Rhinoplasty, commonly called a 'nose job,' is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose for cosmetic or functional reasons. It may address concerns such as a dorsal hump, wide or asymmetrical nostrils, a bulbous or drooping tip, a crooked bridge, or breathing difficulties caused by structural issues. At Allure MD Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Newport Beach, Dr. James Rosing evaluates each patient's facial anatomy and aesthetic goals to determine whether cosmetic rhinoplasty, functional rhinoplasty, or a combined approach is most appropriate.

Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the columella — the narrow strip of tissue between the nostrils — allowing the surgeon to lift the skin and access the underlying structures with greater visibility. Closed rhinoplasty uses incisions placed entirely inside the nostrils, leaving no external scars. Open rhinoplasty is often preferred for more complex reshaping, while closed rhinoplasty may be suitable for more limited refinements. Dr. James Rosing will recommend the technique best suited to your anatomy and surgical goals during your consultation.

Many patients who are bothered by the size, shape, or proportion of their nose, or who experience breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum or other structural issue, may be candidates for rhinoplasty. Ideal candidates are generally in good overall health, non-smokers or willing to quit before surgery, and have realistic expectations about outcomes. Facial growth should be complete — typically by the mid-to-late teens for most patients. A thorough consultation with Dr. Rosing at Allure MD in Newport Beach will help determine whether rhinoplasty is appropriate for your individual situation.

Preparation typically includes a comprehensive pre-operative consultation, during which Dr. Rosing will review your medical history, current medications, and aesthetic goals. Patients are generally advised to stop taking aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain supplements that can increase bleeding risk for at least two weeks before surgery. Smoking should be discontinued well in advance, as it can impair healing. Patients should arrange for a responsible adult to drive them home and assist during the early recovery period. Specific pre-operative instructions will be provided by the Allure MD care team prior to your procedure date.

Yes. Certain medications and supplements can increase the risk of bleeding and should typically be paused before surgery. These commonly include aspirin, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), vitamin E, fish oil, and herbal supplements such as garlic and ginkgo biloba. Some prescription medications may also need to be adjusted. Always disclose your full medication and supplement list to Dr. Rosing and the Allure MD clinical team so a personalized pre-operative plan can be developed.

Recovery from rhinoplasty is gradual and occurs in stages. Most patients can expect to wear a nasal splint for approximately one week. Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes are common in the first one to two weeks and typically subside significantly by the end of the second week. Many patients feel comfortable returning to a desk job or light activity within ten to fourteen days, though strenuous exercise and contact sports should be avoided for four to six weeks. Initial swelling may resolve within a few months, but subtle refinement of the final shape — particularly at the nasal tip — can continue for up to twelve months or longer. Results vary by individual.

Some nasal congestion and difficulty breathing through the nose is expected in the days and weeks following surgery due to internal swelling. Most patients notice a gradual improvement in airflow as swelling resolves, typically over several weeks. For patients undergoing combined functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty — for example, to correct a deviated septum — breathing improvements may become noticeable once the initial swelling subsides. Full recovery timelines vary, and Dr. Rosing will provide personalized expectations during your consultation and follow-up appointments.

Rhinoplasty results emerge gradually as swelling resolves. Most patients see a meaningful improvement in the shape of their nose within the first two to three months. However, the nasal tip tends to retain swelling longer than other areas, and the final refined outcome may take twelve to eighteen months to fully appear. Patience is an important part of the rhinoplasty process. Many patients in the Newport Beach and Orange County area appreciate that the end result typically looks natural and proportionate to their facial features, though individual results vary.

In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made on the columella, which typically heals into a very faint scar that is difficult to detect once fully matured. In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are internal and no external scar is visible. Scar appearance varies among individuals and depends on skin type, healing response, and post-operative care. Dr. Rosing takes care to place incisions in inconspicuous locations to minimize any visible scarring.

The cost of rhinoplasty varies based on the complexity of the procedure, whether functional correction is included, anesthesia fees, and facility costs. Because each rhinoplasty is highly individualized, a specific price range is best discussed during a personal consultation with Dr. James Rosing at Allure MD Plastic Surgery & Dermatology in Newport Beach. Financing options are available to help make treatment accessible. Contact Allure MD for current pricing and to schedule your consultation.

Insurance coverage for rhinoplasty depends on whether the procedure is performed for cosmetic or functional reasons. Purely cosmetic rhinoplasty is generally not covered by health insurance. However, if rhinoplasty is performed to correct a documented breathing impairment — such as a deviated septum — a portion of the procedure may be eligible for insurance coverage. The Allure MD team can assist patients in understanding their coverage options and can provide documentation to support insurance inquiries where applicable.

Rhinoplasty performed by a board-certified plastic surgeon is considered a well-established and generally safe procedure. As with any surgery, there are potential risks, which may include bleeding, infection, adverse reaction to anesthesia, asymmetry, breathing changes, or the need for revision surgery. Dr. James Rosing, MD, FACS, is Stanford-trained with over 14 years of surgical experience and takes a thorough, individualized approach to minimize risk. During your consultation at Allure MD in Newport Beach, all potential risks and benefits will be discussed in detail so you can make a fully informed decision.