FACESURGICAL
Rhinoplasty in Delafield
A nose in quiet agreement with your face.
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to improve facial harmony, correct structural irregularities, or enhance nasal breathing. The procedure can address concerns such as a dorsal hump, wide or bulbous tip, asymmetry, or a crooked nose, and may be performed for cosmetic, functional, or combined purposes.
At a Glance
- Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed cosmetic surgical procedures in the United States, with approximately 220,000 procedures annually[1]
- Two approaches are used: open rhinoplasty (external incision on the columella) and closed rhinoplasty (incisions entirely inside the nose)[4]
- Reported revision rates reach up to 15%, while complication rates are approximately 3%[4]
- Final nasal contour may take up to a year to fully refine as swelling gradually resolves[3]
Before & after
Real faces, real results.
Before & after
Rhinoplasty
Before & after
Rhinoplasty
Before & after
Rhinoplasty
Individual results vary. Photos shown with patient consent.
Overview
Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed facial plastic surgeries, with approximately 220,000 procedures performed annually in the United States according to ASPS data. It can modify the size, shape, and proportions of the nose by adjusting bone, cartilage, and soft tissue.
Two primary surgical approaches exist. Open rhinoplasty uses a small incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) to provide full visualization of the nasal framework. Closed (endonasal) rhinoplasty uses incisions entirely within the nasal passages, resulting in no visible external scarring and typically less postoperative swelling.
Rhinoplasty can be cosmetic, functional, or both. Cosmetic rhinoplasty addresses the external appearance of the nose, while functional rhinoplasty corrects structural problems that impair breathing, such as a deviated septum or narrowed nasal valve. Many patients undergo a combined procedure to address both concerns simultaneously.
What to expect
- Consultation and nasal analysis including photography and discussion of goals
- Preoperative assessment of nasal anatomy, airway function, and skin thickness
- Administration of general anesthesia or intravenous sedation with local anesthesia
- Incisions placed inside the nose (closed approach) or across the columella (open approach)
- Elevation of nasal skin to expose the bone and cartilage framework
- Reshaping of the dorsum, tip, and nasal bones as planned
- Harvesting and placement of cartilage grafts if needed for structural support or augmentation
- Correction of septal deviation or internal valve narrowing if functional improvement is indicated
- Closure of incisions and placement of internal splints or soft packing
- Application of an external nasal splint to protect and support the nose
How a rhinoplasty works
- The surgeon accesses the nasal framework through either an open approach (incision across the columella) or a closed approach (incisions within the nasal passages), then elevates the nasal skin to expose the underlying bone and cartilage.
- For dorsal hump reduction, excess bone and cartilage along the nasal bridge are carefully removed or reshaped. Osteotomies (controlled bone fractures) may be performed to narrow the nasal bridge or correct asymmetry.
- Nasal tip refinement involves reshaping, repositioning, or grafting the lower lateral cartilages using suture techniques, cartilage trimming, or structural grafts to achieve the desired projection, rotation, and definition.
- Cartilage grafts harvested from the nasal septum, ear, or occasionally the rib may be used to augment, support, or reconstruct areas of the nose. Spreader grafts placed along the dorsal septum can widen the internal nasal valve and improve breathing.
- After reshaping is complete, the nasal skin is redraped over the new framework, incisions are closed, and internal splints or packing may be placed. An external nasal splint is applied to support the nose during initial healing.
When it's recommended
- Dorsal hump or bump on the bridge of the nose
- Wide, bulbous, drooping, upturned, or hooked nasal tip
- Nasal asymmetry or crooked nose
- Nose size disproportionate to facial balance
- Wide nasal bridge or enlarged nostrils
- Deviated septum causing breathing difficulty
- Nasal obstruction due to internal valve collapse
- Nasal deformity from prior trauma or injury
- Congenital nasal deformity
Is a rhinoplasty right for you?
Reach out to learn more from Dr. Lucas Boehm.
Concerns it addresses
Recovery & aftercare
- An external nasal splint is typically worn for approximately one week after surgery
- Internal splints or packing, if placed, are usually removed within a few days
- Bruising around the eyes generally resolves within 10 to 14 days
- Initial swelling subsides within a few weeks, though subtle swelling may persist for several months
- Most patients return to desk work and light daily activities within 1 to 2 weeks
- Strenuous exercise and contact sports should be avoided for 4 to 6 weeks
- Eyeglasses should not rest on the nasal bridge for several weeks to prevent displacement
- The final nasal contour may take up to a year to fully refine as residual swelling resolves
Alternatives
- Nonsurgical rhinoplasty using injectable dermal fillers (for minor contour corrections only)
- Septoplasty alone (for functional nasal obstruction without cosmetic changes)
- Alar base reduction (for isolated nostril width concerns)
Related treatments
How much does a rhinoplasty cost?
