Rhinoplasty, or surgery to reshape the nose, can change the contour of the bridge, sculpt the nasal tip, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and upper lip. It may be performed to correct a birth defect, facial injury, or to enhance a relatively normal nose but should remain in balance with the rest of your facial features. The surgery should result in a more refined look and never be perceived as an "operated" nose. Reconstructing the inside of the nose may also be carried out at the same time to relieve breathing problems.

The procedure usually takes one-and-a-half to two hours. When the surgery is complete, a "splint" is custom designed for placement over the surface of your nose to help maintain its new shape and to diminish swelling. Nasal packs may also be placed in your nostrils to stabilize the septum (the dividing wall between the nasal air passages) and to limit bleeding. Most patients are up and about within two days and return to school or sedentary work a week following surgery. It will take several weeks, however, before you are entirely back to your usual routine.

Example (figure 6).