Understanding Rhinoplasty: Will Your Nose Be Broken During Surgery?

Many people considering rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a ‘nose job,’ often wonder about the surgical procedures involved. They are particularly anxious about one question: will the surgeon need to ‘break’ their nose?

Rhinoplasty Overview

Rhinoplasty is a type of plastic surgery that reshapes or resizes the nose for aesthetic or functional reasons. As with all surgical procedures, it involves a certain degree of manipulation to the physical structure involved—in this case, the nose’s bone and cartilage. This reshaping could involve removing, adding, or modifying bone and cartilage, depending on the patient’s specific needs.

The Concept of ‘Breaking the Nose’

In rhinoplasty, the term ‘breaking the nose’ is often used to describe the surgical procedure called ‘osteotomy.’ While this term may sound alarming, it’s essential to understand that it’s not as dramatic or violent as it may initially sound.

During an osteotomy, Dr. Ian MacArthur makes precise, controlled cuts in the nasal bone to realign it and achieve the desired shape. This process might be necessary if a patient has a broad nasal bridge, a hump on the bridge, or if the nose appears crooked. It’s also standard practice for secondary rhinoplasties, where previous surgeries have left the nose with an asymmetrical or undesirable shape.

Determining the Need for an Osteotomy

Whether an osteotomy is necessary for rhinoplasty is determined by several factors, primarily the patient’s current nasal structure and aesthetic goals. If the shape or width of the bone structure contributes to dissatisfaction with the nose’s appearance, an osteotomy might be the best approach to achieve the desired results.

A thorough consultation with a plastic surgeon will involve an examination of your nasal structure, including internal and external features. Your surgeon will assess your nose’s shape, size, symmetry, and proportion in relation to other facial features. They’ll also discuss your expectations and goals for the surgery.

Here are a few common reasons that may necessitate an osteotomy:

1. Nasal Hump: If a patient wishes to remove a hump or bump on their nasal bridge, the surgeon will have to break and reshape the bone to ensure a smooth, natural slope.
2. Nasal Width: If a patient has a wide nasal bridge, the surgeon may perform an osteotomy to narrow it and provide a more balanced appearance.
3. Crooked Nose: For a patient with a crooked nose due to an accident or natural growth, an osteotomy can correct the asymmetry.
4. Revision Rhinoplasty: In cases where a previous rhinoplasty has resulted in a nasal deformity or dissatisfaction, an osteotomy can be done to make the necessary corrections.

The Reality of Rhinoplasty

While the thought of ‘breaking the nose’ might cause anxiety, it’s important to remember that a skilled and experienced surgeon performs these procedures in a controlled environment under anesthesia. This means you won’t feel any pain during the process.

Recovery time can vary, but patients typically experience bruising and swelling, which subsides after a few weeks. Dr. Ian MacArthur will provide detailed post-operative instructions to ensure a comfortable recovery process and the best possible outcome.

If you have a preferred surgery date, do not wait until it’s too late

New Age Medical Aesthetics & Plastic Surgery is a very active aesthetic practice. If you have a preferred surgery date, do not wait until it’s too late. Call (613) 595-1880 to reserve your consultation. Our Patient Coordinators are happy to help you.