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Adults, uncomfortable with their appearance, may feel less confident in social situations, and teenagers can be subjected to teasing due to nose shape and size. The only way to improve the aesthetic appeal of the nose is with a custom surgery called rhinoplasty, or a “nose job.”

The Rhinoplasty Procedure at Gold Coast Plastic Surgery

Dr. Moynihan examining patient nose

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as nasal surgery or a nose job, is a plastic surgery procedure designed to alter the external appearance of the nose. Changes may include a reduction or increase in the overall size, the removal of a hump, alterations of a bulbous nasal tip, or repair of poorly shaped nostrils. Functional problems such as chronic congestion can also be corrected with rhinoplasty surgery for healthier breathing and better sleep.

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Before & After

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What can a rhinoplasty do for my look?

Rhinoplasty is a surgery to dramatically improve the shape, size, or projection of the nose. The surgical procedure can correct:

  • A hump on the bridge
  • An overly large nose structure
  • A bulbous tip
  • A hanging tip
  • A pinched tip
  • An uneven nasal structure
  • Overly long or wide nostrils
  • A flatter bridge
  • A wide bridge

A custom rhinoplasty can also correct breathing issues such as chronic congestion.

    Choosing the best surgeon for your rhinoplasty

    Rhinoplasty is considered one of the most difficult cosmetic facial surgeries – many plastic surgeons avoid it altogether. Through more than 15 years of experience, Dr. Moynihan — one of the top rhinoplasty surgeons in Chicago — has developed his own innovative techniques and is known for achieving superior outcomes. His rhinoplasty procedure is considered among the safest and most effective available. As a leader in rhinoplasty surgery, Gold Coast Plastic Surgery is sought out by patients around the Chicago area, as well as those from other parts of the country and from abroad.

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    Why choose Gold Coast Plastic Surgery for nasal surgery?

    Dr. Moynihan believes the result of rhinoplasty should not be obvious to the observer. In other words, it should fade to the background and allow your natural beauty to shine through. He does not subscribe to fads regarding human anatomy and strives to create a natural result that is not impacted by ever-changing social media influences. Due to this driving philosophy, Dr. Moynihan generally attracts discerning, mentally mature, professional patients from all walks of life.

    Dr. Moynihan is double-board-certified by the American Board of Otolaryngology and the American Board of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery (ABFPRS). He trained at Villanova, Loyola, and the prestigious Rousso Facial Plastic Surgery Center and currently serves as a Clinical Assistant Professor at Loyola University Medical Center and Rush University Medical Center. 

    The rhinoplasty strategy

    Dr. Moynihan believes that, unlike the lips or eyes, the nose is not a glamorous body part, and the end result has to be achieved using three considerations:

    • The aspects of your nose have led you to the desire to undergo rhinoplasty 
    • Your ethnicity and heritage
    • Balance among the three subunits of the nose (tip, bridge, and nostrils) 
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    Specialized rhinoplasty surgical techniques

    For many patients, there is insufficient septal cartilage to be used in the surgery, either due to prior procedures or calcified cartilage. In these cases, he may use allograft costal cartilage from a medical tissue bank. The advantage of using this type of cartilage is that it does not require removing a piece of rib cartilage from the client through an incision on the chest, which brings added challenges during recovery. He has used this type of tissue for over seven years.

    It is completely safe and reliable and has never led to the rejection of the tissue or the transmission of disease. Dr Moynihan has added the use of a Piezotome while addressing the bony structure of the nose.  The Piezotome uses ultrasound to cut bone and prevents damaging soft tissue surrounding the bone.  This allows more precise bony alteration as well as a significant reduction in swelling, bruising, discomfort and downtime.

    Your private consultation

    • Before scheduling a rhinoplasty, you will have a private consultation with Dr. Moynihan.
    • This initial visit will provide the opportunity to develop mutual trust. Dr. Moynihan will start out by performing a brief physical exam of your inner and outer nasal structures.
    • As a leading rhinoplasty specialist in Chicago, Dr. Moynihan reviews your medical history and current medications, and will speak with you so he fully understands your aesthetic goals. He will explain the surgical and less invasive options to enhance nose structure.
    • Dr. Moynihan will use cutting-edge computer imagery and before and after photos of his recent rhinoplasty patients to help you visualize how you will look once your nose is reshaped and refined.
    • If rhinoplasty is determined to be the most appropriate procedure for you, a unique surgical plan will be created.

