoplasty Explained: Insights from a Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon

Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose to elevate and refine its aesthetic appearance and/or function. ^(1,2) This procedure alters the underlying structures of the nose to correct concerns such as a bulbous, droopy, or wide nasal tip, asymmetrical or deviated nasal bridge, dorsal hump, and more, restoring a more balanced appearance to your face.

I’m Dr. Alexander Ovchinsky. As the founder and Medical Director of Plastic Surgery of Short Hills, I have helped thousands of patients renew their self-confidence through stunning rhinoplasty results. I maintain double-board certification and have extensive fellowship training exclusively in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery, and I’ve been refining my rhinoplasty techniques for over two decades.

If you are ready to learn more, please schedule a consultation online or call the office closest to you:

About Rhinoplasty

When performing this procedure, I can make alterations to the cartilage, soft tissues, and bony structures of your nose to achieve your ideal appearance. I can also correct functional and structural concerns, such as a deviated septum and nasal valve problems, making it easier for you to breathe.

Types of Rhinoplasty

I am experienced in various types of rhinoplasty procedures, including:

My Philosophy

As a surgeon who performs about 200 rhinoplasty procedures each year, my surgical philosophy lies in providing individualized care and attention to help each patient achieve their ideal nose. I carefully tailor each treatment plan around each patient’s unique needs, aesthetic goals, and nasal and facial anatomy. I use flexible and versatile techniques that can be adjusted on a case-by-case basis.

When you work with me, you can rest assured you are working with a qualified expert who can help you achieve natural, long-lasting results that age gracefully over time. I estimate that less than 1% of my patients require revision, which is significantly below the national average. I encourage you to take a look at the many 5-star reviews I’ve received from patients throughout the years.

Candidates

Suitable candidates for a rhinoplasty procedure include those interested in addressing functional concerns, aesthetic concerns, or a combination of both. ⁽¹⁾

If you are interested in undergoing a rhinoplasty, you should be in good general health and hold realistic expectations regarding your results.

To find out for certain if you are a good candidate for rhinoplasty, you will need to attend a personal consultation with me.

My Consultation Approach

I value an extensive, informative consultation where I make sure my patients feel comfortable and welcome to express their concerns. Your personal consultation will be a great opportunity to learn more about what rhinoplasty entails and how the procedure may benefit you. During your consultation, I will meet with you one-on-one to learn more about your medical history, personal concerns, and treatment goals. I will also do a full examination of your facial anatomy in general and nasal anatomy in particular, which commonly includes looking inside the nose with a flexible camera.

I will then use this information to determine whether a rhinoplasty is right for you and create a personalized solution for your needs. I will discuss feasible outcomes and surgical options, recommending the most effective surgical techniques. I will also take your photos and provide you with a simulation to help you envision your surgical results. We will discuss these simulations in detail, adjust as needed, to make sure we are on the same page as far as the rhinoplasty planning and the final results go.

To schedule your consultation, please contact us online or call the office closest to you:

Preparation

In preparation for your rhinoplasty, I will give you a set of comprehensive pre-operative instructions. I may advise you to:

Procedure

My primary practice is in Short Hills, New Jersey, which is approximately 30 minutes from NYC. I also perform surgeries in Manhattan and at two surgery centers in New Jersey. Our location is convenient for out-of-state and international patients, as it’s only 20 minutes from Newark International airport.

When you arrive for your procedure, a member of my team will lead you to your private treatment room, where you will meet with my surgical team and me. We will review the details of your treatment plan and go over postoperative instructions with you one last time. You will also meet with an anesthesiologist who will administer anesthesia for your comfort.

I will perform your procedure using one of two techniques: the open approach or the closed approach. This will have been determined ahead of time and will depend on your concerns and nasal anatomy.

After exposing the nasal bony-cartilaginous framework, I may refine your nasal tip, reshape your dorsal hump, correct dorsal deviation, address any unevenness or asymmetry, create a narrower nasal base, and more.

If needed, I can also place cartilage grafts to help provide structural changes and support to your nose, although they are used selectively. I can harvest this cartilage from your septum (or your rib or ear in certain instances) and reshape it, or I can use donor cartilage if this is the route we decided to go with preoperatively.

Recovery

After undergoing your rhinoplasty, you can expect to experience some swelling and bruising in the treatment area and underneath the eyes. These effects are temporary and will subside on their own with time, but you may manage them using the medications I have prescribed to you. You should also try to get plenty of rest. When our team sends you home, your nose will be taped and a surgical splint will be in place. You will need to wear these dressings throughout the first week of your recovery, then I will remove them.

After approximately one week, you will be able to return to most of your daily and social activities. Many patients can also attend major events, including weddings, anniversaries, and meetings, after just two weeks. However, you will need to avoid any physically demanding or strenuous activities for a minimum of four weeks. I will see you at your pre-scheduled follow-up appointments throughout your recovery.

I will provide you with a full set of post-operative instructions to help guide you as you heal. If you have any questions or concerns, we encourage you to give us a call or inquire about setting up your first consultation.

Cost of Rhinoplasty in New Jersey and New York City

The cost of your rhinoplasty will vary depending on the details of your procedure, including the complexity of your surgery, whether I integrate any additional procedures into your treatment plan, and more. During your consultation, I will discuss each of these factors with you and give you a comprehensive cost estimate for your rhinoplasty. Plastic Surgery of Short Hills also offers financing for anyone who may be interested.

To discover the cost of your rhinoplasty, we invite you to schedule a consultation online.

FAQ

References

1. Hohman MH, Fichman M, Piedra IT. Rhinoplasty. Nih.gov. Published September 2, 2024. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/#article-28523.s4
2. Altidor A, Ferri FA, Fadi Bakhos, Mascaro-Pankova A. Functional Rhinoplasty. Cureus. Published online September 26, 2023. doi:https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.45993