What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that corrects the nose shape to improve its appearance and help the patient breathe without obstruction. During this operation, the doctor makes incisions to access the bones and cartilage that support the nose. These tissues are then modified by removing unwanted elements and smoothing certain areas. On average, rhinoplasty takes 2-3 hours as an outpatient procedure.
The surgery time can vary based on the technique used and the extent of corrections needed. Let’s explore the standard procedure for a comprehensive adjustment of nose shape.
Rhinoplasty Surgery Times: Step by Step
Anesthesia (15-30 Minutes)
The rhinoplasty procedure begins with anesthesia, which ensures that the patient remains comfortable and pain-free throughout the plastic surgery. A trained specialist delivers anesthetic medication through an injection and a facemask to put the patient fully to sleep. This typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes, depending on the patient’s health profile and the techniques used. Local anesthesia with sedation is also possible in small operations. However, most patients prefer being fully unconscious during rhinoplasty.
The anesthesiologist carefully monitors vital signs, including heart rate, blood pressure, and oxygen levels, throughout the procedure to ensure the optimal level of sedation. Once the patient is properly anesthetized, the doctor can begin the rhinoplasty operation.
Incisions (10 minutes)
The surgeon creates incisions to access the bones and cartilage of the nose. During an open rhinoplasty, the cut is made across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils). This allows the surgeon to lift the skin of the nose and fully see the underlying structure. This columella incision adds about 10 minutes to the procedure.
In a closed rhinoplasty, the cuts are made entirely inside the nostrils. While this approach is less invasive, it provides lower visibility and makes the nose surgery more challenging. The closed incision also adds approximately 10 minutes. Regardless of the approach, professional surgeons like Dr. Zarrabi make clean, precise cuts that will heal well and leave minimal scarring.
Reshaping of Tissues (1-2 Hours)
This is the lengthiest part of the rhinoplasty procedure, often taking 1-2 hours. The surgeon carefully lifts the skin to expose the underlying bone and cartilage. These structures are then sculpted, trimmed, and reshaped to achieve the desired aesthetic results. Standard techniques include:
Rasping or filing down nasal bone humps
Trimming cartilage to refine the tip
Narrowing wide nostrils by removing wedge-shaped pieces of cartilage
Grafting cartilage from the nasal septum or ears to reinforce or build up certain areas
The deviated septum, if present, is also corrected at this stage by removing and repositioning portions of cartilage and bone. The surgeon takes great care during tissue reshaping to preserve function and structural integrity while enhancing the nose’s appearance. Meticulous sculpting and restructuring of the delicate nasal anatomy is truly an art form performed by skilled rhinoplasty surgeons like Dr. Zarrabi.
Closing Incisions (20-30 Minutes)
At the end of this cosmetic or reconstructive surgery, the doctor closes the incisions. The cut in the columella (between the nostrils) is covered with very fine sutures. The surgeon carefully aligns the tissues and uses tiny stitches for the best cosmetic results.
Other incisions on the nostrils or septum are also meticulously closed up. This part of the nasal surgery takes around 20-30 minutes. In some cases, the doctor may use non-dissolvable sutures, which are removed after about a week of recovery.
Proper incision closure ensures minimal scarring and beautiful nose healing. The plastic surgeon also applies sterile splints and bandages to protect the nose as it starts recovering from cosmetic rhinoplasty.
Total Time: 2-3 Hours
When you add these procedures, you will see that rhinoplasty surgeries usually take 2-3 hours. The length depends on the extent of corrections. Some patients need minor adjustments of cartilage, while others require complex operations with grafting and reshaping of nasal bones. The length of treatment may further increase if a person wants to have some add-on procedures, such as blepharoplasty or neck surgery. However, in most cases, the nose job takes nearly 2 hours or less.
Is Closed Rhinoplasty Surgery Faster Than Open Rhinoplasty?
Many patients wonder if closed rhinoplasty is faster than the open approach. The short answer is – it depends. Several factors determine a procedure’s time, regardless of the technique used.
Closed rhinoplasty tends to be a shorter surgery on average. This is because the incisions are made inside the nose, so there is no external cut to close. However, the time savings are usually modest. Both procedures typically take anywhere from 1 to 3 hours total.
The main determinant is the complexity and extent of the changes that must be made. More complex revisions or extensive reshaping of the nasal structure will require more surgical time, while minor tweaks may be quicker. The surgeon’s skill and experience can also impact speed, as expert rhinoplasty specialists like Dr. Zarrabi typically work more efficiently.
While closed rhinoplasty may be slightly faster, the surgeon selects the technique that will give them the best access and visibility to achieve the desired outcome. The average speed difference of 10-30 minutes is not the determining factor. An experienced surgeon will recommend either closed or open approach based on what is right for the individual patient’s anatomy and goals.
Is Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty Surgery Faster Than Regular Rhinoplasty?
Ultrasonic rhinoplasty is a relatively new technique that uses piezoelectric devices to reshape the nasal bones and cartilage. It allows doctors to make precise cuts and fractures without damaging the surrounding soft tissues.
Based on the experience of our expert surgeon, Dr. Zarrabi, ultrasonic rhinoplasty can reduce operating time compared to traditional techniques. The precision of the piezo instruments increases efficiency. Surgeons do not need to spend as much time carefully sculpting or trimming the nasal anatomy.
Finally, we must remember that piezoelectric devices must be used meticulously and carefully to achieve higher efficiency. If you are interested in this technique, we recommend contacting Dr. Zarrabi. He is an experienced professional who has used ultrasonic technology for many years. Dr. Zarrabi has been able to decrease the procedure time and make it much safer for patients.
Conclusion
Rhinoplasty is a transformative procedure that can enhance nasal function and appearance. While cosmetic surgery typically takes 2-3 hours, the entire journey to your new visage involves careful planning, skilled execution, and patient recovery.
Using our comprehensive guide for choosing an experienced surgeon, you can confidently approach your rhinoplasty. The time invested in this procedure is an investment in yourself, leading to improved self-esteem, better breathing, and a more harmonious facial appearance. Whether you’re considering rhinoplasty for cosmetic or functional reasons, the results can be life-changing, making the time spent well worth it!