Nose Surgery & Nose Reshaping by Dr Scott Turner, Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney
A Nose Job or nose reshaping is a popular surgical procedure that can give you a better-shaped nose and improved breathing. Dr Scott Turner FRACS (Plas) is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon in Sydney NSW. He can help remove your nose hump, straighten nose asymmetry and give you a better-looking nose tip. If you experience embarrassment or lower self-esteem due to the way your nose looks or functions, then nose surgery could help.
There are many common nose imperfections, such as a dorsal hump, a nose deformity due to trauma or a broken nose, or a nasal tip that hangs too low. You may want to consider a nasal surgical procedure.
What Is a Nose Job?
A Nose Job or a Nose Reshaping procedure is a surgical procedure that reshapes the bones and the cartilage of your nose to improve its look and function. If you think that your nose looks less than ideal or if you feel that it does not match your face, consider one of the following nose surgeries:
- A Rhinoplasty is the most popular nose surgery. Typically for aesthetic or cosmetic improvements, A Rhino can also help improve breathing.
- A Tip rhino or a Tip rhinoplasty – A tip rhinoplasty or a mini nose job is a surgical procedure that reshapes the cartilage of the tip of your nose. This procedure can augment (enlarge) or reduce the tip of your nose. Tip rhinoplasty is also done when there is an asymmetry in the nostrils, as they can be of different proportions and may deviate to one side or another.
- A Septoplasty procedure – A septoplasty is a surgical procedure done on the septum of the nose. The septum is the physical barrier in the middle between the two nostrils, and it can sometimes be misshapen. If you experience problems breathing on one side of the nose or nose shape irregularities, this may be the right procedure for you.
- An Alarplasty procedure – An alarplasty procedure corrects the size of your nostrils. If you think that your nostrils are too large, too narrow or too wide, the alarplasty procedure may help. In an alarplasty procedure, Dr Turner will surgically remove a minor portion of your nostrils for a more symmetrical look and better facial proportion.
What Are The Benefits Of Nose Reshaping & Nose Surgery
There are many benefits of nose reshaping. You may consider nose surgery benefits such as:
- Improved symmetry of your nose
- Improved aesthetic look and better shape of your nose
- Improved nasal function – easier breathing
- The dorsal hump is removed or your nostrils are reduced
- You look younger, and your face is more refreshed and vibrant
- You feel healthier and are better at sports (less sore throat, less difficulty breathing, less getting tired too fast),
- Improved self-esteem and self-image
Open or Closed Nose Surgery
Nose procedures can be done either open (via an external incision under your nose) or closed (no external incision). Depending on your needs and your case, Dr Turner will suggest the appropriate method for your nose surgery:
- Open Nose Surgery (Open rhinoplasty) – Open rhinoplasty makes an incision that starts under your nostril on the interior part of the nostrils and continues over the columella – the outer divide between the nostrils. This is a great approach since it lets the surgeon see the tissue they work on and, in some cases, yields better aesthetic results than closed rhinoplasty.
- Closed Nose Surgery (Closed rhinoplasty) – A closed nose surgery or blind rhinoplasty relies on two incisions inside your nostrils. This way, there is no scar on your columella. However, this approach is not best suited for everybody since the surgeon has limited access and must rely on palpation to feel some of the results during the surgery.
Different Types of Nose Surgery
1. Reduction Rhinoplasty
Reduction Rhinoplasty aims to reduce the way a larger nose can dominate the facial profile and is the most common type of rhinoplasty requested by both men and women.
A mistake people often make is assuming that simply reducing the size of the nose will produce a positive outcome. It is important to appreciate that when the chin projection is insufficient, the profile seems to be dominated even by a small or average nose, but the solution may be to augment the chin and possibly do a smaller reduction or no reduction to the nose.
2. Tip Rhinoplasty
In some patients, only modification of the nasal tip and nostrils is desired. Many complain that their nasal tip is too bulbous or boxy in appearance, too projecting, too wide, over-rotated (turned up) or under-rotated (plunging nasal tip). In some cases, the muscles of the upper lip can also affect the appearance of the nasal tip with smiling.
Modification of the nasal tip can be achieved using suture techniques, cartilage grafting, and cartilage resection; often requiring multiple techniques used in combination to achieve the desired result. The exact method used is determined by a number of factors, such as the condition of the cartilage, the severity of the deformity, the thickness of the skin, and the relationship between the appearance of the nose and the face.
