March 17, 2025

What is Rhinoplasty?

Many people are aware of the procedure known as rhinoplasty, sometimes referred to as a “nose job” because of pop-culture references. But there is more to this plastic surgery that isn’t commonly covered. If you’re considering undergoing a rhinoplasty, here are some surprising facts that could add to your decision-making process.

Not All Rhinoplasty Involves Scars Or Breaking Bones

This procedure can be performed by using either an “open” or “closed” technique. With open rhinoplasty, an incision must be made in the section of skin between the nostrils, known as the columella, to access internal structures. While this incision is small and discrete, it will still require healing, and there is the possibility of visible scarring. Once the internal area is accessed, depending on the type of rhinoplasty, bones or cartilage could be broken or shaved to sculpt the nose.

In contrast, a closed rhinoplasty is performed with no external incisions and is a less invasive approach to this surgery but still offers significant transformation. With a closed surgery, adjustments are made delicately through the nostrils; thus, no scarring will be visible. This technique also means limited changes to internal structures, so recovery is typically a bit easier. A skilled surgeon can address concerns like asymmetry, minor humps, or bridge refinement, as well as a droopy or bulbous tip, all through a closed rhinoplasty.

Breathing Issues And Injuries Can Be Addressed With Rhinoplasty

Along with cosmetic considerations, rhinoplasty can also address issues with nasal airflow or repair problems caused by a broken nose or other medical conditions. Those with a deviated septum, a condition where the center line of bone and cartilage is off-center or uneven, may experience poor airflow and breathing problems in one or both nostrils. With rhinoplasty, medically known as septoplasty, which includes fixing a deviated septum, airflow problems can be fixed for better breathing during sleep and exercise, which can improve overall quality of life.

For patients dealing with broken bones or cartilage due to injury or those with certain congenital defects, rhinoplasty can restore the appearance of their nose for a refined and balanced result. Whether a repair due to trauma or correcting what might be a lifelong abnormality, patients who can achieve an improved aesthetic often experience an incredible boost in confidence and renewed well-being.

Rhinoplasty and Potential Voice Changes

While rhinoplasty primarily focuses on reshaping the external nose, it's important to understand that it can sometimes lead to subtle changes in the sound of the voice. These changes occur because the procedure affects the nasal passages, which play a role in vocal resonance.

Short-Term Effects

In the immediate postoperative period, swelling within the nasal passages is common. This swelling can result in a temporary stuffy or nasal-sounding voice. This is a normal and expected side effect that typically resolves as the swelling subsides.

Long-Term Considerations

Although less frequent, rhinoplasty can potentially cause subtle long-term alterations to the voice. This is because the surgery modifies the airflow pathways within the nose. However, it's crucial to understand that the voice itself will not change, but the resonance may be affected. This means you won't develop a completely different voice, but the quality of your sound might experience a slight shift, potentially sounding less stuffy or nasally than before.

Professional Voice Users

For individuals whose careers rely heavily on their voice, such as singers, actors, public speakers, or presenters, these potential changes are particularly relevant. It's essential to discuss this possibility with your plastic surgeon during the consultation.

Minimizing Vocal Impact

Your surgeon will strive to minimize any impact on your vocal resonance by carefully considering the internal nasal structures during the procedure. The extent to which this can be achieved depends on the individual's anatomy and the primary goals of the rhinoplasty.

Open Communication

If you are concerned about potential voice changes, open communication with your surgeon is paramount. Discuss your concerns thoroughly, and your surgeon can provide personalized advice and address any questions you may have.

There Are Many Different Types of Rhinoplasty

Since many people have heard about rhinoplasty primarily through pop culture, they may not realize that this is an incredibly customizable surgery and is far from one-size-fits-all. For example, rhinoplasty can be tailored specifically to match women versus men for a more feminine or masculine aesthetic. Patients may want to address a variety of concerns, including a dorsal hump, bulbous tip, droopy tip, hook nose, crooked nose, and many others–all of which can be specifically addressed for the ideal result. In the case of ethnic rhinoplasty, experienced plastic surgeons can work to customize nasal features while preserving desired ethnic subtleties.

Along with aesthetic options, rhinoplasty can also be performed using different techniques to enhance results. This procedure may be performed open or closed based on the specific aesthetic and surgical needs of the patient. Bone or cartilage grafts could be used from other parts of the body if there is a need to restore structure or volume. There are also exciting non-surgical options that can provide results that closely resemble surgical improvement.

Bonus Fact: Some Plastic Surgeons Aren’t As Qualified To Perform Rhinoplasty

With delicate underlying anatomy and many different paths to take, it’s important to work with a surgeon who has performed many rhinoplasties and has achieved the type of results that you’re looking for when it comes to your nose and facial profile. While any board-certified plastic surgeon could technically perform this surgery, specific and extensive experience with rhinoplasty and specialized training in head and neck surgery or otolaryngology are crucial to achieving optimal results. With double board certification in both facial plastic surgery and head and neck surgery, Beverly Hills plastic surgeon Dr. Nima Shemirani has unmatched rhinoplasty experience and is dedicated to premier patient care. Book your exclusive rhinoplasty consultation today.