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Rhinoplasty (Nose Job)

Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is one of the most sought-after plastic surgery procedures in San Antonio. Whether you’re looking to improve the shape, size or function of your nose, rhinoplasty can help you achieve a balanced and harmonious look that complements your overall facial features.

Dr. Kenneth Yu, a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, has extensive experience in rhinoplasty. With his expertise, you can trust that your rhinoplasty procedure will be customized to address your aesthetic and functional needs.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a highly specialized procedure designed to improve the appearance and/or function of the nose. If you’re looking to address cosmetic concerns, such as a dorsal hump or asymmetry, or functional issues, such as breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum, rhinoplasty offers a solution.

Common Reasons for Rhinoplasty

  • Cosmetic improvements: Adjustments to the size, shape or projection of the nose, such as reshaping the bridge or refining the tip, to improve facial harmony
  • Functional corrections: Addressing breathing issues caused by structural problems in the nose
  • Trauma or injury: Correcting damage from accidents or previous surgeries
  • Congenital abnormalities: Fixing anomalies or developmental issues affecting the nose’s appearance or function

Who Is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is designed for individuals who want to enhance the look or function of their nose. If you’re an adult in good health with specific goals for how you’d like to improve your nose, you could be a candidate for nose surgery. Younger patients may be appropriate candidates based on several factors, including physical and emotional maturity.

During your consultation, Dr. Yu will evaluate your nasal structure, facial proportions and general health to determine if rhinoplasty is right for you.

How the Rhinoplasty Process Works

Rhinoplasty is a highly individualized procedure, and your surgery will be tailored to your goals and needs. Here’s a closer look at the process and what you can expect.

Pre-Operative Consultation

The rhinoplasty process begins with a detailed consultation with Dr. Yu, where you’ll discuss your goals and concerns. Dr. Yu will assess the structure of your nose and how it relates to your facial proportions. During this consultation, you’ll also talk about any potential functional issues, like breathing problems, you want to address.

Based on this assessment, Dr. Yu will develop a personalized surgical plan to achieve the best possible rhinoplasty results for you.

The Rhinoplasty Surgery

Rhinoplasty typically takes between one and three hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. While some surgeons will perform rhinoplasty under local anesthesia, Dr. Yu only performs nose surgery under general anesthesia.

Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how rhinoplasty surgery works:

  • Incisions (open vs. closed rhinoplasty): Rhinoplasty can be performed using an open or closed technique. With open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made between the nostrils at the base of the nose (along the columella), allowing for greater visibility of the nasal structures. With the closed technique, all incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no external scars.
  • Reshaping the nose: Dr. Yu will carefully adjust the nasal bone and cartilage to attain the desired nose shape. This might involve reducing a dorsal hump, refining the tip or correcting any asymmetry.
  • Correcting functional issues: If you’re undergoing functional rhinoplasty, Dr. Yu will address any internal structural problems, such as a deviated septum, to clear the airway and improve breathing.
  • Closing the incisions: Once the necessary adjustments are made, the incisions are closed, and a splint is placed on the outside of the nose to support the healing process.

Rhinoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis. Most patients return home a few hours after surgery.

Rhinoplasty Recovery

The recovery process is a key part of your rhinoplasty journey, and it’s essential to know what to expect. Dr. Yu will provide detailed post-operative care instructions, including how to manage any discomfort and how to care for your incisions.

Here’s a general overview of what your rhinoplasty recovery timeline might look like:

The First Few Days

  • You’ll likely experience some swelling and bruising around your nose and eyes. This is a normal part of the healing process and will gradually subside over time.
  • Dr. Yu reduces bruising and recovery time using homeopathic and herbal options.
  • Prescription pain medication is usually only required for the first few days.
  • You may also have some nasal congestion as your nose heals internally.

One to Two Weeks Post-Surgery

  • Stitches are usually removed within one week.
  • Swelling and bruising should begin to subside, but you may still see some residual swelling for several weeks.
  • Most patients are able to return to work, school and other non-strenuous daily activities within one week, but you’ll need to avoid physically demanding activities for about two weeks and contact sports for at least two months.

Full Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline

It can take several months for all the swelling to fully resolve. Final results are usually not seen until at least a year after surgery. Dr. Yu will guide you through the recovery process and ensure you know what to expect at each stage.

Rhinoplasty Results

Rhinoplasty offers the potential for a significant transformation in the overall balance of your face, with results that are typically long-lasting. After the procedure, you will begin to notice changes in your nose’s shape as the initial swelling subsides within the first few weeks. While these immediate improvements are visible early on, the true final results take time to fully emerge. Over the course of several months, your nose will gradually settle into its final shape, revealing a more refined and harmonious appearance.

Whether you’ve undergone cosmetic changes to enhance your facial symmetry or functional corrections to improve breathing, the long-term results of rhinoplasty provide a natural, balanced look that complements your unique features.

How Long Do the Results of Rhinoplasty Last?

