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Rhinoplasty Specialist

Matthew W. Shawl, MD -  - Facial Plastic Surgeon

Matthew W. Shawl, MD

Facial Plastic Surgeon & Ear, Nose and Throat Specialist located in Union Square, New York, NY

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is one of the most common surgical cosmetic procedures in the United States. Whether you’re seeking rhinoplasty to improve appearance or breathing, you want a skilled surgeon who can provide you with the best results. Experienced facial plastic surgeon, Matthew W. Shawl, MD, in New York City, has performed numerous rhinoplasty procedures throughout his career and can get the results you desire. To schedule a consultation, contact the Union Square office in Manhattan by phone or online today.

Rhinoplasty Q & A

What is a rhinoplasty?

A rhinoplasty is a type of plastic surgery that alters the shape of your nose to improve breathing, appearance, or both. 

You may be considering rhinoplasty to:

  • Alter the size of your nose to improve facial balance
  • Remove visible bumps or depressions from the bridge of your nose
  • Improve the shape or appearance of the tip of your nose
  • Fix the shape or size of your nostrils
  • Repair a deviated septum

During a rhinoplasty, Dr. Shawl alters the skin, bones, or cartilage that make up the structure of your nose to provide you with the results you want. 

Am I a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

Dr. Shawl determines if you’re a good candidate for rhinoplasty during your consultation. To be considered a good candidate, you must be:

  • In good overall health
  • Nonsmoker
  • Realistic about the results of the procedure

Dr. Shawl also takes into consideration your motivation for surgery when deciding if a rhinoplasty makes the best choice for you.

What happens during a rhinoplasty?

Dr. Shawl customizes your rhinoplasty to meet your specific needs and goals, and no surgery is like another. However, to ease discomfort, your rhinoplasty is conducted using local or general anesthesia, depending on the complexity of your procedure. 

Once sedated, Dr. Shawl begins the procedure. He may perform your rhinoplasty using a closed procedure, where incisions are hidden in your nostril, or an open procedure, with incisions made along the tissue that separates your nostrils.

From there, he reshapes your nose by removing bone and/or cartilage or grafting cartilage from your septum. If you have a deviated nasal septum, he improves alignment for better breathing.

Dr. Shawl then closes your incisions and may place additional incisions to recreate the natural creases in your nose. He may also place gauze or splints in your nose for additional support during the first few days of the healing process.

How long does it take to recover from a rhinoplasty?

Due to the nature of a rhinoplasty, downtime is needed following your surgery. The length of downtime depends on the complexity of your surgery, and Dr. Shawl determines the length of time.

It may take a few weeks for the majority of your swelling and bruising to disappear, and up to a year until you see the final results of your rhinoplasty.

To schedule a rhinoplasty consultation, call Matthew W. Shawl, MD, or request an appointment online today.