3. Augmentation Rhinoplasty (Ethnic Rhinoplasty)
Augmentation Rhinoplasty involves increasing the projection of the bridge and the tip of the nose, is more commonly requested by patients from ethnic groups that have a softer cartilage support to the nose and a less defined nasal bridge. This is frequently combined with alar reduction (reduce the width of nostrils) to give a more refined nasal projection.
Materials used to support the tip and augment the bridge can be artificial or taken from your own tissues (autologous bone or cartilage). The use of artificial implants for augmentation, while widely popular as it is a simpler procedure, also carries with them higher risks of infection and failure requiring revision. So in our practice, we prefer to use autologous cartilage as it has shows excellent long-term stability.
4. Revision Rhinoplasty
In a number of instances, the outcome of a nose surgery or rhinoplasty is unsatisfactory as a result of technical errors, healing problems, or injuries after the first operation. While often the area of concern may seem minor, the undertaking of revision rhinoplasty cannot be underrated. Even a small correction requires a full open rhinoplasty technique that is more complex to perform than the original surgery with a longer period of time to settle down postoperatively.
Revision rhinoplasty requires experience and dedication from your nose revision expert, as well as an understanding of the type of changes that the first operation would have created. Revision rhinoplasty often involves the use of grafts, commonly cartilage from inside the nose but also from other areas (rib, ear).
5. Septoplasty
The nasal septum can have a profound influence on both the appearance of the nose as well as the function of the nasal airways. A deviation or curvature of the nasal septum can create the appearance of a crooked nose and also change the appearance of the nasal tip. Septoplasty is often done in conjunction with a rhinoplasty.
A septoplasty may also be performed when extra cartilage is required during rhinoplasty to help strengthen the cartilage structure of the nose to maintain its shape and prevent collapse.
6. Alarplasty
Nostril Reduction Surgery or Alarplasty may also be performed to develop better nasal symmetry and improve the look of your nostrils.
About the Nose Surgery Procedure
During your nose procedure, Dr Turner will undertake several steps to give you your desired nose:
- Dr Turner checks in and reviews you again
- Dr Turner’s anaesthetist will put you under general anaesthesia
- Dr Turner will make markings where the incision will go and he will make the incision
- Your bone and cartilage will be reshaped to give you a more balanced look
- Your incisions will be sutured
Depending on your case, Dr Turner may choose to use either standard sutures, which will be removed around a week after your rhinoplasty or dissolvable sutures, which will fall off on their own after one to two weeks. In the inner nostrils, he may place long-term dissolvable sutures that can take up to several months to be absorbed. You may be released from hospital on the same day as the procedure.
Recovery After a Nose Job
A nose job or a rhinoplasty is a complex surgical procedure. Because of the limited blood supply to the nose, nose job recovery may take longer to heal than some other surgical procedures. The swelling and bruising are usually cleared within two weeks after the procedure, but you should allow months to heal the bone and the cartilage. You may not see the full nose surgery result for 6 months or more.
The scars may take around a year to fully mature but will be mostly invisible since Dr Scott Turner will place them in hard-to-see places, such as the columella and the inner part of your nostrils. After the healing and fading of the scar are finished, you could opt for scar-minimisation treatment that your surgeon may suggest as the best for your skin type.
Am I A Good Candidate For Nose Surgery or Reshaping?
Nose surgery may help improve
- A birth-related nose deformity
- Nose asymmetry
- Nasal tip that hangs too low
- Dorsal hump or nose hump
- A nose that is misshapen due to trauma (usually from sports or a fall-related injury)
- A nasal deviation that makes it difficult to breathe
- Enlarged nostrils
To get an optimal result you’ll need to
- Follow your nose surgeon’s specific recovery instructions
- Not smoke or are willing to quit for six weeks before and after surgery
- Not drink excessive amounts of alcohol
- Are healthy and in good condition
- Have realistic expectations of what nose surgery may achieve in your case,
Nose Job Costs & Prices – How Much Is Nose Job In Sydney NSW?
