Barely Noticeable Difference in Nose After Rhinoplasty?

Question

I had some work done on my nose, and feel depressed because all my close friends and my family (mother,brother and sister) say they can't notice a difference.One of my best friends even said "Man, your nose is the same, only a tad bit straighter, BIG WASTE OF MONEY!" Is this probably because they don't remember my old nose? I mean my mother even said that. What are your inputs?

C. Spencer Cochran, MD · Answer

Rhinoplasty surgeons frequently say that "a good nose job is one in which other people cant tell that the nose has been operated on."  Obviously, patients hope for an improvement that they, themselves, notice.  Depending on how long it has been since the surgery (less than six months), the result may become more apparent.  It is also very common for patients to feel "down" about their results during the recovery period.
Be patient. Rhinoplasty results can take time to become apparent, especially if only subtle changes were made. The amount of swelling and how long it persists after rhinoplasty depends on several factors such as the surgeon's technique, open versus closed approach, whether the nasal bones were broken, and the number of prior nasal surgeries.
Discuss your concerns with your surgeon. He or she can tell you whether or not you are on the right track.

Sam Jejurikar, MD · Answer

In your question, you don't state how far out you are from surgery. If you're less than 6-12 months from the time of surgery, you still likely have some swelling which is distorting the appearance. I tell all of my rhinoplasty patients to delay making any final conclusions about the appearance of their nose until they're at least 6 months out from surgery.
Regardless of the timing of surgery, although your friends and family are making negative comments, the person whose opinion matters the most is you. Are you happy with your appearance? If not, you should share your specific concerns with your surgeon. I'm sure he or she would welcome the opportunity to review your complaints and address them in an appropriate manner.
Best of luck!

Richard W. Fleming, MD (retired) · Answer

First, get copies of your pre-operative  pictures. It is amazing how quickly we forget how we looked. If your surgery has been recent, you will see changes in the near future.  After healing is complete, you should be the one to decide if your expectations were satisfied.

Barely Noticeable Difference in Nose After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (3)

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.

Barely Noticeable Difference in Nose After Rhinoplasty?

Answers (3)

Browse related questions

Recommended reading

Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty

Our mission is to create a world where every investment in modern beauty is Worth It.