Rhinoplasty is the aesthetic reshaping of the nose, otherwise known as a nose job. It’s one of the simpler surgical procedures that you can have done.  Many people who feel they’ve been born with less than perfect features opt to have rhinoplasty. The surgery simply helps people feel better about how they look. Other reasons for having the operation are to alleviate breathing problems due to a deviated septum, for instance, or in the event of accidental injury.

The actual procedure differs from patient to patient. Some have the actual size of their nose reduced, relative to the rest of their facial features. Others have the nose width at the bridge, the size of the nostrils, or the position of the nostrils changed. Bumps and depressions can be removed or smoothened out. The tip of the nose may be altered to appear less upturned or to improve nasal asymmetry. Flared nostrils may be made smaller and less pronounced. The profile can be made more aquiline or less uneven.

Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular cosmetic procedures performed in the US today. In 2007 alone, there were an estimated 285,000 rhinoplasty surgeries done.

There are two main types of rhinoplasty: open and closed. Open rhinoplasty is performed when major changes are need.  The skin separating the nostrils is cut open and lifted up revealing the underlying nasal anatomy. In a closed rhinoplasty, the surgeon simply makes minor incisions within the nose. The skin is lifted away from the bone and cartilage, which can then be reworked.
The actual procedure can take anywhere from half an hour to three hours depending on the type of work being done. Typically, a rhinoplasty costs around $4,300 dollars. Anaesthesia costs anywhere from $600 to $1000 while the doctor may charge $1000-$2000; facility fees usually range from $700-$1000.