Yes. Most patients will wear a plastic splint over the nose, which is removed within a week after surgery.

How long does it take to see the final result?

You will notice a dramatic improvement in the shape of your nose within the first week of the surgery. At that point there will still be some swelling, but in general, the swelling is not very noticeable. This amount of swelling gradually diminishes within the next several weeks to months. It can take up to a year for all swelling to completely subside and for you to appreciate the final results. Results however are long lasting.

What features of my nose can I change?

Common features of the nose that are treated during rhinoplasty may include removing the bump to achieve a smoother nasal bridge, reshaping the nasal tip, and narrowing the width of the nose. Rhinoplasty surgery is a highly individualized process where you decide which features you want to alter. Dr. Breitbart will carefully evaluate your individual case and discuss with you what can be done in order to achieve your aesthetic goals.

How long is the recovery?

A return to light, normal activity is usually possible within a few days of the surgery. Ice packs or cold compresses are recommended for the first two days to help reduce swelling. There may be some bruising, which usually subsides within two weeks after surgery. After removal of the nasal splint at the end of the first week, most activities can be resumed. However, physical activity that could result in bumping the nose should be avoided for a few weeks.

Can rhinoplasty improve breathing function?

For individuals with nasal obstructions, nose surgery can improve airflow through the nostrils and resolve breathing problems. The surgical approach depends on the type of nasal obstruction. The most common type of obstruction is a deviated septum, and the surgery to repair it is called septoplasty or corrective septal surgery. Some patients undergoing a cosmetic rhinoplasty also have simultaneous procedures to address breathing issues.

What are the age requirements for rhinoplasty candidates?

Plastic surgeons generally prefer to wait until nasal growth is complete to perform rhinoplasty. The nose typically stops growing around the age of 15 in girls and 16 in boys. When evaluating teenage candidates for rhinoplasty, Dr. Breitbart looks for emotional maturity. He wants to ensure the candidate is responsible enough to handle the gravity of elective plastic surgery. The doctor also ensures every candidate, regardless of age, has reasonable expectations and understands the potential risks of surgery.

When can I resume work or school after rhinoplasty?

Most patients feel good enough to resume desk work one week after surgery. Individuals whose jobs are physically demanding or strenuous usually may need at least two additional weeks of rest and recuperation before resuming work.

What are the qualities of an outstanding rhinoplasty surgeon?

An exceptional rhinoplasty surgeon demonstrates the following qualities: Technical competence An eye for artistry, balance and proportion Excellent problem-solving skills Sound medical decision-making skills Patience Good listener Clear communicator High volume of rhinoplasty procedures performed per year Reputable among fellow surgeons and patients Committed to ongoing training and educationGreat rhinoplasty surgeons should also have positive patient testimonials and a portfolio of “before and after” images that showcase their work. Long Island and New York City rhinoplasty patients trust their care to Dr. Breitbart. To see for yourself why he is a leading rhinoplasty surgeon, schedule a one-on-one consultation today.

Are there any restrictions immediately following rhinoplasty?

Yes. You will be asked to avoid anything that could potentially put pressure on or disturb your healing nose immediately following surgery. This includes the following: Strenuous exercise or activities Heavy lifting Blowing your nose Pulling shirts, sweatshirts or jackets over your head Smoking Sleeping flat on your back, sides or stomach (you should sleep with your head elevated) Getting your nasal dressings or bandages wet Rubbing or massaging your nose Resting your glasses on the bridge of your nose (switch to contacts or tape your glasses to your forehead) Exposing your nose to the sun Removing your bandages or dressings before Dr. Breitbart clears you to do soDr. Breitbart will provide you with detailed instructions to follow after surgery. If you have questions about any of the instructions, please reach out to the office.

Rhinoplasty Long Island - Nose Surgery Manhattan

The nose plays a central role in facial balance, and even subtle differences in size or shape can affect overall harmony. Whether due to genetics, injury, or structural concerns, changes in the nose can draw attention away from other features or impact breathing. Rhinoplasty is designed to refine the nose in a way that complements the face while maintaining a natural appearance.

Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, is a board-certified plastic surgeon with more than 30 years of experience performing both cosmetic and reconstructive facial procedures for patients in Long Island and Manhattan, NY. His training at NYU Medical Center and Memorial Sloan-Kettering, along with recognition as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, reflects a strong foundation in surgical precision and aesthetic planning. His approach to rhinoplasty focuses on individualized treatment to achieve balanced, natural-looking results.

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What Is Rhinoplasty?

The nose plays a central role in the overall balance and harmony of the face. When it’s out of proportion—whether from genetics, injury, or previous surgery—it can draw attention away from your other features. Rhinoplasty, also known as nose reshaping surgery, is designed to refine the size, shape, and symmetry of the nose for a more natural and balanced appearance.

