The nose is a pivotal part of a person’s appearance, and especially the facial profile. If your nose appears too large, crooked or lumpy it can detract from the rest of your overall picture. This can be due to your genetics (thanks Mum & Dad!), or a knock as a child or during sports. Additionally, a nose that does not breathe well can be a source of discomfort for both the patient and their partner. A nose not only needs to look in proportion to your face and ethnic features, but it needs to function efficiently as well.

Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) and septoplasty (reshaping the internal structure of the nose) are operations commonly performed by Specialist Plastic Surgeons. Common procedures are reducing the hump of a nose or reducing the projection of a nasal tip, refining a nasal tip, changing the angle between the nose and the upper lip, altering nostril shape and increasing the air flow of the nose.

Dr Gavin Sandercoe’s approach of ensuring a functional structure with a beautiful outward appearance is aimed at providing you with a nose that not only looks great, but breathes well too.

What is involved in a rhinoplasty?

Depending on your functional and cosmetic requirements, the nasal bones and cartilages are reshaped. The inner structural components of the nose involved in breathing and humidifying the air can also be reshaped to assist breathing.

Which technique of rhinoplasty is best for me?

There are two approaches to rhinoplasty surgery based – an ‘open’ rhinoplasty or ‘closed’ rhinoplasty. The closed technique is performed through incisions only on the inside if the nostrils. It is a good method of addressing nasal bone reshaping when the nasal tip is a good shape.

In an open rhinoplasty, there is a small incision across the underside of the nose which allows the nasal skin to be lifted off the nasal cartilages and bones. This exposure allows precise manipulation of all structures of the nose under direct vision.

The more complex your surgery, the more likely it is that Dr Gavin Sandercoe will recommend that it is performed via the ‘open’ approach. The incision scar is usually very difficult to see once healing has been completed.

When should I have nasal surgery?

Although there is no minimum age for nasal surgery, facial development is not complete until about age 16 to 17. Operations on your nose prior to the age of about 18 may not have permanent results due to the effect of facial growth.

Want to discuss your options?

Sydney Plastic Surgeon Dr Gavin Sandercoe and his team will help you decide which course of action is best for you to achieve the nose you are aiming for. Find out more during a surgical consultation.