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The goal of Rhinoplasty is to improve the functionality and/or shape of the nose while bringing symmetry and balance to the face.
What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape the nose, is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. It can be performed to improve one’s appearance, but also for reconstructive purposes, which includes correcting birth defects or breathing problems. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip, remove a hump on the bridge, straighten the nose, improve breathing, narrow the span of the nostrils or change the angle between the nose and upper lip. Much can be done to improve your nasal appearance.A nose job can improve your appearance, and possibly boost your self-esteem, even with the slightest alteration. Our office is located just 2 miles away from North Bethesda and 5 miles away from Potomac & Rockville.
Recovery:
1-2 weeks
Cost:
Starts at $10K
Results:
1 year
Reasons to Get a Rhinoplasty Procedure
People may want to get nasal surgery for a number of reasons, but these concerns typically fall under two categories: functional concerns or cosmetic desires. In some cases, people experience both functional and cosmetic nasal issues in which case both can be improved with one surgery.
- Functional Rhinoplasty
- Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
See a more detailed explanation below.
Functional Rhinoplasty
A very common functional nasal problems are difficulty breathing. This can be caused by enlarged turbinates, deviated septum, or issues deep in the nasal airway. The aforementioned conditions can be present from birth or from conditions that appear later in life, such as injury or cancer or the nasal skin. Previous nasal surgeries that were botched could also cause disrupted breathing. Trimming an excessive amount of cartilage can “pinch” the nose.
There are a number of factors that cause irregular breathing, but your surgeon will take extra special care while performing an examination during your consultation in order to determine the best personalized functional Rhinoplasty procedure. Not only will it leave you with a beautiful nose, but one that you can breathe with ease from.
Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
Cosmetic deformities of the nose can hinder your lifestyle as sometimes they can be embarrassing. These misshaping can appear as a wide base of the nose, drooping tip, a dorsal bump, as well as varying post-traumatic deformities. Cartilage or bone can be shaved from a large nose to give it even in slope. In opposition, if you feel that your nose is too small, cartilage can be harvested from a donor location (ear or rib graft) and used to add stature of your liking to your nose. Prior nasal surgeries can leave you with less than desirable results, in which case one of our Rhinoplasty specialists will listen to your every last nasal concern during your consultation to ensure that this time you receive your aesthetic wishes.
Rhinoplasty requires several preliminary tasks to be completed prior to your surgery.
Candidates
Men and women who are seeking a Rhinoplasty procedure have an issue with either functionality or cosmetic concern. Candidates for Rhinoplasty typically seek to:
- Reduce or increase the size of the nose
- Changes size and shape of the nasal tip
- Remove humps on the bridge
- Straighten the nose
- Improve breathing
- Narrow in the span of the nostrils
- Change the angle between the nose and upper lip
It is important that facial growth is complete before considering nasal surgery, which is customarily post-teen years. These patients much are non-smokers and in good health.Keeping true to your ethnic identity is sometimes a concern, in which case an Ethnic Rhinoplasty can be performed. This is where the functionality and/or cosmetic look of your nose is enhanced while your uniqueness is maintained. The goal of Rhinoplasty is not to change the look of your features but enhance their beauty.
Consultation
When considering Rhinoplasty, there are some things that your doctor will want to go over with you. This will include the structure of your nasal bones and cartilage, the shape of your face, the thickness of your skin, and your age. Although a lot of teenagers may request information about nose surgery, most plastic surgeons prefer to wait until their growth spurt has ended.
One of our board-certified surgeons will perform a thorough examination of your nose, and with your concerns in mind, determine the best-personalized procedure plan to give you optimal results. You will be shown before and after photos of patients with similar cases to give you a general idea of possible results; it is important to remember results do vary. Bringing a picture of your desired results is very helpful.
You will be asked about medical history and any past surgeries you have undergone. Your surgeon may ask you to adjust or discontinue routine medications. Any remaining questions, including pricing inquiries, can be addressed at this time.
At Cosmetic Surgery Associates, we understand that choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery is not an easy decision; therefore, we try to make the process as easy as possible. One of our plastic surgeons will assist you through the entire procedure, from the pre-operative consultation to the recovery process.