Dr. Arnold Breitbart performs rhinoplasty to help patients achieve facial harmony by:

Reshaping the nasal bridge or tip for improved contour
Correcting asymmetry or irregularities caused by injury or genetics
Adjusting nasal size or width to better complement other facial features
Enhancing overall facial balance while maintaining a natural look

Whether the goal is subtle refinement or a more significant change, Dr. Breitbart tailors each rhinoplasty procedure to the individual, ensuring results that look balanced, beautiful, and uniquely you.

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The Benefits of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can improve both facial balance and nasal function.

Common benefits include:

Enhanced facial harmony and proportion
Refinement of nasal shape and contour
Correction of asymmetry or irregularities
Improved breathing when structural issues are addressed
Natural-looking, long-lasting results

Are You a Candidate?

Rhinoplasty can address a wide range of cosmetic and functional concerns with the nose. Dr. Breitbart works closely with each patient to determine if they’re a good candidate for surgery and to develop a personalized treatment plan that enhances both appearance and breathing function.

You may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if you have:

A hump or depression along the bridge of your nose
A wide or uneven nasal bridge
Nostrils that appear too wide or flared
A nasal tip that is enlarged, bulbous, drooping, or hooked
Nasal asymmetry or other irregularities that affect facial balance
Breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum or structural obstruction

In many cases, Dr. Breitbart can perform corrective septal surgery (septoplasty) in combination with rhinoplasty to improve both the cosmetic appearance of the nose and airflow through the nasal passages.

With his extensive training in both cosmetic and reconstructive surgery, Dr. Breitbart ensures that each rhinoplasty achieves natural-looking, harmonious results tailored to your unique features.

Rhinoplasty Procedure

Rhinoplasty surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under either sedation or general anesthesia. Depending on your individual goals and anatomy, Dr. Arnold Breitbart carefully tailors the surgical plan to achieve a natural and balanced result.

In most cases, all incisions are made inside the nose, leaving no visible scars. In some situations, an open rhinoplasty technique is used, which involves a small incision along the underside of the columella (the tissue between the nostrils). This incision typically heals beautifully, leaving an almost imperceptible scar.

During the procedure, Dr. Breitbart may:

Reduce or smooth a nasal hump along the bridge
Narrow or refine the nasal bridge for improved symmetry
Reshape and reposition the nasal tip for a more balanced appearance

Each surgery is customized to complement the patient’s facial proportions while maintaining a natural look, never overdone or artificial.

With more than two decades of experience as a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Breitbart has earned recognition as a Castle Connolly Top Doctor, a New York Times “Super Doctor”, and one of the region’s leading plastic surgeons. His artistic precision and commitment to personalized care help patients achieve results that enhance both confidence and facial harmony.

Rhinoplasty Recovery Time

After rhinoplasty surgery, a light plastic splint is typically placed on the bridge of the nose to support and protect its new shape. This splint is usually removed within about a week.

While patients often notice an immediate improvement in the nose’s appearance, some swelling and bruising are normal during the early recovery phase.

What to expect after surgery:

A plastic splint will stay in place for about 7 days.
Mild swelling and bruising may appear around the nose and eyes.
Bruising usually fades within 1–2 weeks.
Avoid strenuous activity for 2–4 weeks to allow proper healing.
Most swelling improves within a few months, but final nasal contour may take several months to fully refine.

Under the care of Dr. Breitbart, patients receive detailed post-operative guidance and follow-up to ensure a smooth recovery and beautifully natural results.

Rhinoplasty FAQs

Yes. The goal in all plastic surgery, particularly rhinoplasty, is to have a natural-looking result. The objective is to improve the appearance of your nose, while keeping it natural looking and proportioned to your face.

Why Choose Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart for Rhinoplasty?

Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, brings more than 30 years of experience in cosmetic and reconstructive plastic surgery, with extensive expertise in rhinoplasty procedures. He is board certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery and completed advanced training at NYU Medical Center and Memorial Sloan-Kettering. His in-office surgical facility is accredited by the American Association for Accreditation of Ambulatory Surgery Facilities, providing a controlled and safety-focused environment for surgical care. Dr. Breitbart has been recognized by Castle Connolly as a top plastic surgeon in the New York metropolitan area and has been featured in national publications and media outlets. His approach emphasizes individualized treatment planning, precise surgical technique, and results that maintain natural facial balance and proportion.

Rhinoplasty Consultation Long Island, NY

Rhinoplasty can improve both the appearance and function of the nose by creating better balance with surrounding facial features. A detailed evaluation helps determine the most appropriate approach based on anatomy, structural concerns, and aesthetic goals. Patients can explore treatment options designed to achieve natural-looking results with a focus on long-term harmony. To learn more about rhinoplasty with Dr. Arnold S. Breitbart, MD, in Long Island and Manhattan, NY, schedule a consultation, call (516) 365-3511 today.