Rhinoplasty Myths and Facts

Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed plastic surgery procedures in the country, and surgeons perform tens of thousands of cases each year. (1) Despite their widespread popularity, it is still common for many myths to spread online. This can leave many patients confused about what rhinoplasty facts are true or not. Through this guide, we will clarify and dispel some common myths and facts surrounding this procedure.

I, Dr. Alexander Ovchinsky, am a double board-certified physician and ENT at Plastic Surgery of Short Hills. I possess more than 20 years in medicine and am considered by my peers to be a true rhinoplasty specialist. I am renowned in all forms of rhinoplasty and offer numerous variations of the procedure to deliver goals ranging from subtle to striking.

If you are ready to start working with me, please schedule a personal consultation online or call the office closest to you at:

About Rhinoplasties

A rhinoplasty, or a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that can reshape the nose to address both cosmetic and functional concerns. (1) In the procedure, I can reshape, rebuild, or reposition nasal structures, shape and place cartilage grafts, repair nasal valves, and more, helping elevate your personal comfort and aesthetic appearance.

Types of Rhinoplasty Techniques

I primarily perform two rhinoplasty techniques: the open rhinoplasty and the closed rhinoplasty.

  • Open Rhinoplasty: Open rhinoplasty places incision across the columella, or the strip of flesh found between the nostrils.
  • Closed Rhinoplasty: Closed rhinoplasty keeps incisions inside the nasal cavities, eliminating external incision. (1)

Myths and Facts

Rhinoplasties Only Address Cosmetic Concerns

Most patients believe that rhinoplasties only improve the aesthetics of your nose. This is a myth, as rhinoplasties can also address functional concerns. (1) These typically include nasal obstruction due to septal deviation, nasal valve stenosis, turbinate hypertrophy, and other structural malfunctions.

If you are undergoing a rhinoplasty for medical reasons, your insurance may cover part of the procedure!

Rhinoplasties Offer Permanent Results

Few procedures offer permanent results, but it is true that rhinoplasties do. This is because this procedure reshapes and repositions your bony structures and cartilage. This makes it a worthwhile investment for many patients who only want to undergo one procedure and recovery time.

There is Only One Type of Rhinoplasty

Many patients believe that there is only one way to perform a rhinoplasty, or that these procedures only cater to one audience. This is a myth, as several different surgical approaches and numerous rhinoplasty techniques can correct nasal concerns of all degrees. I specialize in rhinoplasty procedures and can perform several variations, such as:

Rhinoplasties Are Simple Procedures

One of the biggest misconceptions about rhinoplasties is that they are simple to perform. Many cosmetic and plastic surgeons rightfully consider rhinoplasties to be the most complex procedure in head and neck surgery, as they need to balance the functional needs of the patient and their desired goals. Additionally, the structures in the region are very small, delicate, and complex, making them difficult to work with. (2)

Anyone Can Undergo A Rhinoplasty

Many people believe that if you want a rhinoplasty, you can simply get one. This statement is a myth, as rhinoplasties are surgical procedures. That means that you have to fulfill a list of eligibility requirements to undergo this procedure. These typically include:

  • Wanting to reshape the nose to refine its appearance
  • Needing to improve the functionality of the nose
  • Being in good general health
  • Maintaining realistic expectations and goals

Alongside these criteria, there are also conditions my team and I look for. The most common of which are:

  • Psychiatric disorders
  • Obstructive sleep apnea
  • Cocaine use
  • Bleeding disorders
  • Medical problems
  • Recent nasal surgery (1)

It Is Easy To Spot A Rhinoplasty

Many people think it is easy to spot when someone has had rhinoplasty surgery, but this is a myth. There are many people, celebrities included, who have undergone rhinoplasty, who look completely natural and unoperated. In fact, I frequently hear from my patients that their friends and even close family could not easily spot that they had rhinoplasty simply because their noses appear very natural. My rhinoplasty signature is achieving results that appear natural, well proportionate, and flattering to the existing facial structure of the patient.