Preparation
Your surgeon will ask you to completed specific medical examinations and tests. You will need to pick up prescriptions for antibiotics and/or pain medications ahead of time so you have them readily available following your procedure. Avoiding anti-inflammatory drugs and herbal supplements for a few weeks is important as they increase bleeding. You will also need to arrange for a friend or family member to drive you home as you will not be able to drive yourself. Further individual instructions may be given to ensure you receive the best results possible.
Types of Rhinoplasty
Primary
Primary Rhinoplasty is a term used for surgery that is performed on a nose for the very first time; no prior surgeries. The main objective of Primary Rhinoplasty is to amend all functional and cosmetic dislikes with just one procedure. The open or closed method can be used for Primary Rhinoplasty; your surgeon will be able to determine the optimal technique for you during your consultation.
Secondary
Secondary Rhinoplasty is a term used for surgery that is performed on the nose of a patient who has already had one or several prior nasal surgeries. Sometimes referred to as Revision Rhinoplasty, this surgery is meant to further alter the shape of the nose for cosmetics, functionality, or both since the patient was displeased with their initial results.
How is Rhinoplasty Performed
Rhinoplasty procedures are performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis.
There are two incision options; the one used will be decided during your consultation. Each has its merits, so your surgeon will choose the method he believes will work best to achieve your specific desired results.
Open Procedure
The incision for the open procedure is made in between the nostrils through the tissue. Nasal cartilage can be accessed with ease since this incision allows skin and soft tissue to be lifted. Cartilage can then be appropriately trimmed into the desired contour. If additional cartilage or structure is needed it can be harvested from an ear or rib graft. Skin and soft tissue are then redraped and the incisions are sutured closed. Any resulting scarring is extremely small and will diminish over time.
Closed Procedure
The incision for the closed procedure is made inside the nose as opposed to externally. The same steps are followed as the open procedure except the skin is not lifted. Scars are not visible, there is less swelling, no damage to the tip of the nose, and the procedure length is shorter.
Recovery
This procedure usually takes one to two hours, depending on the amount of the surgery being performed. After your procedure is over, your surgeon will apply a nasal splint which will stay on for roughly a week. It is best to take a bath as opposed to showering while you wear the splint to avoid water getting on it. Any discomfort can easily be controlled with prescribed pain medication.
Refrain from making over-the-top facial expressions during your recovery period. Do not blow your nose until your surgeon tells you otherwise; this can mess up your results and you can potentially hurt yourself. Contacts are recommended over glasses during this time, but if you must wear glasses you might consider taping them to your forehead so you avoid resting them on your nose.
You are usually able to return to work or school after 5-7 days. Bruising and swelling underneath the eyes can last up to 10 days, but this is normal and will subside on its own or with the help of gentle ice application. Steer clear of strenuous activities for about a month. You are able to see nasal improvement once the splint comes off, but the best results can be seen in 6 months. Improved breathing can be noticed almost immediately.
Schedule a Rhinoplasty Consultation
We encourage all patients interested in rhinoplasty surgery to set up a one on one personalized rhinoplasty consultation with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons. Our office is located just 2 miles away from North Bethesda and 5 miles away from Potomac & Rockville. During the consultation, our surgeons will go over the procedure in more detail, answer any questions you have and determine if rhinoplasty is the best option to get the results you are looking for. Get in touch today to set up your consultation!
Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty) FAQs
Can a nose job make your nose smaller?
Can I sleep on my side after rhinoplasty?
Can nasal polyps change shape of nose?
Can rhinoplasty help sinus problems?
Can you die from rhinoplasty?
Do nose jobs last forever?
Do spreader grafts widen the nose?
Does deviated septum surgery change your nose?
Does your voice change after rhinoplasty?
How bad is nose job recovery?
How do I prepare for a nose job?
How long are you swollen after rhinoplasty?
How long do splints stay in after septoplasty?
How long does a nose job take to perform?
How long is recovery from rhinoplasty?
How should I sleep after nose surgery?
Is nose job permanent?
What are the side effects of rhinoplasty?
What is closed rhinoplasty?
What types of nose jobs are there?
Why do nose jobs collapse?
Will the tip of my nose get smaller after rhinoplasty?
