From beginning to end what your rhinoplasty experience will look like.
Many patients think about getting their nose done for years. So when the decision is made to set up an appointment you probably have some questions. What will happen at my appointment? Will it hurt? How long until I can return to work? How long until it looks "final"?
Below we will answer these questions and take you through a typical Rhinoplasty in Los Angeles step by step. Starting with how you know it's right for you and ending with how your life will look after one year.
If you're trying to figure out who to choose from how to choose among rhinoplasty surgeons in Los Angeles check out this article. If you're ready to learn about the process, continue reading.
About Dr. Ardesh
Dr. Ardesh of Beauty Mark MD is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon known for delivering thousands of refined, natural outcomes. With an academic background that includes teaching in head and neck surgery, ophthalmology, and dermatology at Loma Linda University, he later transitioned into private practice to focus on patient-centred care. His philosophy emphasises subtle enhancement rather than obvious alteration, earning him recognition as a leading plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills and Newport Beach.
Stage 1: Is rhinoplasty right for you?
There are many reasons people want to have their nose changed. Often there is more than one reason. Here are a few examples.
- Appearance: a dorsal hump, a wide or bulbous tip, a drooping tip, a crooked nose or a nose that feels too large for the face.
- Breathing: chronic congestion on one side, snoring or difficulty breathing during exercise, often from a deviated septum.
- Injury: a nose broken in sports, a fall or an assault that healed crooked or blocked.
- A previous surgery: a result that looks over-done, pinched or uneven, or that made breathing worse.
You should consider getting your nose done if your nose is fully developed. You are healthy and can refrain from smoking prior to and after surgery. Last but not least you want to get your nose done for you.
Something to also consider is that your nose does not stand alone. If you have a weak chin it may appear as if your nose is larger than it actually is. Your surgeon will evaluate your entire face to determine what will give you the best outcome. You may be surprised to find out you also want a chin job or your nose doesn't need to be changed as much as you thought.
Stage 2: The consultation
This is where your rhinoplasty begins. When you meet with Dr. Ardesh at his Beverly Hills or Newport Beach office your consultation will include the following.
- Discuss your concerns: You will tell him what you don't like about your nose and what you do like.
- Inside and outside your nose: Dr. Ardesh will evaluate the insides of your nose to make sure your breathing is optimal. As well as your skin thickness and how symmetrical your nose is.
- Evaluate your face: Dr. Ardesh will take into consideration the size of your nose in proportion to the rest of your face. This includes your forehead, lips and chin.
- Pictures: Your pictures will be taken from several angles to better understand what needs to be done to your nose.
- Plan of action: Dr. Ardesh will let you know if he recommends open or closed rhinoplasty. If you will be having work done to your breathing as well. And what results are possible with your nose.
We offer virtual consultations if you are unable to make it to Southern California or want to speak with us first.
Here are some questions you should ask any rhinoplasty doctor in LA:
- What will and will not change on my nose?
- Do I need work done to my breathing?
- Will you be performing open or closed rhinoplasty on my nose?
- Show me before and after pictures of patients that have a similar nose to mine.
- Who will I talk to if I have a question post surgery?
- What if I'm not happy with my result?
You should feel comfortable with your surgeon after a consultation. If you don't then find another doctor.
Stage 3: Preparing for surgery and surgery day
Before surgery.
There will be a list of things your doctor's office will give you. Make sure to stop smoking/vaping and discontinue any medications or supplements that can cause you to bleed. (With permission from your doctor) Schedule any pre op labs and make sure you have enough time off from work.
Prepare your house for your recovery. Have plenty of pillows to prop your head up on. Ice packs and saline if your doctor approves. Soft foods, lip balm and shirts that button up.
Make sure you have someone to drive you home and stay the first night.
On the day of surgery.
Your surgery will be performed as an outpatient procedure meaning you will be sent home that same day. Depending on your case it can take anywhere from 2-4 hours. When you wake up you will have a small cast on your nose and possibly packing inside of your nose.