The final cost of your nose job in Newcastle and Sydney NSW has many elements. In general, you can expect to pay:
- An initial consultation fee
- Your surgeon’s fee
- The hospital fees
- The anaesthetist and assistant fees (if req)
- Any other costs that may arise during the process include tests, medication, or unplanned follow-up visits.
The price of nose surgery in Australia varies widely, and it can be priced anywhere from about A$5.000 for a minor surgery to tens of thousands of dollars, depending on the work that is done. A less expensive surgery usually means lower quality. Choose your nose surgeon carefully as it a very complex procedure.
For an estimate of your own Nose Surgery price in Sydney or Newcastle please phone 1300 437758 – contact Dr Turner’s team or download the Price Guide on the Pricing page.
Why is a nose job so expensive?
A nose job is a very complex procedure that demands your nose surgeon has extensive experience and education. Your surgeon should also have extensive knowledge of the human body, and the vascular system, and an artistic eye for details. Please do NOT choose your nose surgeon based on price. There are some things that can’t be fixed.
Funding Your Nose Surgery
Depending on whether your nose surgery is functional or cosmetic, you may be eligible for partial or full coverage of your nose surgery costs by Medicare and Health insurance. If you experience nasal deviation, or inability to breathe properly on one or both of your nostrils, you may be eligible for a partial subsidy by Medicare. However, Medicare may only cover the functional part of your procedure and will not cover aesthetic nose surgery or cosmetic rhinoplasty. You must meet the strict medicare criteria to be eligible for an item number and health insurance. You must also have the correct level of health insurance coverage.
You may be eligible to use your Super Fund to pay for your nose surgery or you may consider a medical finance company for a nose surgery payment plan. See the Nose Surgery medical finance page for more details
Will Medicare and insurance cover a nose job?
Medicare and private health insurance may cover a part of the cost of your nose job if it is related to restoring your nose’s functionality. If you combine a dorsal hump removal with functional septoplasty or turbinectomy, Medicare will help cover the turbinectomy or septoplasty, while you will have to pay for the dorsal hump removal.
Rhinoplasty FAQs about Nose Reshaping
What’s the difference between a rhinoplasty and nose job?
A nose job is a broader term that includes rhinoplasty, tip rhinoplasty, septoplasty and alarplasty etc. A rhinoplasty involves reshaping the exterior of the nose by adjusting the underlying bone and cartilage.
Can a nose job change your face?
Yes, a nose job can change the proportions of your face. If you choose a specialist plastic surgeon, they will be able to change your nose, so it looks good on your face. On the other hand, an inexperienced doctor or surgeon may bring about an undesired change to your nose. Rhinoplasty patients also report looking some three years younger on average after their surgery.
Do nose jobs leave scars?
Yes, nose jobs leave scars. The scars are usually hidden in the interior of your nostrils. In the case of open rhinoplasty, there will be a small, barely visible scar across your columella, which will fade over time.
Are nose jobs permanent?
Yes, nose jobs are permanent. You should take note that even after rhinoplasty, your nose will change just as your body changes during the healing period. As you age, you may notice slight changes in the nose, such as growth.
How long is nose job surgery?
A nose job surgery generally lasts some 3-4 hours. During this time, your nose surgeon will put you under anaesthesia, remove any excess tissues, reshape the nose bridge and the tip and apply sutures. You will usually be released the same day.
How painful is a nose surgery?
Nose surgery is done under general anaesthesia to avoid experiencing any pain during the surgical procedure. After the procedure, you will be on pain medication during the healing period. Most patients say that they experience discomfort during the healing phase, not pain.
What happens during a nose job?
During a nose job, your nose surgeon will put you under anaesthetic. They will proceed to make the incisions and reshape the bone and the cartilage that may be the source of your dissatisfaction. The surgeon will then apply the sutures, and you will usually be released on the same day.
What age can I get a nose job?
Your nose can continue to grow until you are around 25. You should ideally be at least 18 years of age for a nose job. Doing a nose job on a younger patient may give less-than-ideal results as the patient grows and may require a further revision.
What should I know before getting a nose job?
Before getting a nose job, you will need to know:
- That you need at least two weeks off work
- That you need to find the best nose surgeon to do your surgery
- That there are risks and complications associated with any nose surgery
- That you can always contact your surgeon with any concerns, you may have.
