Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty at a Glance
- Average Cost Range:
- Approximately $12,000-$17,000 (varies among patients based on the concerns being addressed and the customized treatment plan)
- Discomfort Level:
- Mild to moderate; managed with prescribed pain medication
- Anesthesia Options:
- Typically rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia. Occasionally, sedation or local anesthesia can be used as well for specific cases.
- Recovery Period:
- Majority of swelling and bruising subside within six weeks; final results visible in 6–12 months
- Results Length:
- Permanent, though subtle changes in nasal structure may occur over time
- Potential Benefits:
- Enhance overall facial harmony by refining the shape, size, or projection of the nose; improve nasal symmetry, correct structural issues that impair breathing, and provide long-lasting aesthetic and functional improvements that can boost confidence and self-image
A rhinoplasty, or “nose job,” is a procedure that surgically alters nose shape, size, and projection, creating a more attractive facial balance. Issues such as an overly large nose, dorsal hump, wide nose, crooked nose, hanging or bulbous tip, or overly large nostrils or bridge can all be reshaped with a rhinoplasty.
Our Philadelphia facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Jonathan Pontell and Dr. Catherine Weng, offer a comprehensive range of rhinoplasty procedures, including dorsal hump reduction, nasal tip contouring, nostril adjustment, septorhinoplasty, ethnic rhinoplasty, and revision rhinoplasty. Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng bring the highest quality of facial aesthetic and reconstructive surgical services to the Delaware Valley. If you are interested in a rhinoplasty procedure, we encourage you to schedule a consultation at our Main Line office to discuss your goals, concerns, and desired outcomes. Please contact us today to take the first step toward achieving the nose you’ve always desired.
Topics On This Page:
- What Is Rhinoplasty?
- Why Choose Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng for Rhinoplasty?
- Types of Rhinoplasty
- Rhinoplasty Before-and-After Photos
- Rhinoplasty Benefits
- Rhinoplasty Candidates
- Jennifer’s Rhinoplasty Testimonial
- Rhinoplasty Consultation
- Rhinoplasty Procedure
- Rhinoplasty Recovery
- Rhinoplasty Timeline
- Rhinoplasty Cost
- Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty
- Additional Rhinoplasty FAQs
- Medical References
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is any surgery performed to change the shape of the nose. Its goal is to create an improved nasal contour that is in harmony with the rest of the face while maintaining or improving nasal breathing. It is a hugely popular surgery, with an estimated 350,000 procedures performed every year.
Why Choose Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng for Rhinoplasty?
Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng are double board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology/Head and Neck Surgery. As every plastic surgeon knows, rhinoplasty is recognized as the single most challenging aesthetic surgery procedure.1 Experience is indispensable to achieving consistently effective results. Dr. Pontell in particular has performed over 5,000 rhinoplasties. Dr. Weng has also performed hundreds of rhinoplasties. Both of our facial plastic surgeons are committed to helping patients achieve their aesthetic goals.
Our doctors’ exceptional cosmetic results are a testament to their unwavering commitment to providing a professional and meticulous experience. With expertise in both surgical and non-surgical rhinoplasty procedures, Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng will work diligently to achieve your ideal nose and optimized facial balance.
If you are considering rhinoplasty and would like to explore your options further, we invite you to contact us at (267) 508-7863 to schedule a consultation. Our doctors will guide you through the process, answer any questions or concerns you may have, and develop a customized treatment plan tailored to your individual needs.
What Are the Different Types of Rhinoplasty?
There are varying types of reasons patients seek rhinoplasty surgery. Some common reasons we hear from patients include the following:
Dorsal Hump Reduction
A common concern many patients have is a dorsal hump, which refers to a prominent bump on the bridge of the nose. This can create an unbalanced and disproportionate appearance. It can also give the entire profile of the face a general convexity in the profile shape. This is an undesirable geometry that draws extra unwanted attention to the nose. Through rhinoplasty, Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng can carefully reshape the nasal bridge by removing excess bone and cartilage, resulting in a smoother, more balanced profile and a more aesthetically pleasing nose.
The dorsal hump is also one of the aesthetic concerns about the nose that can be remedied with non-surgical or “liquid rhinoplasty.” In this method, the surgeon uses injectable dermal fillers placed in strategic locations to camouflage the appearance of the dorsal hump and create an optical illusion of a straight nasal bridge. This procedure can be done in the office without surgery and minimal downtime; however, it is temporary and usually lasts about one year.
Nasal Tip Contouring
The shape and projection of the nasal tip play a crucial role in the overall appearance of the nose. If you are dissatisfied with the shape of your nasal tip, whether it’s bulbous, drooping, or asymmetrical, rhinoplasty can address these concerns. By refining and reshaping the nasal tip, we can achieve a more defined and refined look that complements your facial features.
