Rhinoplasty in Reading PA
Redefine the shape, size, & contour of your nose
Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape the nose, is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures, here in Berks County and across the country. Whether you’re concerned about the appearance of your nose or experiencing functional issues that affect your breathing, rhinoplasty can provide both aesthetic and medical benefits.
Why Consider Nose Reshaping Surgery
Rhinoplasty is a nuanced procedure that can help address the following aesthetic and functional nasal concerts:
- Reduce or increase the size of your nose
- Change the shape of the tip or the bridge
- Narrow the span of the nostrils
- Change the angle between your nose and your upper lip
- Correct a deviated septum or other breathing problems
- Repair damage from injury or trauma
- Address congenital defects or asymmetry
- Refine previous rhinoplasty results (revision rhinoplasty)
Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look. If you’re physically healthy, have realistic expectations, and are bothered by the appearance or function of your nose, you may be a good candidate.
Ideal candidates:
- Are in good overall health and don’t have medical conditions that impair healing
- Are non-smokers or willing to quit smoking before and after surgery
- Have completed facial growth (typically age 16-17 for girls, slightly older for boys)
- Have realistic expectations about what rhinoplasty can achieve
- Are seeking improvement for personal reasons, not to please others
Our surgeons perform rhinoplasty to meet aesthetic goals, to reconstruct the nose after injury, or to correct birth defects or breathing problems.
“Although Berks Plastic Surgery is an hour away from my home, I decided to go here after researching many doctors and reading reviews. It took 2 consultations and a lot of questions for me to make my final decision on having multiple surgeries. Everyone was professional and helpful, not to mention very patient. The procedures went great and I couldn’t be more satisfied with the results. Highly recommend Berks Plastic Surgery.”
–5-star Google review
Types of Rhinoplasty Procedures
Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
Focused on improving the aesthetic appearance of your nose to create better facial harmony and boost your confidence.
Functional Rhinoplasty
Addresses structural issues that impair breathing, such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or internal valve collapse.
Revision Rhinoplasty
Corrects or improves results from a previous nose surgery. This is a more complex procedure that requires specialized expertise.
Ethnic Rhinoplasty
Respects and preserves your ethnic identity while refining nasal features to achieve your desired look.
Your Rhinoplasty Consultation
Your rhinoplasty consultation is an essential first step in your surgical journey. During this comprehensive meeting, you’ll discuss your aesthetic goals, learn about the surgical approach tailored to your needs, and gain a clear understanding of what to expect throughout the entire process—from preparation through recovery.
During your consultation, your surgeon will:
- Discuss your goals and concerns in detail
- Evaluate your nasal structure, skin type, and facial proportions
- Review your medical history and any medications you’re taking
- Examine both the external appearance and internal structure of your nose
- Take photographs for your medical record and surgical planning
- Explain the surgical technique that will best achieve your goals
- Discuss realistic expectations and potential outcomes
- Review the risks and benefits specific to your case
- Answer all of your questions
This is also your opportunity to learn about your surgeon’s qualifications, experience with rhinoplasty, and see before-and-after photos of previous patients.
What to Expect from Nose Reshaping Surgery
Depending on the goals of surgery, your surgeon performs nose surgery through slightly different procedures. During your consultation, you and your surgeon will have determined the specifics of your individual rhinoplasty procedure plan. The two main rhinoplasty incision techniques are open and closed.
Surgical Techniques
Open Rhinoplasty: A small incision is made across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), allowing the surgeon full visibility and access to the nasal structure. This approach is typically used for more complex reshaping.
Closed Rhinoplasty: All incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no visible scarring. This technique is often used for less extensive modifications.
Preparing for Nose Surgery
To help you prepare for the surgery and recovery, we will instruct you about:
- Medications to avoid (such as aspirin and certain anti-inflammatory drugs)
- Smoking cessation (at least 2-3 weeks before and after surgery)
- Alcohol consumption
- Arranging for help during your initial recovery
- Preparing your recovery space at home
- Washing your face and skincare routines
The Day of Surgery
All rhinoplasties are performed in our accredited, in-office operating suite. Surgery typically takes several hours, depending on the complexity of your procedure. It is important to note that, for your safety, our surgeons works exclusively with a qualified anesthesia provider.
