Skip to main content
Call Us

Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery) in Birmingham, AL

A procedure to reshape the nose for better facial balance.

Schedule a Consultation
Model

As one of the most prominent facial features, the nose can have a tremendous effect on your facial harmony and functionality. Both men and women can improve the appearance of a disproportionate or poorly shaped nose with rhinoplasty, one of the most popular cosmetic procedures in the United States. Rhinoplasty involves reducing the size of the nose or correcting practical nasal concerns by reinforcing and sculpting the nasal tissues. Utilizing modern rhinoplasty techniques, Dr. Robert I. Oliver, Jr. and Dr. Jason M. Jack can help you achieve a beautiful, natural-looking result tailored to your unique facial anatomy.

young adult male model in turtle neck
Model

What Can Rhinoplasty Correct?

Displeasing Facial Proportions

You may be considering rhinoplasty if you feel your nose is too large or wide compared to your other facial features. This procedure can enhance your overall appearance by reducing the size of your nose or by correcting displeasing nasal contours. Patients who opt for rhinoplasty can improve their facial harmony and boost their self-confidence.

Nasal Defects or Trauma

Those who suffer from congenital deformities or defects that have resulted from injury can benefit from undergoing rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty can help create an attractive nasal aesthetic and restore the nose to a more normalized state. The techniques used during your individualized procedure depend on your cosmetic goals and the severity of your condition.

Functional Concerns

While many patients who seek rhinoplasty wish to reshape their nose for cosmetic reasons, some necessitate nose surgery for functional purposes. Compromised nasal structures can cause breathing problems and even affect the pitch of a person’s voice. Rhinoplasty can alleviate the physical distress related to nasal obstruction and improve your quality of life in the process.

What Can I Expect From My Rhinoplasty Procedure?

Adult Black woman looking over her bare shoulder
Model

What happens at my rhinoplasty consultation?

During your initial consultation, one of our plastic surgery professionals will examine your facial anatomy and assess your expectations to determine the most appropriate surgical approach. Typically, patients wish to address the bridge of the nose, nasal tip, and width of the nostrils. However, those with breathing problems may require more internal alterations to the structure of the nose. The extent of correction necessary will influence which surgical technique will produce optimal results.

Model
Asian young women of color in a brown spaghetti strap blouse
Model
Model

What are my rhinoplasty options?

Open

  • An incision is carefully placed between the nostrils on the columella
  • Allows for maximum visibility and control of surgical site
  • Can be used to correct a variety of nasal imperfections

Closed

  • All incisions are internal, so there are no visible scars
  • This technique tends to produce minimal swelling
  • Ideal for minor nasal corrections
Young adult caucasian woman looking over her shoulder
Model

How is rhinoplasty performed?

  • Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure performed at our surgical facility
  • The procedure can last between one and three hours
  • Local or general anesthesia may be used depending on the complexity of the operation
  • The necessary incisions are placed according to the technique being used
  • The cartilage and bone are reshaped, as needed
  • Incisions are closed, and a splint may be applied for support during recovery
Model
Reception Desk

Have Questions About Rhinoplasty in Birmingham Alabama?

If you are interested in a rhinoplasty, contact our office in Birmingham, Alabama, to schedule your consultation.

Contact Us

Addressing Your Concerns

Young woman with nice face
Model

What Should I Expect During My Rhinoplasty Recovery?

A splint, bandages, and gauze may be applied immediately following surgery to aid in the healing process and minimize movement of the nose. Your surgeon will decide when these can be removed, but it is usually within two weeks of the procedure. It is recommended to avoid strenuous activity for at least three weeks, but you may return to work in two weeks if it is not physically laborious. The majority of swelling should subside within two to three weeks, but residual swelling may linger for several months. Any discomfort may be managed using oral pain medication and cold compresses. You will be provided with detailed aftercare instructions that reflect the requirements of your specific procedure during your consultation.

Young woman with nice face
Model

Will I Have Scars After Rhinoplasty?

Fortunately, scars are not a significant concern after rhinoplasty. Patients who undergo closed rhinoplasty have no external incisions; therefore, there will be no visible scars. Patients who undergo open rhinoplasty will have a small scar across the columella (the cartilage and skin between the nostrils), but this would only be visible if someone were looking up at your nose. This scar will fade over time.

Young woman with nice face
Model

Is Rhinoplasty Painful?

Rhinoplasty is performed under local or general anesthesia to prevent any pain or discomfort during the procedure itself. Most patients tend to experience some pain within a few hours of their surgery due to the bruising and swelling. Patients also describe discomfort due to the nasal packing required initially after their surgery.

Over-the-counter or prescribed pain medication can be taken to alleviate this discomfort which should gradually reduce.

