Rhinoplasty (nose job, or surgery to reshape the nose), can reduce or increase the size of the nose, change the shape of the bridge or tip of the nose, correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing problems.

This reshaping of the nose often gives both men and woman much more confidence in their physical appearance in both social and professional environments. 
 

The top of the nose, extending from the forehead to the tip is the dorsum. The central divider which separates the nasal passages is called the septum. The bridge between the nostrils is the columella.
 

The shape of your nose is determined by its underlying structures. The top part of the nose is shaped by the nasal bone. The mid-portion and tip of the nose are shaped by cartilage. In order to change the appearance of the nose, these structures are surgically sculpted. 
 

The incision for rhinoplasty is usually placed in the columella and continued along the internal aspect of the nostrils. Small incisions may need to be placed on the outside of the nose. These will be carefully located in the natural folds of the skin to be well hidden. 
 

Sculpturing of the tip of the nose to correct a wide or 'droopy' tip will be performed on the lower cartilages at the end of the nose. A 'hump' on the nose or a prominent dorsum, can be reduced by removing portions of the upper cartilages and/or nasal bone at the top or mid portion of the nose.
 

Internal structures of the nose can also be treated during cosmetic rhinoplasty if breathing problems are present. Please discuss this with Dr. Sonntag during your consultation. A splint and nasal packing will be necessary following the surgery, and will be removed after a few days. Swelling and bruising may take a few weeks to subside before the final result can be fully appreciated. 
 

The decision to undergo rhinoplasty (nose job) can be very difficult to make. After a free consultation in our plastic surgery center located just outside of Salt Lake City, Utah, you will be much more confident in knowing if this procedure is right for you.