During the procedure, your surgeon will:
- Make precise incisions according to the planned technique
- Reshape the bone and cartilage to achieve the desired contour
- Address any functional issues, such as a deviated septum
- Close incisions with fine sutures
After the procedure is complete, your nose will be secured and splinted, and you’ll rest while the initial effects of anesthesia wear off. Plan on taking about two days of rest before becoming active again; you may want to wait about a week before returning to work, depending on your profession. You will need about three weeks for full initial recovery.
Planning for Your Rhinoplasty Recovery
You may need someone to help you during the first few days of your recovery, since movement is discouraged. Activities that could result in injury should be avoided for six weeks (swimming, playing sports, and so on). Sexual activity, which can increase your blood pressure, should be avoided for about two weeks. You also must take care in washing your face. You can wear contact lenses, but eyeglasses should not be worn when the splint is off until instructed by your surgeon. Your doctor will check on the progress of your healing in regular follow-up visits. The healing process depends very much on you: it is key that you follow all instructions.
Risks and Complications
There are risks and possible complications associated with any surgery. A dull headache, numbness or an aching of the nose can occur after rhinoplasty. Some patients also experience sinusitis or have slower than normal healing. If you fail to keep your head elevated, sleep only on one side soon after surgery, don’t heed other recovery rules, or healing is not as expected, secondary surgery can become necessary. Rarely, infection (pain, redness, swelling), loss of smell, and even toxic shock syndrome can occur.
Our surgeons take great care to evaluate each patient individually. They will advise you of your own unique risk profile, and enable you to compare it with that of rhinoplasty candidates in general, before it’s determined whether you’re a good candidate for the procedure.
Rhinoplasty Recovery & Results Timeline
First 24-48 Hours:
- Rest with your head elevated at all times (even while sleeping)
- Apply cold compresses to reduce swelling
- Take prescribed pain medication as directed
- Expect some nasal congestion and need to breathe through your mouth
- Some bleeding or drainage is normal
Days 3-7:
- Swelling and bruising peak around day 3, then gradually improve
- You may experience mild discomfort but should not have severe pain
- Keep your head elevated as much as possible
- Your splint and any internal packing will typically be removed around day 5-7
- Many patients feel ready to return to work after about one week (depending on your profession)
Weeks 2-3:
- Most visible bruising and swelling will have subsided
- You can gradually resume light activities
- Avoid strenuous exercise, bending over, or heavy lifting
- Continue sleeping with your head elevated
Weeks 4-6:
- You can typically resume most normal activities, including careful exercise
- Avoid contact sports or activities that risk injury to your nose
- Swelling continues to decrease, and your new shape becomes more apparent
Months 3-12:
- Subtle swelling continues to resolve over the following months
- Your final results will gradually emerge over the course of a year
- The tip of the nose is the last area to fully refine
Why Choose Berks Plastic Surgery for Your Rhinoplasty?
- Board-Certified Expertise: Dr. Brian Reedy and Dr. Scott Lindsay hold advanced training in aesthetic and reconstructive procedures so that every patient receives the natural results, personalized planning, and attentive follow-up care that define the Berks Plastic Surgery experience.
- Personalized Approach: We understand that every nose is unique, and every patient has individual goals. Your procedure will be customized to achieve natural-looking results that complement your facial features.
- Comprehensive Care: From your initial consultation through your final follow-up visit, our team is dedicated to providing exceptional care and support throughout your rhinoplasty journey.
- Safety First: We work with qualified medical anesthesia providers and follow the highest safety standards in our accredited surgical facility.
- Customized Results: Our goal is to create subtle, harmonious improvements that enhance your appearance while maintaining your unique character.
Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty
How much does rhinoplasty cost in Reading, PA?
The cost of rhinoplasty varies depending on the complexity of your procedure, surgical technique, anesthesia fees, and facility costs. During your consultation, we’ll provide you with a detailed cost estimate. We also offer financing options as well to help you pay for your procedure in monthly installments.
