The published scientific data from the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF) shows that surgery in an accredited office-based surgical facility in the appropriately selected patient with a fully trained anesthesia provider is safe. Complications, while unlikely, can occur in any surgical setting, including a hospital. Whether you are a reasonable candidate for a rhinoplasty in an office-based surgical facility depends on your anatomy, your medical history, realistic expectations of the outcome and an understanding of the pros and cons of the procedure. Safety should always be the main concern. The procedures should be performed in an ambulatory facility that is accredited by one of the national organizations like the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgical Facilities (AAAASF) or in a licensed hospital. The plastic surgeon performing the procedure should have hospital privileges to perform the same type of procedure that will be performed in the private office-based facility. Keep in mind that following the advice of any surgeon on this or any other web site who proposes to tell you what to do without: examining you, physically feeling the tissue, assessing your desired outcome, and taking a full medical history, as well as discussing the pros and cons of each operative option would not be in your best interest. I would suggest your plastic surgeon be certified by The American Board of Plastic Surgery and ideally a member of the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery (ASAPS) that you trust and are comfortable with, and discuss your concerns with that surgeon in person. That way, you can have a better idea what is safe and makes the most sense for you. Robert Singer, MD FACS La Jolla, California