Plastic, Reconstructive and Cosmetic Surgery
Rhinoplasty at UVM Health Network
Rhinoplasty (nose job) changes the size and shape of your nose. Some people get rhinoplasty to change the appearance of their nose, while others get the surgery to improve their breathing and nasal function.
Patients from across Vermont and northern New York come to University of Vermont Health Network for cosmetic surgery, including rhinoplasty. Our plastic surgeons are experts in their field and passionate about their work. They help determine the right look for you, then develop a plan to give you a beautiful, natural result.
As a leading plastic surgery program in the region, we offer:
- Advanced expertise: Our plastic surgeons have extensive training and experience in rhinoplasty. Many are academic leaders, training the next generation of experts in the latest techniques.
- Personalized approach: Our surgeons take time to get to know you and learn about your goals for surgery. We help you understand your surgical options so you can decide what’s right for you.
- Supportive team: Every team member works to support you through your cosmetic surgery journey. From your consultation to surgery and follow-up care, we are by your side with guidance and reassurance.
- Comfort and convenience: Your comfort, safety and privacy are top priorities for our team. With offices in Vermont and northern New York and digital health options for some follow-up visits, we make it easy to access care.
What to Expect
Consultation
Your first appointment is a one-hour consultation with one of our plastic surgeons. We use this visit to review your medical history and discuss your options. Your surgeon will help you design a new nose based on your desired change and existing facial features.
We want you to take the time you need without feeling rushed or pressured. If you would like to have a second conversation before scheduling surgery, we are happy to meet again to help you decide the right approach for you.
Factors that may affect your eligibility for rhinoplasty include:
- Age: We usually recommend waiting until after age 18 to ensure your bones have stopped growing.
- Current nicotine use: Smoking and the use of other nicotine products can increase your risk of infection after surgery and slow your healing.
Rhinoplasty Surgery
We perform rhinoplasty surgery in an operating room using general anesthesia, so you are asleep during the procedure. Our surgeons perform open rhinoplasty surgery through an incision across the thin band of tissue separating your nostrils (columella).
Rhinoplasty Recovery Time
Most patients can go home after surgery. Before you leave the hospital, we provide:
- Instructions on how to care for your surgical incision
- Medication prescriptions to manage pain or aid healing
- Dressings and other supplies
- An appointment for your first follow-up visit, usually one week after surgery
You may have splints and gauze packing inside your nose for the first week. Soreness, swelling and bruising are common. Most people can go back to work after one to two weeks and resume typical activity between six and eight weeks post-surgery. You may notice swelling on and off for up to one year as your nose heals into its new shape.
Open rhinoplasty leaves a small scar under the tip of your nose. The scar may look red at first but will fade over time. Your care team will give you strategies for minimizing the appearance of the scar.