Only Women Undergo Rhinoplasties

It is common to believe that rhinoplasty procedures are only for women, but this is a myth. Increasingly more men have been elevating their appearances by undergoing plastic surgery, especially rhinoplasties. In 2024, studies by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons found that men underwent 14% of all rhinoplasty procedures that year, a 2.2% rise from 2023. (3)

I can perform a male rhinoplasty to help my patients attain a nose that resonates with them. This procedure is designed to meet the unique beauty standards and expectations of men, allowing them to attain a sculpt that instills confidence and a greater sense of masculinity overall.

Personal Consultation

The best way to determine whether or not a rhinoplasty is right for you is by attending a personal consultation. Here, I will meet with you to review your medical history, learn about your concerns, establish realistic expectations and goals, and perform a physical examination of your facial anatomy and nasal structures.

I will then use this information to finalize your candidacy and create your treatment plan. I will determine whether a rhinoplasty will help you, and what type of rhinoplasty. I will also take the time to answer and address each of your questions and concerns.

Preparation

Once you have scheduled your rhinoplasty procedure, I will provide you with detailed instructions to help you prepare. These typically include:

  • Avoiding Certain Medications: Cease the use of medications and supplements that may thin your blood.
  • Coordinating Transportation: Have a trusted friend or relative drive you home after the procedure.
  • Taking Time Away: Plan time away from your responsibilities and commitments to give your body time to heal.

Procedure

When you arrive for your procedure, a member of our team will lead you to a private treatment room where you will meet with me one last time. I will reconfirm the details of your treatment plan and answer any remaining questions you have. You will then be taken to the operating room and put under general anesthesia by a very experienced anesthesiologist. I will then cleanse your skin and mark the incision site.

I will then proceed to place an incision either within the nasal cavities or across the columella to access the nasal framework. Through these incisions, I will perform your corrections, whether they consist of reshaping your nasal structures, placing cartilage grafts, or restructuring certain regions of the nose.

Recovery

I perform each rhinoplasty procedure on an outpatient basis, which means that I will release you from my care on the same day that you receive your corrections. When I do, I will provide you with detailed post-operative instructions to help guide you through each step of your recovery. These include caring for your incisions, managing any side effects, when to resume certain activities, how to support your healing nose, and more.

Results

It can take up to a year for your results to refine themselves. While they will vary, you can expect to enjoy a straighter, more shapely nose that flatters your facial sculpt. You will also be able to experience improvements in your nasal functionality and breathing.

Cost of Rhinoplasties in Short Hills, New Jersey

The pricing of your procedure will vary depending on certain aspects of your treatment plan, such as the type of rhinoplasty you receive, the complexity of surgery, whether I perform any additional procedures or use cartilage grafts from outside of the nose, and more. Once I have met with you in person to discuss each of these details, my staff will provide you with a comprehensive cost estimate.

FAQ

How will I know which type of rhinoplasty is right for me?

Attending a personal consultation is the best way to determine whether you will benefit from a rhinoplasty, and what type of rhinoplasty will best address your needs.

How long will it take for me to recover after my rhinoplasty?

You may return to most non-strenuous activities after one week, but anything demanding should be avoided until I have approved your return.

Will my insurance company cover the cost of my rhinoplasty?

Your insurance company may cover part of your rhinoplasty (primarily septoplasty part) if they deem it medically necessary. We recommend checking in with your insurance provider beforehand to learn more about your policy details and benefits.

What is the difference between a surgical rhinoplasty and a non-surgical rhinoplasty?

A surgical rhinoplasty recontours your nose by placing cartilage grafts and repositioning and reshaping your nasal structures. On the other hand, non-surgical rhinoplasties use dermal fillers to shape the nose.

Can Dr. Ovchinsky combine my rhinoplasty with another facial recontouring procedure?

Yes, I can combine your procedure with another facial cosmetic procedure such as facelift, blepharoplasty, or chin implant for deeper, more transformative facial rejuvenation.

References

  1. Hohman MH, Fichman M, Piedra IT. Rhinoplasty. StatPearls Publishing; 2024. Accessed August 6, 2026. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/#article-28523.s4
  2. Tasman AJ. Rhinoplasty – indications and techniques. GMS Current Topics in Otorhinolaryngology, Head and Neck Surgery. 2008;6:Doc09. Accessed August 6, 2026. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3199847/
  3. ASPS. 2024 ASPS Procedural Statistics Release. American Society of Plastic Surgeons ® Endorsed Partner; 2024. https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf
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