Before & After

View Photo Gallery
Rhinoplasty Patient 01 before
Rhinoplasty Patient 01 after
Rhinoplasty Patient 02 before
Rhinoplasty Patient 02 after

What Are the Risks Associated With Rhinoplasty?

While rhinoplasty is considered safe when performed by a trained, experienced, and board-certified plastic surgeon, it is still a surgical procedure with certain risks, including:

  • Bleeding
  • Infection
  • Changes in breathing or sense of smell
  • Changes in sensation around the nose
  • Asymmetry
  • Pain
  • Scarring

Swelling and bruising are expected as you heal, but if you experience any of the above symptoms, please contact our office.

How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost in Birmingham, AL?

The cost of your rhinoplasty (nose surgery) will vary depending on the extent of your treatment, whether you are undergoing open or closed rhinoplasty, and any combination of plastic surgery treatments. Additional cost factors include geographical location, anesthesia fees, facility fees, surgeon’s fees, pre-operative tests, and post-operative appointments.

You will be given an accurate cost estimate that is personalized to your nose surgery after your consultation with Dr. Oliver or Dr. Jack. See our pricing overview for an idea of the average rhinoplasty cost at Plastic Surgery Specialists.

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I a candidate for rhinoplasty?

Candidates for nose surgery are adult men and women who wish to correct aesthetic and functional nasal concerns. Patients should have realistic expectations and should be both physically and emotionally healthy. Candidates should not smoke or be willing to quit before and after their surgery.

What is the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?

Open rhinoplasty involves an incision along the columella, which is the strip of skin that connects your nostrils above your lip. Closed rhinoplasty only uses incisions on the inside of the nose. The primary difference between open and closed rhinoplasty is the level of correction each can achieve. Drs. Oliver and Jack will recommend the type of rhinoplasty that best addresses your needs and desired results.

Can rhinoplasty improve breathing problems?

Yes, rhinoplasty can improve breathing problems due to obstructed nasal passages, narrow nostrils, or a deviated septum (septoplasty).

How should I prepare for rhinoplasty?

You will be given instructions on how to prepare for your nose surgery during your consultation. Patients should review all current medications with Drs. Oliver and Jack to see if there is any need to stop or change your medications. Patients should avoid aspirin, ibuprofen, NSAIDs, and some herbal supplements for up to two weeks before the surgery because they can increase bleeding.

Is there an age requirement for rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can be performed as soon as the nose is fully grown. This tends to happen around the age of 15 to 16 for girls and 16 to 17 for boys. There is no maximum age for rhinoplasty.

Do I need to quit smoking before my rhinoplasty procedure?

Patients must refrain from smoking and all types of tobacco use for several weeks before and after any surgery. Tobacco can impair the healing process, which may lead to infection, scarring, or unsatisfying results.

Will my insurance cover the cost of rhinoplasty?

If you are undergoing rhinoplasty to correct a breathing problem or nose deformity, it may be covered under your health insurance policy. Contact your insurance carrier for more information about coverage.

How long does swelling last after rhinoplasty?

After rhinoplasty, most of your swelling will slowly dissipate over about four to six weeks. However, you may experience intermittent swelling for up to a year after your rhinoplasty procedure.

What activities should I avoid after a rhinoplasty?

After rhinoplasty, you will want to avoid the following activities until cleared by Drs. Oliver and Jack:

  • Blowing your nose
  • Wearing glasses
  • Sun exposure
  • Contact sports
  • Strenuous exercise
  • Showering and swimming

You will receive specific instructions from Drs. Oliver and Jack after your rhinoplasty procedure. It is imperative that you follow these instructions to the letter, as well as attend all of your follow-up appointments to ensure optimal results.

When can I see the final results of my rhinoplasty?

Even though it takes a while for the swelling to subside after rhinoplasty, you will be able to see your initial results three to four weeks after surgery. A noticeable improvement will be visible four to six months after surgery, with your nose fully healed and your final results evident a year after your procedure.

How long will my results last?

Rhinoplasty results are considered permanent as long as you follow all of the recommended aftercare instructions and do not experience significant trauma to the nose. Some patients may decide to undergo another rhinoplasty procedure after their initial surgery to achieve a different result, but this is usually not done out of necessity.

Should I combine my nose surgery with another facial surgery?

While many men and women undergo rhinoplasty as a standalone procedure to address longstanding or new concerns with the nasal structure, others choose to combine their nose surgery with other facial rejuvenation procedures such as facelift and neck lift surgery, eyelid surgery, and ear surgery (otoplasty). Combining plastic surgeries can create better facial harmony and has additional benefits, such as shorter recovery periods and reduced costs (in comparison to undergoing these at separate times).

Not all facial procedures can be performed at one time. This will depend on the length and extent of the procedure.