Are you considering rhinoplasty but have some unanswered questions?
At Ridenour Plastic Surgery in St. Louis, we get it — choosing rhinoplasty is a big, personal decision. Dr. Ridenour and our caring team are here to support you through this journey with years of experience and thorough, compassionate care. Here, we answer some of the most common questions about rhinoplasty to help you make the best choice for you.
Whether your goal is to improve your appearance or enhance your nasal function, our top priority is to ensure you feel confident and supported throughout the entire process!
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a nose job, is surgery to change the shape of your nose for cosmetic or functional reasons. This surgery can correct various issues, including:
- A bump or indentation in the nasal bridge
- A wide or narrow nasal bridge
- Wide or flared nostrils
- A long, drooping, pointed or bulbous nasal tip
- An overall large or small nose
- A narrow or wide base of the nose
- Nasal asymmetry
- A deviated nasal septum
- Other structural abnormalities
Dr. Ridenour is known for his precision and care as a rhinoplasty surgeon. His approach focuses on minimal scarring, optimal results and improving both appearance and function.
Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
You might be a good fit for rhinoplasty if you:
- Are seeking to improve the appearance or function of your nose
- Are physically healthy
- Have realistic expectations
- Have reached facial maturity (usually 15-16 years old for girls and 17-18 years old for boys)
Dr. Ridenour takes the time to understand your unique concerns, goals and medical history to determine if rhinoplasty is the right choice for you.
What Happens During the Consultation?
During your consultation at Ridenour Plastic Surgery, you can expect:
- A physical examination of your nose and facial structure
- A detailed discussion of your aesthetic goals
- Digital imaging to visualize potential outcomes
- An explanation of the surgical process, risks and recovery
Booking a consultation is the perfect opportunity for you to ask questions and understand nose surgery in full detail. Our goal is for you to leave our office feeling confident you’ve learned everything you need to know about the procedure.
Will I Have Visible Scars?
In most cases, scars from rhinoplasty are small and strategically placed to be as inconspicuous as possible. Rhinoplasty can be performed using two primary techniques:
- Open Rhinoplasty: involves an incision on the columella, allowing Dr. Ridenour to have greater visibility and precision
- Closed Rhinoplasty: involves incisions within the nostrils, so there are no visible scars
Dr. Ridenour is a double board-certified surgeon with extensive expertise in both primary and revision rhinoplasty. He performs both open and closed rhinoplasty techniques and will tailor his approach to your specific needs.
What Is the Recovery Process Like?
Recovery from rhinoplasty varies from person to person but generally includes:
- First Week: A splint and bandages will be placed on the inside of your nose to support it as it heals. You can expect swelling, bruising and some discomfort.
- 2-3 Weeks: After the first week, your splint will be removed. Most bruising and swelling will subside. You can typically return to work and light activities.
- 3-6 Months: Swelling continues to decrease, and your nose will start to take on its new shape.
- 1 Year: The final results are typically visible, and your nose has fully settled.
Dr. Ridenour will provide detailed post-operative care instructions and is always available to address any concerns you may have during your recovery.
Are There Nonsurgical Options for Nose Reshaping?
Yes! If you are seeking only minor adjustments or prefer not to undergo surgery, Dr. Ridenour offers nonsurgical nose jobs using dermal fillers to sculpt and contour your nose. These fillers typically last 9-18 months.
Fillers are an excellent option if you are looking for subtle enhancements without the downtime associated with surgery. They can also be a great way to “test drive” the results of a surgery before committing to it.
Note that this is only effective if your desired results require adding to your nose. If your goals involve removing tissue, dermal fillers are not appropriate.
What are the Risks and Complications of Rhinoplasty?
Like any surgery, rhinoplasty has risks, including:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Scarring
- Difficulty breathing
- Dissatisfaction with aesthetic results
However, choosing an experienced surgeon like Dr. Ridenour significantly minimizes these risks. Following all pre- and post-operative instructions is also crucial for reducing complications.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost in St. Louis?
The cost of rhinoplasty varies based on factors such as:
- The complexity of the surgery
- The surgeon’s expertise
- Geographic location
- Anesthesia and facility fees
During your consultation, Dr. Ridenour’s team will provide a detailed cost estimate and discuss any financing options that could make the procedure more accessible for you.
How Long Do the Results of Rhinoplasty Last?
Rhinoplasty results are permanent! However, like the rest of your face, your nose may change and age with time. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle and following Dr. Ridenour’s advice on post-operative care can help preserve your results for a lifetime.
What if I Am Not Satisfied with My Results?
Nose surgery is a complex procedure, and sometimes, patients require more than one surgery to reach their goals. If you are dissatisfied with your rhinoplasty final results after a year, Dr. Ridenour can evaluate your nose to determine if revision rhinoplasty may help.
- Revision Rhinoplasty: This procedure may involve reconstructing the nasal framework, sometimes requiring a cartilage graft.
- Recovery: Revision rhinoplasty recovery can take a bit longer compared to primary rhinoplasty, but the results are typically very rewarding.
Dr. Ridenour is dedicated to ensuring you are happy with your final appearance. He will work closely with you to address any concerns in a timely and expert fashion.
How Do I Schedule a Consultation?
At Ridenour Plastic Surgery, Dr. Ridenour and his team are committed to providing exceptional care and achieving the best possible outcomes for their patients.
If you are considering rhinoplasty, we invite you to schedule a consultation to discuss your goals and learn more about how we can help you achieve your desired results. Reach out today to take the first step toward your transformation.
To book your consultation, visit our booking platform or call 314-878-8600.