    Common Rhinoplasty Indications

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    Photo imaging

    Have you ever wondered what you would look like if you had a less prominent nasal bridge, a shorter tip, or a narrower bridge and nostrils? Well, now you can! At Gold Coast Plastic Surgery, we have the most advanced technology to take your current photo and transform it to show you what you can look like after surgery. This is a great way for patients to communicate their desires and concerns to Dr. Moynihan. The end result is geared to be balanced and in harmony with your other facial features, bringing out the best in your natural beauty.

    Rhinoplasty timeline

    The Rhinoplasty Procedure

    Dr. Moynihan’s rhinoplasty procedure will take between one and four hours to complete under general anesthesia. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis in our private, onsite, AAAASF-certified, state-of-the-art surgical suite. The corrections to your nose will be performed, although you will not remember the surgery and will only become alert after it is over. Once completed, you are free to return home, under the care of another adult, to rest and recover.

    Open Rhinoplasty

    Open rhinoplasty is performed using a small, trans-columellar incision at the base of the nose, between the nostrils. Through this access to the structure, Dr. Moynihan will remove excess tissue, reshape the cartilage, and may place a nasal implant, depending on what is planned for your nose reshaping. Once corrections have been made, the incisions are sutured closed. Temporary scarring does occur, although the incision lines are virtually invisible, well hidden within the natural curvature of the nose.

    After surgery

    After rhinoplasty, you will recover in our recovery suite, under observation by a board-certified medical professional. Initially, you will likely feel groggy and tired and possibly nauseous from the general anesthesia. A feeling as if you have congestion or a “head cold” is common. You will not be able to breathe through your nose at first, as the nostrils will be packed.

    The First 24 Hours:

    The first 24 hours after surgery are the most difficult part of the recovery process. Knowing what to expect can ensure stress-free recuperation:

    • Moderate discomfort and tenderness
    • Headache
    • Swelling at the surgical site
    • Temporary bruising
    • Bloody nasal discharge
    • Numbness of the nasal tip
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    Potential complications – what to watch for

    Rhinoplasty is considered a safe, effective procedure for corrective aesthetic and functional problems of the nose. As it is an invasive procedure, there is always a small chance of complications. The risks from nose jobs, although rare, can include excess bleeding, infection, and scarring. By choosing a reputable, well-trained cosmetic surgeon, the chance of complications is greatly reduced.

    The stages of recovery

    • 5 to 7 days: Swollen and with some bruising possible, cast and sutures are removed.
    • 7 to 14 days: The majority of swelling has resolved, and you are presentable in public
    • 6 weeks: Virtual or office visit to assess healing. 
    • 6 weeks to 6 months: The swelling will vary on a day-to-day basis, but you will be presentable in public. Cell phone pictures will still not match the way your nose looks in person.
    • 6 months: In-office checkup 
    • 6 months to 18 months: Depending on skin thickness, the residual swelling will reduce, and cell phone pics will match the intended results.
    • 12 months: In one year, the recovery is fully complete in most cases.

    Dr. Moynihan is double-board-certified by the American Board of Facial Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Otolaryngology-Head and Neck Surgery. His exemplary training and vast experience with rhinoplasty provide patients with a safe, rewarding, exceptionally balanced outcome.

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    What our clients say about rhinoplasty

      • One of the most rewarding aspects of rhinoplasty is listening to what our clients have to say, which typically is along the lines of:
      • Healing was faster than expected
      • Was surprisingly not painful 
      • The early stages of recovery involve mouth breathing, which was challenging
      • I am happy already at week one 
      • Long term, I am so happy, and I can’t believe that no one has said anything.

      Gallery

      Explore our before & After Gallery
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      Most common additional procedures

      The most common procedure performed with a rhinoplasty is chin augmentation, with a silastic (silicone rubber) implant. Augmentation of the chin area can create a beautiful balance with the aesthetics of the nose. An appropriately augmented chin can significantly enhance the results of rhinoplasty.