Keshav Magge, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Honored as a Top Doctor by Bethesda Magazine and Washingtonian in both 2024 and 2025, Dr. Magge is recognized for his exceptional surgical skill, artistic precision, and patient-centered approach. A leading plastic surgeon in Bethesda, Maryland, he completed a fellowship in Craniofacial and Pediatric Plastic Surgery at Children’s National Medical Center in Washington, D.C., where he gained advanced expertise in facial rejuvenation and aesthetic surgery innovations.
Meet Dr. Magge
A. Dean Jabs, MD, PhD, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Jabs is an award-winning, board-certified plastic surgeon recognized nationally for his expertise in creating natural-looking results and his warm, compassionate approach to patient care. Trained in NY at Columbia University, he served in the US Army and has special expertise in facial rejuvenation. He has over 35 years of experience and has consistently been voted a top plastic surgeon by Washingtonian and Bethesda magazine.
Meet Dr. Jabs
Franklin D. Richards, MD, FACS
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Richards has been recognized as a Top Doctor by several prestigious organizations, including Castle Connolly, Consumers’ Research Council of America, and Washingtonian magazine. A leading plastic surgeon in Bethesda, Maryland, Dr. Richards is the past Chief of Plastic Surgery at Johns Hopkins Suburban Hospital. His expertise is in achieving natural results in facelift and eyelid surgery, with additional interests in cosmetic surgery of the breast and abdomen.
Meet Dr. Richards
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The staff was amazing and made me feel comfortable every step of the way.
Get it DONE! The staff was amazing and made me feel comfortable every step of the way. My results are amazing, and I conquered the biggest hurdle in this journey - picking the correct Doctor and team. No regrets. Thank you, CSA.
– verified patient
I have been going to CSA for over a year, and it’s always such a nice visit.
I have been going to CSA for over a year, and it's always such a nice visit. Super professional, and I always feel taken care of.
– verified patient
I AM SO HAPPY I FOUND COSMETIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES.
I had such an amazing overall experience at Cosmetic Surgery Associates. The staff is very pleasant. I had my first invasive cosmetic procedure done back in September, and the final results are amazing. I LOVE IT. I'm so much happier with my body now. HIGHLY RECOMMEND. Prior to my surgery, I had been thinking about this for a while, and I'm so happy I made the decision to go through with it. I AM SO HAPPY I FOUND COSMETIC SURGERY ASSOCIATES. HIGHLY HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!
– verified patient
Their equipment, skill level, and expertise are superb.
This practice is truly outstanding! Their equipment, skill level, and expertise are superb. The staff is extremely friendly, kind, and professional; they make you feel comfortable as soon as you walk in the door.
– verified patient
Every single person in their office makes you feel so welcomed and comfortable the moment you step into the office.
Every single person in their office makes you feel so welcomed and comfortable the moment you step into the office. The day of my surgery, the staff took amazing care of me and went above and beyond to calm my nerves, talk me through it, and made it such a great experience. I highly recommend this office. I can't thank them enough for all that they did for me!
– verified patient
My experience there was beyond 5 stars.
My experience there was beyond 5 stars. From taking the appointment to post surgery. Even now after 10 months, the follow ups are outstanding. The whole staff took great care of me and the results are what I expected. Thank you for everything. Don't think twice and use this clinic if you want best in class service and the best result.
– verified patient
All of the staff were highly knowledgeable, and I received consistent direction and guidance from all of the staff.
Literally every staff member I interacted with from the front desk down to the surgical team gave stellar customer service and truly made me feel comfortable. My sister even felt the warm energy from the staff after meeting them the morning of surgery. All of the staff were highly knowledgeable, and I received consistent direction and guidance from all of the staff. I would highly recommend Cosmetic Surgery Associates to anyone seeking a cosmetic procedure!
– verified patient
I can’t stress enough how great this whole experience has been.
I can't stress enough how great this whole experience has been. Not only did he make me feel comfortable in my body, but 10x more confident. His work is truly beautiful. 100% recommend!!
– verified patient
I feel very comfortable and look better in my clothes.
The staff are professional, caring, and pay attention to detail. Almost 10 months post op. The results exceeded my expectations. I feel very comfortable and look better in my clothes. I'm so grateful. I highly recommend this practice.
– verified patient
The staff was wonderful, respectful, accommodating, and very knowledgeable!
The staff was wonderful, respectful, accommodating, and very knowledgeable! The facility was very clean and one of the staff members helped me work the coffee machine for a fresh cup of coffee!
– verified patient
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