A bulbous or “ball-like” tip can draw excess attention to the nose and can be addressed by trimming and suturing cartilage in the nose to give it a more structured and refined appearance. A bulbous, rounded tip of the nose may also be caused by thick skin, or a condition called rhinophyma that can, over time, thicken the skin around the tip of the nose. This can often be addressed by laser resurfacing techniques to physically thin the skin at the tip of the nose.
Occasionally very thin skin stretched over asymmetrically shaped cartilage can make the tip of the nose look aesthetically unpleasing. This can also be repaired with sutures and cartilage grafts to improve the appearance of the nose.
A droopy tip can make the nose appear long and unattractive. Sometimes patients notice that, when they smile, this droopiness appears worse. This can be addressed by dividing a muscle that causes the tip to droop and by reshaping cartilage inside the nose with sutures. Cartilage grafts are also used. The ideal position of the tip of the nose in men is at a right angle from the plane of the face and upper lip. For women, the most attractive position is slightly elevated from that right angle turned up at 95-105 degrees.
By refining and reshaping the nasal tip, Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng can achieve a more defined and refined look that complements your facial features, creating balance and harmony in the face.
Nostril Resizing Or Reshaping
The size and shape of the nostrils can also greatly influence the appearance of the nose. Some individuals may have nostrils that are too wide or flared, creating a disproportionate and unbalanced look. Some patients may have nostrils that appear uneven. Through rhinoplasty, we can adjust the size and shape of the nostrils to create a more harmonious and symmetrical nasal appearance.
Functional Rhinoplasty
In addition to cosmetic improvements, rhinoplasty can also address functional issues that affect your breathing. Conditions such as a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse can impede airflow and cause breathing difficulties. The septum is the wall of cartilage and bone that separates the two sides of the nose. This can be shifted or leaning on one side or the other, which can lead to the nose feeling blocked or congested primarily on one side. This issue can be fixed at the same time as a rhinoplasty.
Occasionally, an injury, such as from sports, can result in a crooked appearance of the nose. Injuries can result in broken nasal bones or weakened cartilage, which can also be repaired by rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty can correct these structural abnormalities, improving your nasal function and enhancing your overall quality of life.
Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Ethnic rhinoplasty is a specialized approach that respects and preserves the unique characteristics of various ethnicities while enhancing the overall harmony of the nose. Rhinoplasty is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. An attractive-appearing Asian nose is quite different from an attractive-appearing African American nose, or an attractive-appearing Caucasian nose. It would not look appropriate to perform a rhinoplasty that leaves an Asian patient with a Caucasian nose. Our facial plastic surgeons, Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng have extensive experience in performing ethnic rhinoplasty, ensuring that each patient’s individuality is celebrated and respected throughout the process.
Revision Rhinoplasty
In cases where previous rhinoplasty procedures have not achieved the desired outcome, revision rhinoplasty offers patients the opportunity to correct and improve any functional or cosmetic concerns. In some cases, a prior rhinoplasty healed well, but over the years the shape of the nose changed into a less ideal configuration. Or sometimes, a patient can suffer an injury that shifts things around after a prior rhinoplasty. Both Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng have extensive experience in performing challenging revision rhinoplasty cases, with nearly 40 years of experience between them. Our doctors’ expertise in revision rhinoplasty allows them to address complex issues with precision and care.
Rhinoplasty Cast Removal
Cast Removal and Discussion with Patients 1 Week after Surgery
What Are the Benefits of Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a highly personalized procedure that can offer both aesthetic and functional nasal improvements. For many patients, it provides a renewed sense of self and a more harmonious facial appearance. Benefits offered by this procedure include:
- Improved self-confidence – Reshaping the nose to better suit your facial features can lead to a significant boost in self-esteem and comfort in social or professional settings.
- Enhanced facial symmetry – By refining the proportions of the nose, rhinoplasty can create better balance among facial features, enhancing overall attractiveness and harmony.
- Improved nasal function – In addition to cosmetic changes, rhinoplasty can address internal structural issues that impair airflow, helping patients breathe more easily.
- Improved sleep quality – Correcting breathing obstructions through functional rhinoplasty can lead to better airflow at night, reducing snoring and promoting more restful sleep with better oxygen levels for improved health.
- Correction of structural abnormality – Whether due to congenital issues, trauma, or previous surgery, rhinoplasty can correct deviations, asymmetries, or other irregularities to restore both form and function.
Am I a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Men and women who are in good physical health and would like to improve the appearance or function of their noses may be good candidates for rhinoplasty. Female patients should be at least 15 or 16 years old, and males should be at least 16 or 17 years old, at which point the vast majority of nasal growth has been completed. Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng believe that nasal surgery should not be performed before the completion of nasal growth because it may result in developmental abnormalities of the nose.
