Rhinoplasty Chicago

The nose is a very central and prominent feature of the face. This is why having disproportions in the nose can really affect an individuals self-image and confidence. Additionally, patients can experience breathing problems caused by an uneven nasal structure. In both of these instances, having surgery performed with Dr. Clark Schierle may improve these concerns.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a procedure that can change the appearance of your nose by altering the size and shape surgically. Rhinoplasty procedures can also improve the internal structure of the nose allowing for improved breathing.

Nasal surgery can have transformative results for the patient. It can reduce or increase the overall size of the nose, remove a hump, decrease the span of the nostrils, alter the bridge or tip of the nose, change the angle between the upper lip and nose, or correct nasal deformities or structural abnormalities that cause breathing problems. If you have breathing problems, surgery of the nose is considered reconstructive and may be covered by insurance.

Am I a candidate for rhinoplasty?

If you dislike the appearance of your nose you may consider rhinoplasty. This procedure can change the shape and appearance of the nose, while also improving breathing difficulty or a deviated septum.

Benefits of Nose Surgery

While some rhinoplasty procedures are performed for cosmetic reasons, it can also reduce breathing problems. Having the rhinoplasty procedure has the following benefits:

Remove nose hump
Alter bridge or tip of nose
Improve structures for breathing
Increase confidence

Rhinoplasty Surgery

Cartilage grafted from other areas of your body can be used to augment nasal structures. Once the nose is sculpted to the desired shape, the skin is redraped and incisions are closed. Packing and splints will be used to keep the nose in place as it begins to heal. Swelling after surgery is common and will subside within a few weeks.

Rhinoplasty Before And After

View more before & after photos.

Open Rhinoplasty & Closed Rhinoplasty

Surgery of the nose can be accomplished either using a closed procedure (where incisions are made inside the nose and are hidden) or using an open procedure (where an incision is made across the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils). The chosen approach depends on your specific desires and your surgeon.

3D Printing Technology for Nose Surgery

Rhinoplasty Recovery

After the rhinoplasty surgery, a nose splint will support and protect your nose while it heals. There will be some swelling nearby the area after the surgery, which will subside in time. Keeping your head elevated while sleeping is recommended while recovering from the rhinoplasty. Avoid any strenuous activity for the first few weeks and make sure not to bump your nose on anything.

Rhinoplasty surgery can make your breathing worse before it gets better, but most often that is only for the first few days. After the surgery you may feel stuffy or have a headache, but often this can be controlled with non-narcotic pain medication. We usually describe the downtime as about one week, as that is when you will see us in the office for your splint to be removed. The majority of the bruising should resolve within the first week or two.

Will I have scarring after rhinoplasty?

The incisions created during a rhinoplasty procedure are often on the inside of the nose. Therefore, it is common that there is very little visible scarring with this procedure. There is often a small scar right under the crease of the nose that fades nicely with time and is not visible to others.

Schedule A Consultation

If you are interested in having a rhinoplasty, contact Northwestern Specialists in Plastic Surgery. Call us at (312) 266-6240 to schedule a consultation. Our practice serves Chicago, IL and surrounding areas.