Most people state that they feel congested and as if they have a bad head cold. Not so much pain. You will also have to breath through your mouth for the first few days.
Stage 4: Healing week by week
Everyone will heal at their own rate. If you have thick skin your nose may take a little longer to heal. Below are general timelines of what to expect.
- Days 1-3 You will be swollen and bruised. Swelling will spread to your under eye area. Keep your head propped up and ice your face.
- Days 4-7 Bruising will begin to fade and turn yellow. You will still be congested. Try not to blow your nose. Sneeze with your mouth open.
- Week 1-2 You will have your cast removed and any stitches taken out. This is the first time you will see your new nose. It will appear swollen and maybe even upturned or wide. Don't worry it will get better! Most people are able to return to work and go out socially. Wear a little makeup and you'll be good to go.
- Weeks 3-6 You will be looking like yourself in public. You can begin light exercise. Do not participate in any sports or activities that may hit your nose.
- Month 2-6 Your bridge will start to look final. The tip of your nose is the last part to heal and can remain full for some time.
- Month 6-12 Your nose will continue to look more natural. If you have thicker skin or had revision surgery you may take a little longer to see your final result.
Things to remember when recovering from Rhinoplasty
- Sleep on your back and prop your head up for the first couple weeks.
- Try to not wear glasses on your nose until told otherwise by your surgeon.
- Avoid direct sunlight on your nose. Sun can cause more swelling and darkening of the area.
- Attend all of your follow up appointments. Even if you feel great.
- Be patient. Don't judge your nose in 3 weeks.
Stage 5: Living with your result, and how Dr. Ardesh supports you
A successful rhinoplasty is one you stop thinking about. Friends tell you that you look great without being able to say why, and you breathe more easily every day.
Dr. Farhad Ardesh is board certified in Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and in Head and Neck Surgery, so he plans every rhinoplasty around both appearance and airway. His philosophy is to enhance your natural features while preserving your identity, which means a nose that looks like it was always yours.
What that looks like in practice:
- One plan for form and function. Breathing problems such as a deviated septum or septal perforation are corrected in the same operation.
- Experience with complex noses. He treats noses after injury and after previous surgery, and has been featured by Reuters for commentary on nasal injuries in soccer.
- Close aftercare. Patients often mention a responsive team in both offices that checks in and answers questions throughout recovery.
- Honest guidance. Recommendations focus on what will meaningfully improve your face, not on adding procedures.
"It's been a year since surgery and I love my new nose... Suits me so well." — Josh N., rhinoplasty after a deviated septum from injury (Google review)
You can browse rhinoplasty results in the before-and-after gallery and patient stories in case studies.
Rhinoplasty Los Angeles: more questions patients ask
1. Is rhinoplasty painful?
Most patients describe pressure and congestion rather than sharp pain. Discomfort is usually manageable with prescribed or over-the-counter medication and eases within the first week.
2. Will I have visible scars?
With a closed approach, all incisions are inside the nose. With an open approach, there is a tiny incision across the columella that typically heals to be very hard to see.
3. How much time off work do I need?
Many people return to desk work in about one to two weeks, once the splint is off and bruising has faded. Physical jobs may need longer.
4. When can I wear glasses again?
Your surgeon will advise you. Glasses usually need to be kept off the bridge, or supported with tape, for several weeks to avoid pressure on healing bones.
5. Can I fly after rhinoplasty?
Short flights are often fine after the first week, but check with your surgeon first, especially if you are traveling to Los Angeles from out of town for surgery.
6. What is the best age for rhinoplasty?
Once the nose has finished growing, usually in the mid to late teens. There is no upper age limit for healthy patients.
Start your rhinoplasty journey in Los Angeles
Knowing what to expect at every stage makes rhinoplasty far less intimidating. The first step is a conversation with a surgeon who will examine your nose, listen to your goals and give you an honest plan. If you are considering rhinoplasty surgeons in Los Angeles or Orange County, book a consultation with Dr. Ardesh.
Schedule a consultation or call (424) 242-8608.
