PROCEDURES / FACE / RHINOPLASTY
RHINOPLASTY
Rhinoplasty is one of the most intricate and transformative procedures in plastic surgery. It refines the shape and structure of the nose to improve balance, proportion, and overall facial harmony. While results are beautifully long-lasting, final refinement takes a full year or more as swelling gradually resolves and delicate structures settle into place.
DR. SCHULTZ'S APPROACH
Dr. Kelly Schultz approaches rhinoplasty as both a precise technical operation and a work of art. She understands that the nose is the centerpiece of the face and that its shape and balance influence every other feature.
Dr. Schultz performs rhinoplasty using an open structural approach, which provides full visualization and control of the nasal framework. Through a small, nearly invisible incision along the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils), she gains access to refine cartilage, bone, and soft tissue with meticulous precision. This method allows her to build and support the nasal architecture rather than simply reduce it, ensuring both aesthetic beauty and long-term stability.
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WHO IS A GOOD CANDIDATE
Rhinoplasty may be appropriate for individuals who:
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Feel that their nose is out of balance with other facial features
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Wish to refine the nasal bridge, tip, or overall shape
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Have experienced trauma or functional issues, such as breathing difficulty
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Seek natural improvement rather than an operated appearance
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Are in good health and prepared for a gradual, year-long healing process
SURGICAL TECHNIQUE
The open approach allows Dr. Schultz to visualize and directly sculpt the internal nasal structures with complete accuracy. She carefully reshapes bone and cartilage, adds structural grafts where needed, and redefines the nasal tip and bridge while preserving natural airflow.
By rebuilding support rather than removing excessive tissue, Dr. Schultz prevents collapse and maintains the nose’s elegant shape for years to come. The incision heals beautifully, becoming virtually invisible within weeks.
This open structural technique allows for:
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Greater precision in shaping the nasal tip and bridge
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Improved symmetry and control over contour
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Long-lasting results supported by stable internal architecture
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Refinement of both aesthetics and function, ensuring the nose looks and breathes naturally
WHAT TO EXPECT
Rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia and takes about three hours. A small splint is placed on the nose for support during the first week, and light bruising or swelling may appear around the eyes.
Most patients return to normal daily activity within 7–10 days, though residual swelling, particularly at the tip, persists for up to a full year. The gradual refinement is part of the natural healing process and ensures beautifully subtle evolution over time.
RECOVERY AND HEALING
Dr. Schultz provides detailed instructions for care, emphasizing patience and realistic expectations as the results mature beautifully over the course of the first year.
DAYS 0-7
Mild swelling and congestion are expected. Splints are removed at one week.
WEEKS 2-4
Most bruising resolves, and the nose appears smoother and more natural.
MONTHS 3-6
Swelling continues to improve, especially along the bridge.
MONTHS 9-12+
Final definition emerges as residual tip swelling dissipates, revealing refined, lasting contours.
BEGIN YOUR JOURNEY
Rhinoplasty refines the central feature of the face with elegance, precision, and artistry.
Dr. Schultz combines advanced structural technique with an aesthetic eye to create results that are natural, balanced, and enduring. During consultation, she carefully evaluates each patient’s anatomy, function, and goals to design a customized surgical plan.