Rhinoplasty
Aesthetic and functional nose reshaping that achieves natural harmony with your facial features.
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that modifies the shape, size, and proportion of the nose to achieve harmonious balance with the rest of your facial features. Beyond aesthetic improvement, it can also correct functional issues such as a deviated septum that impairs breathing.
Dr. William Geldres employs advanced open and closed rhinoplasty techniques, selecting the most appropriate approach based on each patient's anatomy and goals. His philosophy prioritizes natural results that respect the patient's unique facial identity.
Ideal Candidates
Rhinoplasty is recommended for individuals who wish to:
- Reduce or increase the overall size of the nose
- Correct asymmetries or nasal deviation
- Refine the nasal tip or bridge
- Improve breathing due to nasal obstruction
- Address trauma-related nasal deformities
Patients should have realistic expectations, good overall health, and completed facial development (typically age 17-18).
The Procedure
Surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes 2 to 3 hours. Depending on the case, Dr. Geldres may use an open approach (with a small incision on the columella) or a closed approach (internal incisions only). The nasal cartilage and bone are reshaped to achieve the desired form.
In cases requiring reconstruction, cartilage grafts from the patient's own tissue may be used to strengthen the structure and ensure long-lasting results.
Recovery
After surgery, a nasal splint is placed and removed after 7 days. Swelling and bruising gradually subside over the first two weeks. Patients can return to work within 7-10 days and resume physical activity after 4-6 weeks.
Final results become apparent between 6 and 12 months post-surgery as the tissues fully settle into their new shape.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long is recovery after rhinoplasty?
Initial recovery takes 7-10 days, during which the nasal splint is removed. Residual swelling gradually subsides, and final results are visible between 6 and 12 months after surgery.
Does rhinoplasty leave visible scars?
With the closed technique, all incisions are internal, leaving no external scars. The open technique involves a small incision on the columella that becomes virtually invisible once healed.
What is the minimum age for rhinoplasty?
We recommend waiting until age 17-18 for women and 18-19 for men, when nasal development is complete. There is no upper age limit as long as the patient is in good health.
Can rhinoplasty fix breathing problems?
Yes. Functional rhinoplasty corrects deviated septum, turbinate hypertrophy, and other structural issues that impair breathing, combining aesthetic and functional improvements in a single procedure.