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      Benefits of nose reshaping surgery

      • Increased self-confidence is one of the biggest benefits of rhinoplasty surgery in Chicago. Research shows that it is natural for humans to look at other people’s eyes first, followed by their noses. This may come as no surprise considering that the nose is your face’s most prominent feature. It will readily attract attention — the kind you want or the kind you wish didn’t happen.
      • A septoplasty can help improve breathing by straightening the bone and cartilage that separates the nostrils. For those who struggle to breathe through the nose, a septoplasty can be performed along with rhinoplasty to restore breathing function.
      • Top rhinoplasty surgeons understand that symmetrical and straight noses can quickly add to overall facial appeal, while an uneven or oddly shaped nose draws attention away from your other attractive features.
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      Rhinoplasty FAQs

      Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

      What happens during a consultation?

      Where is the rhinoplasty performed?

      What is the anesthesia used for rhinoplasty?

      How is rhinoplasty performed?

      How long is the surgical time for rhinoplasty?

      How much pain should I expect after rhinoplasty?

      What is rhinoplasty recovery like?

      How much time should I plan to take off from work after my rhinoplasty procedure?

      Can I exercise after my rhinoplasty procedure?

      When are the stitches removed after the rhinoplasty procedure?

      Are there any risks associated with the rhinoplasty procedure?

      Will my insurance company cover the cost of rhinoplasty?

      Can I finance my rhinoplasty procedure?

      Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

      Healthy individuals who are seeking an improvement in nose shape, projection, or width are typically good candidates for rhinoplasty. Ideal candidates will have realistic expectations regarding surgery, recovery, and their final appearance.

      What happens during a consultation?

      During the consultation in our state-of-the-art, private downtown Chicago office, the structure of your nose and face will be evaluated, your medical history reviewed, and your personal aesthetic goals discussed. Aspects of the procedure, such as the anesthesia, the recovery, the risks, and the costs will be explained.

      Where is the rhinoplasty performed?

      Dr. Moynihan performs his rhinoplasty procedures at his private surgery center. You can expect the highest level of patient health and safety, as our surgical center is AAAASF-certified, offering the level of patient care and safety found in the best hospitals.

      What is the anesthesia used for rhinoplasty?

      General anesthesia is used for rhinoplasty.

      How is rhinoplasty performed?

      Open rhinoplasty is the surgical technique employed by Dr. Moynihan. This approach involves a small incision made on the strip of skin and cartilage between the nostrils, hidden at the base where the nose structure makes it virtually impossible to see once healed.

      How long is the surgical time for rhinoplasty?

      The surgical time for rhinoplasty will depend on the extent and complexity of the surgery. Generally speaking, rhinoplasty may take anywhere from one and a half to four hours to complete.

      How much pain should I expect after rhinoplasty?

      It is normal to expect some minor discomfort after undergoing nose reshaping surgery. Your nose and head may ache for the first few days. Dr. Moynihan will prescribe medication to help you stay comfortable during this phase of healing.

      What is rhinoplasty recovery like?

      You can expect the rhinoplasty recovery time to take about seven days. Bruising and swelling are common, especially around the eyes. The majority of swelling will begin to fade in about five to nine days. After five days, the external cast and stitches are removed.

      How much time should I plan to take off from work after my rhinoplasty procedure?

      Patients normally feel well enough to return to work about seven days after Rhinoplasty surgery in Chicago.

      Can I exercise after my rhinoplasty procedure?

      After a Rhinoplasty, you will be able to resume light exercise after about 10 days.

      When are the stitches removed after the rhinoplasty procedure?

      The stitches are removed one week after the Rhinoplasty procedure.

      Are there any risks associated with the rhinoplasty procedure?

      Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure, therefore has the chance for complications including infection, scarring, cosmetic asymmetry, septal perforation, and epistaxis (nosebleed).

      Will my insurance company cover the cost of rhinoplasty?

      Gold Coast Plastic Surgery is self-pay and does not accept any insurance at this time. You can speak to us about options for financing your procedure.

      Can I finance my rhinoplasty procedure?

      Yes, patients have the option of paying with cash, credit card, or with healthcare financing through CareCredit.

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