The surgical adjustments achieved with rhinoplasty are permanent, though the aging process will continue to subtly affect your facial structure over time.

 

Rhinoplasty FAQs

How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost in San Antonio?

The cost of rhinoplasty in San Antonio generally ranges from $8,000 to $15,000 and is based on several factors. The final cost will be influenced by the complexity of the procedure, whether it’s primarily cosmetic or includes functional corrections, and your plastic surgeon’s expertise. Dr. Kenneth Yu, being a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon, provides highly specialized care, which can affect pricing. Additional factors like anesthesia fees, surgical facility costs and post-operative care also contribute to the overall price of nose surgery.

It’s essential to have a clear discussion with your plastic surgeon about what’s included in the overall cost of rhinoplasty so there are no surprises. We have a straightforward financial policy and offer financing options to make your nose surgery more affordable.

For a more detailed estimate tailored to your specific needs, it’s best to schedule a consultation with Dr. Yu to discuss your goals and the complete rhinoplasty cost breakdown.

Are There Potential Risks and Complications With Rhinoplasty?

As with any surgery, rhinoplasty carries some potential risks. However, Dr. Yu takes every precaution to minimize these risks and promote a smooth recovery. Potential complications may include:

  • Scarring (typically minimal, especially with the closed rhinoplasty technique)
  • Infection
  • Changes in sensation (temporary numbness around the nose)
  • Breathing difficulties (rare, but possible)

Dr. Yu will discuss these risks with you during your consultation, allowing you to make an informed decision.

Does Dr. Yu Specialize in Asian Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Kenneth Yu is renowned for his expertise in Asian cosmetic surgery, offering advanced techniques specifically tailored to meet the unique needs of Asian patients. With his specialized knowledge in ethnic rhinoplasty, Dr. Yu understands the importance of maintaining the cultural and aesthetic identity of his patients while creating a natural, harmonious result.

For many Asian patients, rhinoplasty may involve strengthening the nasal bridge, adjusting the tip or enhancing the projection of the nose. Dr. Yu’s approach is always patient-focused so that your procedure is carefully customized to align with your goals and facial structure. His precise techniques are designed to provide natural-looking outcomes that respect the nuances of ethnic beauty.

Are There Different Approaches in Rhinoplasty for Men Vs. Rhinoplasty for Women?

Dr. Yu recognizes the distinct anatomical differences between male and female noses and tailors his surgical approach accordingly. Men typically seek a more structured, defined nasal shape that complements a masculine profile, while women often prefer softer, more delicate refinements.

Whether it’s adjusting the width, tip or bridge of the nose, Dr. Yu carefully plans each surgery to align with the patient’s aesthetic and gender identity preferences while ensuring that the nose harmonizes with the rest of the face. His experience with rhinoplasty for males and females means that he understands how to create balanced, natural results that emphasize masculinity or femininity without compromising nasal function.

Does Dr. Yu Offer Revision Rhinoplasty?

Yes, Dr. Kenneth Yu offers revision rhinoplasty for patients seeking to correct or improve the results of a previous rhinoplasty procedure. Revision rhinoplasty is often more complex than the initial surgery due to scar tissue, structural changes or dissatisfaction with prior outcomes. Revision rhinoplasties can be very challenging and may take up to four to five hours.

Dr. Yu’s extensive expertise in facial plastic surgery allows him to approach these cases with precision and care, addressing both functional issues and aesthetic concerns. Whether the goal is to refine the nose’s shape or restore its function, Dr. Yu carefully tailors revision rhinoplasty to meet the individual needs of each patient, helping them achieve a more satisfying and natural result.

Can Rhinoplasty Be Combined With Other Procedures?

Yes, rhinoplasty can be combined with other facial procedures to achieve more comprehensive results. Common combinations include:

  • Chin augmentation: To further enhance facial harmony, chin augmentation can be performed to balance your profile.
  • Facelift surgery: If you’re looking for overall facial rejuvenation, rhinoplasty can be combined with a facelift for more dramatic results.

Dr. Yu will help determine if any additional procedures could enhance your overall outcome during your consultation.

Why Choose Dr. Kenneth Yu for Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Kenneth Yu is a fellowship-trained, double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with years of experience in performing complex rhinoplasty procedures. Dr. Yu’s skill in both aesthetic and functional rhinoplasty ensures you receive expert care tailored to your needs.

Whether you’re looking to refine your nose’s appearance or correct breathing issues, Dr. Yu’s patient-centered approach can help you achieve your desired results.

 

Refine Your Nose and Breathe Easier With Rhinoplasty in San Antonio

If you’ve been considering rhinoplasty and want to learn how it can enhance the balance and function of your nose, schedule a consultation with Dr. Kenneth Yu. His practice serves patients in San Antonio, Austin, Houston and the surrounding Texas communities.

Call (210) 876-6868 or contact us online to book your consultation and start your rhinoplasty journey now.