A rhinoplasty at Consona with Dr. Boehm costs around $12,500. The exact amount depends on your unique goals and treatment needs. Schedule a consultation today to learn more and receive a personalized quote.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to improve its appearance, correct structural problems, or enhance breathing. It can address concerns such as a bump on the bridge, a wide or drooping tip, nasal asymmetry, or breathing obstruction caused by a deviated septum.
- Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia or sedation, so patients do not feel pain during the procedure. After surgery, most patients experience nasal congestion, mild to moderate discomfort, and pressure rather than sharp pain. Discomfort is typically manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter pain medication.
- Rhinoplasty is generally considered safe when performed by a qualified, board-certified surgeon. It is one of the most commonly performed facial surgeries, with complication rates reported at approximately 3%. As with any surgery, there are risks that are discussed during consultation.
- Most patients return to desk work within 1 to 2 weeks. An external splint is worn for about one week, and bruising around the eyes typically fades within 10 to 14 days. While initial swelling resolves within a few weeks, the final nasal shape may take up to a year to fully refine.
- Open rhinoplasty uses a small incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) for full visualization of the nasal structures. Closed rhinoplasty places all incisions inside the nose, leaving no visible external scar and typically resulting in less swelling. The approach is selected based on the specific changes needed.
- Rhinoplasty may not be appropriate for individuals whose facial growth is not yet complete, those with body dysmorphic disorder or unrealistic expectations, patients with active nasal infections, or individuals with uncontrolled medical conditions that increase surgical risk. A thorough evaluation during consultation helps determine candidacy.
Rhinoplasty risks & candidacy
Who should avoid this
- Body dysmorphic disorder or unrealistic expectations regarding surgical outcomes
- Incomplete facial growth (typically before age 15 in females and 17 in males)
- Active nasal or sinus infection
- Uncontrolled bleeding disorders or use of anticoagulant medications without medical clearance
- Active cocaine use (causes mucosal inflammation and compromised nasal blood supply)
- Poorly controlled depression or other psychiatric conditions (surgery should be deferred until stabilized)
- Significant medical conditions that increase surgical risk (uncontrolled diabetes, severe cardiopulmonary disease)
- Less than one year since a previous rhinoplasty (final results are not yet apparent)
Possible risks
- Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes (expected and typically resolves within 2 to 3 weeks)
- Bleeding or nasal congestion in the early postoperative period
- Infection at the surgical site (uncommon with proper wound care)
- Nasal septal perforation (rare, may require additional surgical repair)
- Change in skin sensation or persistent numbness around the nose
- Breathing difficulty due to internal scarring or structural changes
- Asymmetry or contour irregularity requiring revision
- Scarring (visible columellar scar with open approach, typically fades to a fine line)
- Unsatisfactory aesthetic result requiring revision surgery
- Anesthesia-related risks
Your surgeon
Care that respects what makes you, you.
Dr. Lucas Boehm is a Wisconsin native, board-certified, fellowship-trained plastic surgeon and the founder of Consona Plastic Surgery and Aesthetics. His practice is dedicated exclusively to aesthetic surgery of the face, nose, breast, and body, with particular expertise in deep plane facelifts, rhinoplasty, and aesthetic breast surgery. He completed his undergraduate education at the University of Wisconsin–Madison, earned his medical degree from the Medical College of Wisconsin, and completed his plastic surgery residency there as well. He then pursued an Aesthetic Society-endorsed fellowship in aesthetic surgery under the mentorship of Dr. Bradley Calobrace in Louisville, Kentucky. Known for meticulous attention to detail, he approaches each case with precision and intention. His philosophy emphasizes harmony and balance – enhancing what is already beautiful while ensuring every change feels natural, thoughtful, and uniquely you.
- Board-certified
- Am. Board of Plastic Surgery
- Fellowship-trained
- Aesthetic surgery
- 12+ years
- In practice
Sources & references
This article draws on 6 sources, including peer-reviewed research, leading medical institutions.
Government & research
Medical institutions
Medically reviewed by Dr. Lucas Boehm, MD · Last reviewed: 2026-06-13