Rhinoplasty or nose surgery
A rhinoplasty is performed to improve the appearance and/or function of the nose. A rhinoplasty can be designed to alter the appearance of the entire nose or just certain parts of it (such as the tip), while still retaining proportion to the other facial structures.

A rhinoplasty can also correct the function of the nose. Nasal obstruction causing breathing abnormalities may be hereditary, or due to injury or previous surgery. Surgery to improve nasal function can be performed at the same time as cosmetic rhinoplasty.

The incisions for this procedure are generally inside the nose, and therefore are not visible. When the structure of the nose is unusually complicated, such as after one or more previous rhinoplasties, nasal fractures, accidents, or skin cancer surgery, correction may necessitate a procedure that leaves a fine scar underneath the nose. When the nostrils are extremely wide or flared, it may, similarly, be necessary to perform a procedure that leaves small scars at the bases of the nostrils in order to achieve correction.

At the completion of the procedure, tapes and a protective splint are applied; they remain in place for about one week. Packing is placed in the nostrils for 1-2 days. In some cases, particularly when surgery is being done only for the tip of the nose, the splint may not be necessary. Absorbable (self-dissolving) stitches are used inside the nose.

Results for the upper nose may be apparent as early as one month after the surgery, while those for the lower and internal nose take longer; in these regions, final results may not be apparent for months to years.