Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose. The goal is usually to improve appearance, but it can also help you breathe easier.
More and more men are choosing to undergo cosmetic surgery, including rhinoplasty. But it’s important to know that rhinoplasty on men is different than rhinoplasty on women.
The goal is to enhance the nose while maintaining a masculine appearance. Here’s what you should know about rhinoplasty on men.
What is rhinoplasty for men?
Rhinoplasty, or a nose job, is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to improve its appearance and how well it works. For men, the goal is to refine the nose while maintaining masculine features.
How is rhinoplasty different for men and women?
Men and women often have different aesthetic goals for rhinoplasty. Men typically want a wider and higher bridge, a projecting tip, and a strong bridge.
During a rhinoplasty for men, surgeons take care to avoid feminizing the nose. This means maintaining a straighter or broader bridge, a larger or wider nasal tip, and a more substantial profile.
Are you a good candidate for male rhinoplasty?
The best candidates for rhinoplasty are men who:
- Are in good health
- Have realistic expectations for what the surgery can achieve
- Don’t smoke
- Have completed facial growth (usually 17 years or older)
Men pursue rhinoplasty to address both functional and aesthetic concerns. You might consider rhinoplasty if you’re unhappy with the size, shape, or symmetry of your nose. Or, you may have trouble breathing because of a deviated septum or other structural issue in your nose.
What to expect during your consultation
When you meet with your surgeon, expect these steps:
- Initial assessment. Your surgeon will examine your nose and facial structure and discuss your medical history and any previous surgeries you’ve had.
- Defining goals and expectations. The surgeon will want to know what you hope to achieve with the surgery and will create a surgical plan to help you get there.
- Pre-operative guidelines. You’ll undergo a medical evaluation and have your medications reviewed. You’ll also need to avoid certain substances and stop smoking. Your surgeon will also take photos for documentation.
What kinds of rhinoplasty procedures are available for men?
Not all nose jobs are created equal. Here are the different kinds of rhinoplasty procedures that might be right for you.
Open Rhinoplasty
With an open rhinoplasty, the surgeon makes an incision in the columella, which is the tissue between your nostrils.
An open approach gives the surgeon a clearer view of the structures inside your nose, so it’s often the best choice for more complex reshaping and structural corrections.
Closed Rhinoplasty
In a closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nostrils.
This approach minimizes visible scarring. It’s typically used for minor adjustments and refinements when extensive reshaping isn’t needed.
Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty (Liquid Rhinoplasty)
If you’re looking for a less invasive approach, a non-surgical rhinoplasty uses dermal fillers to reshape your nose.
The upside is minimal downtime and no incisions or scars. The downside is that the results are temporary, lasting only 12-18 months. This method is best for minor corrections rather than major reshaping.
The male rhinoplasty procedure: Step-by-step
Okay, so what can you expect during the procedure itself? Here’s a quick rundown:
- Anesthesia. You’ll be given general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation to make sure you’re comfortable the whole time.
- Incision and reshaping. Incisions are made inside your nose, or across the columella (the tissue between your nostrils), depending on the technique your surgeon uses. Then, bone and cartilage are reshaped to get the look you want.
- Septal correction. If you have a deviated septum that’s making it hard to breathe, the surgeon can correct that at the same time.
- Closing incisions. Finally, the incisions are closed with sutures.
Recovery and Post-Op Care
After your surgery, you’ll have a splint and/or packing inside your nose to support it and minimize swelling. You’ll also get a prescription for pain medication to help you manage any discomfort.
During the first week, you’ll need to rest and limit your activities. You’ll return to the surgeon to have your splint removed after about a week.
In the weeks following, you can gradually return to your normal activities, but you’ll need to avoid strenuous activities for several weeks. You’ll also need to manage any swelling and bruising.
Keep in mind that swelling can last for several months, and it may take up to a year to see your final results.
Here are a few other post-op instructions you’ll want to follow:
- Avoid blowing your nose.
- Avoid wearing glasses or sunglasses.
Potential risks and complications
As with any surgery, rhinoplasty comes with risks. Some common complications include swelling and bruising, bleeding, and infection.
Less common risks include scarring, numbness, difficulty breathing, and asymmetry.
The best way to minimize these risks is to choose a board-certified plastic surgeon who has experience performing rhinoplasty on men. Look for a surgeon who understands the nuances of the male face and can create a natural-looking result.
How much does male rhinoplasty cost?
The cost of rhinoplasty depends on a few things:
- How complex the procedure is
- Anesthesia fees
- Your surgeon’s fees
- Facility fees
The best way to find out what a rhinoplasty will cost you is to schedule a consultation. The surgeon will assess your nose and give you a detailed cost estimate.
Putting It All Together
Male rhinoplasty is a specialized procedure that can improve the appearance of your nose and make it work better, too.
If you’re considering it, finding a qualified surgeon is key. Make sure you fully understand the procedure, what recovery will be like, and any potential risks so you can make a well-informed decision and get the best possible outcome.