- You may need a revision nose surgery
Surgeries Combined with a Nose Job
A rhinoplasty procedure itself can be a complex procedure that can remove your dorsal hump and remove irregularities in the nasal bridge. It can also include other procedures, such as septoplasty and alarplasty.
To reduce recovery time, save some money you can combine nose surgery with:
- Breast or Body Surgery including Liposuction or Fat Transfer
- Eyelid surgery or Browlift
- Facial rejuvenation or liposuction
- Nipple correction, Labiaplasty and Clitoral hood reduction and many more
Contact Dr Scott Turner today for your nose consultation and advice on what can be combined with your nose job.
Planning Your Nose Job Patient Journey
When planning your nose job, pay attention to:
- Always choose a top nose surgeon for your nose job. Any other doctor or surgeon could cause damage that may be irreversible. Your nose is one of the focal points of your face, so do not let just anyone operate on you.
- Prepare well for initial rhinoplasty screening – think about what bothers you with your nose and what you want to achieve,
- Follow your surgeon’s advice on preparation – a healthy diet and regular exercise can sometimes make all the difference between a quick recovery and a recovery with complications. Avoid smoking!
How to Find The Best Nose Surgeon In Sydney NSW
To find the best nose plastic surgeon in Newcastle and Sydney NSW, you should pay attention to:
- The qualifications that your surgeon has
- The experience of your plastic surgeon,
- Their before and after patient pictures – to get an idea of what to look for see good nose job before and after photos,
- The price – a price that is too low is a risky nose surgery. It may be done by inexperienced doctor and may not include all you need for a safe procedure and an optimal recovery.
Why Choose Dr Scott Turner?
Dr Scott Turner FRACS (Plas) is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon who has performed hundreds of nose surgeries. He can perform a full range of nose surgeries: Read his reviews and look at his results and past patient photos.
Glossary for Nose Anatomy
- General anaesthesia – the type of anaesthesia used in rhinoplasty – you sleep during the procedure.
- Nasal Bridge – the line starting at the base of your nose, between the eyebrows, and going on to the tip of your nose.
- Nose Tip – the highest protrusion of your nose at the bottom of it. Under the nasal tip, you can find your nostrils.
- The base of the nose – the place between the eyebrows where the nose begins.
Risk & Complications Of Nose Reshaping & Nose Surgery
As with any surgery, it is important that you are fully informed of the potential risks associated with nose surgery. While all care is taken to minimize these complications, they may and do occur despite the best medical care.
It is important that you carefully read and understand the potential risks and they will be discussed in further detail when you have your consultation with Dr Turner.
For more information visit the Risks of nose surgery page
You may need a Revision Nose Surgery
In a small but significant number of cases (about 10%) both the patient and surgeon feel the shape of the nose after six months is not quite that which was intended. A second procedure or revision rhinoplasty may be required. It is important to remember that the revision nose surgery cannot be carried out immediately, the nose has to be allowed to settle for about 12 months before further surgery is safe or desirable.
Further Reading about Nose Surgery
Next Steps
Always Do Your Research
- Enquire to find out more about your surgery
- Please read our website to learn more about your intended procedure
Do you need a Medical Referral to see Dr Turner?
- A GP Referral is required to Consult with Dr Turner (under new AHPRA Regulations)
- Please obtain a referral from your GP or Specialist if you want a consultation for an MBS item number surgery.
- Please note that your Medicare Rebates will NOT be claimable without a valid recent Medical Referral
Making The Most Of Your Consultation
- Please arrive slightly early for your in-person consultation
- You are welcome to bring a friend or relative to help consider the information and discuss your options
- Please be aware you may need to undress for a physical exam so wear simple clothes
- Ensure you also take a lot of notes during the consultation and thoroughly examine all the documents provided
Want more information before scheduling your consultation?
- Find out more about pricing and payment plans
- Request more information about the procedure – call or contact us
How to Book Your Consultation
- You can book your initial consultation by paying the $350 cosmetic consultation fee in advance – when you make your appointment
BOOK A PHONE CALL FOR MORE INFO
- To find out more information about surgery you can book a FREE 15-minute phone conversation with our Friendly Patient Care team via Calendly- Book Consultant 1 or Book Consultant 2
Contact us or call on 1300 437 758 to arrange your surgeon consultation in Sydney.
Email us for more information: enquiries@drturner.com.au