Will insurance cover the cost of my rhinoplasty procedure?
Cosmetic rhinoplasty is considered elective and is typically not covered by insurance. However, functional rhinoplasty to correct breathing problems or structural issues—such as a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse—may be partially or fully covered by your insurance plan. Our team can help you understand your coverage and work with your insurance provider to determine what portion of your procedure may be eligible for coverage.
Are rhinoplasty results permanent?
Yes, rhinoplasty results are permanent. However, your nose will continue to age naturally along with the rest of your face. Significant trauma to the nose could also affect your results. Most patients are satisfied with their rhinoplasty results for a lifetime.
Will I have visible scars after rhinoplasty?
With closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are inside the nose, leaving no visible scarring. With open rhinoplasty, there is a small incision across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils), but this typically heals to a barely visible fine line. Your surgeon will discuss which approach is best for your goals.
How painful is rhinoplasty recovery?
You’ll experience more discomfort and pressure than sharp pain. Any pain can be managed effectively with prescribed medication. The nasal congestion and need to breathe through your mouth during the first week is often more bothersome than pain.
When can I see my final results?
You’ll notice a significant improvement once your splint is removed after about one week, but your nose will still be swollen. Most of the swelling subsides within the first few weeks, but subtle swelling—especially in the tip—can take up to a year to fully resolve. Your final, refined results will gradually emerge over 12-18 months.
Can rhinoplasty fix my breathing problems?
Yes! Functional rhinoplasty can correct structural issues that impair breathing, such as a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or collapsed nasal valves. Many patients choose to combine functional and cosmetic improvements in a single procedure.
What’s the difference between rhinoplasty and septoplasty?
Rhinoplasty reshapes the external appearance of the nose, while septoplasty corrects a deviated septum to improve breathing. These procedures can be performed together if you have both aesthetic concerns and breathing difficulties.
Am I too old for rhinoplasty?
There’s no upper age limit for rhinoplasty, as long as you’re in good health. Many patients in their 50s, 60s, and beyond successfully undergo rhinoplasty, often revising the results from a previous rhinoplasty procedure. The key factors are your overall health, realistic expectations, and good healing capacity.
Can I get rhinoplasty if I’ve had a previous nose surgery?
Yes, revision rhinoplasty can correct or improve results from a previous nose surgery. However, revision procedures are more complex because of scar tissue and altered anatomy. It’s important to choose a surgeon with specific experience in revision rhinoplasty.
How soon can I return to work after rhinoplasty?
Most patients return to work within 7-10 days, once the splint is removed and visible bruising has faded. If your job involves heavy physical labor or risk of injury, you may need 2-3 weeks off. Desk jobs typically require less time away.
Will my nose look natural after rhinoplasty?
When performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon, rhinoplasty should create natural-looking results that harmonize with your facial features. The goal is enhancement, not a “done” appearance. During your consultation, you can review before-and-after photos to see the natural results our surgeons achieve.
Can rhinoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes, rhinoplasty is often combined with other facial procedures such as brow lift, eyelid lift, or buccal fat removal. Combining procedures can be more cost-effective and reduce overall recovery time.
What if I don’t like my results?
While most patients are very satisfied with their rhinoplasty results, revision rhinoplasty is an option if you’re unhappy with your outcome. However, you must wait at least one year for all swelling to resolve before considering revision surgery. This is why choosing an experienced surgeon and having realistic expectations from the start is so important.
How do I choose the right rhinoplasty surgeon?
Look for a board-certified plastic surgeon with extensive experience in rhinoplasty specifically. Review before-and-after photos, read patient reviews, and schedule consultations with multiple surgeons. You should feel comfortable with your surgeon and confident in their ability to achieve your goals.
Our surgeons can help you achieve your nose reshaping goals at Berks Plastic Surgery. We specialize in cosmetic and reconstructive surgery procedures to help you look your best and enhance your self-confidence.
To schedule a consultation or to learn more about nose surgery, please contact us online today or call us at 610-320-0200.