Another consideration for young adults interested in rhinoplasty is their sports and athletic schedule and career. One of the most common reasons Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng perform rhinoplasty is for patients who developed nasal deformities after a sports-related injury. Young athletes participating in contact sports at a competitive high school or college level may want to consider delaying their rhinoplasty surgery until after their season to avoid re-injuring the nose.
At our practice in Philadelphia, we understand the importance of achieving natural-looking results that enhance your unique facial features. Our team is committed to providing comprehensive and personalized care throughout your rhinoplasty journey, from the initial consultation to the post-operative follow-ups. During your consultation, our skilled facial plastic surgeons will evaluate your needs and goals to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for rhinoplasty.
Jennifer’s Rhinoplasty Testimonial
What Does the Rhinoplasty Consultation Involve?
Before your nose surgery, you will meet with one of our facial plastic surgeons to discuss your goals and concerns, and they will assess your face. They will examine the internal and external nasal structures to determine what changes are possible and how to best create the most aesthetically pleasing result. Our doctor will use computer imaging to show you the changes that are possible and to help determine your surgical goal. Once they gain a thorough understanding of your needs, Dr. Pontell or Dr. Weng will give you more details about the recommendations for your procedure.
What Can I Expect in the Rhinoplasty Procedure?
There are two distinct techniques used in rhinoplasty; the open technique and the closed technique.
Open Rhinoplasty Technique
This approach involves making a small incision on the columella – the strip of tissue between the nostrils. Through this incision, our doctor gains access to the underlying structures of the nose, allowing for precise reshaping and refinement. The open technique is especially beneficial when significant and complicated changes to the nasal structure are necessary, or with more complicated revision rhinoplasties.2 Most of Dr. Pontell’s and Dr. Weng’s work is performed using the open technique. The tiny external incision heals imperceptibly in the vast majority of cases.
Closed Rhinoplasty Technique
The closed technique is another option for rhinoplasty. With this method, all incisions are made inside the nostrils, eliminating any visible scarring. While the closed technique may be more suitable for patients who require less extensive modifications, our doctor can still achieve remarkable outcomes by accessing and reshaping the nasal structures through these hidden incisions.
Additional Considerations
Cartilage grafts from the nasal septum, ear, or rib may be used during surgery. Synthetic materials are occasionally used to augment the nasal bridge. Additionally, Dr. Pontell or Dr. Weng may recommend the addition of a chin implant in some rhinoplasty cases to balance out the profile of patients with a weak chin. They will thoroughly discuss your treatment plan with you before surgery.
Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng make every effort to ensure that the rhinoplasty results look natural and aim to achieve your desired outcome as much as possible.
Where Will My Rhinoplasty Be Performed?
Dr. Pontell and Dr. Weng perform rhinoplasty in fully accredited hospitals and surgery centers in the Main Line and Philadelphia area that are equipped with the latest surgical technologies. They may perform limited adjustment rhinoplasties in our private office operating room using only local anesthesia.
What Can I Expect During Rhinoplasty Recovery?
Rhinoplasty recovery is a gradual process. Most patients feel comfortable returning to work or non-physical daily activities within 7–10 days. In the first few days after surgery, it’s normal to experience some swelling, bruising around the eyes, and mild discomfort, which can typically be controlled with prescribed medication. A nasal splint is usually placed to support the new shape of the nose and is removed within about a week. While the majority of visible swelling subsides within six weeks, it is important to note that subtle swelling can take up to a year to fully resolve.
During the initial recovery period, it’s important to keep your head elevated, avoid strenuous activities, and follow all post-operative instructions provided by our surgeon. Breathing through the nose may be limited at first due to internal swelling, but this typically improves as healing progresses.
Final results should become more defined over the course of 6 to 12 months. Our surgical team will monitor your healing and guide you through each stage to ensure the smoothest, most successful recovery possible.
Rhinoplasty Timeline
- Before surgery:
- Avoid aspirin, ibuprofen and other anti-inflammatory NSAIDS, fish oil, and most supplements for three weeks before surgery. Get a good night’s sleep and do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before surgery. Wear a zip-up or button-up shirt (so you don’t have to pull anything over your nose after surgery).
- Immediate Post Op:
- Wake up in the recovery room. Usually after 45 minutes to 1 hour, you will be discharged and your family member or friend can drive you home.
- 1st Day At Home:
- You will have some bleeding from your nose and swelling around your eyes will develop, but pain is almost always described as minimal. Your nose will feel stuffy and congested. You will be taking oral antibiotics and applying antibiotic ointment to the sutures.
- 2nd Day:
- The bleeding will stop and our doctor will see you in the office to clean any dried blood. You will start squirting saline spray into the nose.
- 1 Week:
- The cast is removed and suture removal starts. About ½ of the sutures are removed at this time.
- 2 Weeks:
- The rest of the sutures come out.
- 6 Weeks:
- The swelling has decreased significantly and you will typically have a good idea of what the result will be.
- 3 Months:
- The swelling continues to gradually resolve.
- 6 Months:
- You will see more of the final shape of the nose as swelling continues to resolve and more definition becomes apparent.
- 1 Year:
- The swelling has resolved and you will see the final result.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost in Philadelphia?
The cost of rhinoplasty typically starts at about $12,000-$17,000 at our practice; however, the total price of this procedure can vary depending on several factors. Components that will be taken into account include:
- The surgical technique utilized
- Anesthesia requirements
- The extent and complexity of the surgery
- Fees for the surgeon and use of the surgical facility
Each patient’s treatment plan is unique, which often makes the total cost of rhinoplasty different for each patient. At our practice, we believe in providing our patients with comprehensive and personalized care, ensuring that their aesthetic goals are met. Detailed information about the cost of rhinoplasty will be provided after your customized treatment plan is created during your consultation. Because rhinoplasty is tailored to the unique needs and goals of each patient, an accurate price estimate can only be given following a thorough in-person evaluation. Once your surgical plan is finalized, our team will provide a comprehensive cost breakdown that reflects all aspects of the procedure. To help make rhinoplasty more accessible, our practice offers a variety of flexible payment options, including financing through trusted third-party healthcare lenders. These programs allow eligible patients to pay for their rhinoplasty procedure in manageable installments over time.
Can I Get a Rhinoplasty Without Surgery?
Yes—non-surgical rhinoplasty, sometimes called a “liquid nose job,” is a minimally invasive alternative to traditional surgery. A non-surgical rhinoplasty is performed by injecting fillers such as Restylane® or JUVÉDERM® in the nose to smooth out irregularities, dorsal humps, and asymmetries. The nasal airway and breathing are not altered in any way in a non-surgical rhinoplasty. The goal is to create an illusion of a better shape of the nose by adding filler material. Non-surgical rhinoplasty cannot improve breathing, and it cannot make a larger nose smaller; however, it can create the illusion of more refined details. These changes can last about one year.
| These issues can be repaired by surgical rhinoplasty: | These concerns may be addressed with liquid rhinoplasty using injectable fillers: |
|---|---|
Bulbous (overly round) tip | Overly small or pinched tip |
Boxy tip | Ptotic (droopy) tip |
Overly small or pinched tip | Asymmetric nose |
Ptotic (droopy) tip | Crooked nose |
Asymmetric nose | Overly long nose |
Crooked nose | Nasal dorsal hump |
Overly large nose | Low bridge (saddle nose) |
Wide nose | |
Overly long nose | |
Nasal dorsal hump | |
Low bridge (saddle nose) | |
Wide nostrils | |
Deviated septum | |
Nasal fracture (broken nose) | |
Nasal obstruction |
A personalized consultation can help determine whether this approach is appropriate for your goals and facial anatomy.
Additional Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty Surgery
What Is Discomfort Like After A Rhinoplasty?
After surgery, most patients report mild discomfort, most of which is experienced in the first couple of days. There will be some bruising and swelling, which is normal. You will need to sleep with your head elevated, and in the early stages, the nose will feel stuffy. As the swelling diminishes and breathing is restored, most people say that the recovery was easier than expected.
What Is Scarring Like After A Rhinoplasty?
The scar from rhinoplasty surgery is extremely minimal. With open rhinoplasty, the scar will span across the columella, which is the area of skin between the nostrils. When the incision is closed correctly, the scar is not noticeable at all. With a closed rhinoplasty, there are no outer incisions and, therefore, no visible scars.
When Can I Resume Normal Activities After A Rhinoplasty?
Most patients feel comfortable going out in public by around day nine. Patients can return to work within one to two weeks and resume more strenuous physical activity after two to three weeks. Swelling will continue to subside, and the shape of the nose will refine over the following months. Most of the swelling is gone by the 5th or 6th week.
How Long Will It Take For Me To See My Final Rhinoplasty Results?
It may take up to a year for all residual swelling to resolve.
Will my voice change after rhinoplasty?
You may have heard stories about celebrities—like Barbara Streisand—who, when it was recommended to have a rhinoplasty, chose against it for fear it would alter their beautiful singing voice. This is extremely unlikely to be the case. During the initial post-operative period, while the nose is swollen, there may be a hyponasal sound to the voice, but that usually returns to normal once swelling subsides.
Medical References
- Fichman, Matias, and Ignacio T. Piedra Buena. “Rhinoplasty.” PubMed, StatPearls Publishing, 2020, www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK558970/.
- Barrett, Dane, et al. “Understanding Approaches to the Dorsal Hump.” Facial Plastic Surgery, vol. 33, no. 02, Apr. 2017, pp. 125–132, https://doi.org/10.1055/s-0037-1598033
