Can rhinoplasty look natural?

Yes. Each nose is planned individually around your features and proportions, so the goal is a natural, harmonious result rather than a generic or "done" appearance.

What is the difference between cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty?

Cosmetic rhinoplasty refines appearance, while functional concerns relate to breathing. Where relevant, both can be considered together so the plan supports how the nose looks and works.

What is recovery like after rhinoplasty?

Initial swelling eases over a couple of weeks, while subtle refinement of the final shape continues over months, depending on the patient. You receive clear aftercare and attentive follow-up.

How is rhinoplasty planned around facial balance?

The nose is planned in relation to the rest of the face, including the chin and profile. Because the nose and chin together define the profile, they are sometimes planned together for balance.

Nasal Refinement & Balance

Rhinoplasty in Austin

Rhinoplasty refines the shape of the nose — the bridge, tip, nostrils, and profile — to bring it into balance with the rest of the face. Dr. Kaimana Chow plans each nose individually for a natural-looking result that suits your features rather than a generic ideal. For patients across the Austin area, the goal is refinement that looks like it was always yours.

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Overview

Natural-looking nasal refinement

Because the nose sits at the center of the face, even subtle refinement can bring the whole face into balance. Rhinoplasty is planned around your features and proportions, so the result looks natural and harmonious — not done.

Bridge & Profile

The bridge and profile line can be refined for a smoother, balanced shape.

Tip Refinement

The nasal tip may be refined for better definition and proportion.

Nostril Balance

Nostril width and symmetry can be addressed where appropriate.

Facial Balance

Refinement is planned so the nose relates naturally to the rest of the face.

At a Glance

Procedure Snapshot

This procedure centers on refinement of nasal shape and profile, planned around your individual anatomy and goals.

What is Rhinoplasty?

Nose surgery, also known as rhinoplasty, is a nose-reshaping procedure performed to improve the shape and function of the nose. Each nose is completely unique and requires a personalized approach. While rhinoplasties rank among the most commonly performed plastic surgeries, they are also widely regarded as one of the most challenging. Dr. Chow and the Plastic Surgery of Austin team specializes in craniofacial reconstruction and facial aesthetic procedures. Similar to other facial surgeries, rhinoplasties are customized to meet each patient's unique needs and anatomy, and various techniques can be employed to modify these tissues to attain the desired results.

What are the different options for rhinoplasty?

Closed rhinoplasty

This procedure can be performed under twilight anesthesia or general anesthesia, and is an excellent option for those concerned about scarring and postoperative swelling. All the incisions are made within the nose, so there are no visible scars afterwards.

Septo-rhinoplasty

Septoplasty to improve a deviated septum is often combined with rhinoplasty to fix aesthetic issues. Here, you get the best of both worlds. Septo-rhinoplasty helps to refine the architecture of the nose on the both the inside and the outside.

Open rhinoplasty

This approach gives the surgeon the most flexibility and room to make changes. It is performed under general anesthesia or twilight sedation. The incision is well hidden beneath the nose.

Non-surgical rhinoplasty

For those who do not wish to undergo a surgical procedure with its longer downtimes and higher risks, a non-surgical rhinoplasty may be the best choice. It can be performed with dermal fillers and injectables to reshape a nasal hump, improve the tip or hide other flaws. Just bear in mind that results are short term and not as sustainable as with a surgical rhinoplasty.

Achieve your nasal aesthetic goals
Improvement in nasal function and breathing
Long-lasting results
A natural appearance to the nose
Greater harmony and balance among the features
Correct symmetry

What are the benefits of a rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty with Dr. Chow

Rhinoplasty procedures typically last between 3-6 hours, depending on the extent of the necessary surgery, and they are conducted under general anesthesia. Dr. Chow primarily employs an open approach, which involves a small incision at the base of the nose, with most incisions concealed inside the nose. This approach grants improved access to the internal nasal structure, allowing for precise work.

Depending on each patient's unique requirements, Dr. Chow modifies the bone and cartilage framework of the nose to achieve the desired nasal contour. This may include cartilage trimming, folding, or suturing to reshape the nose or improve airway passages. In some cases, nasal bones may need to be shaved down or repositioned. If a patient requires nasal structure augmentation, a cartilage graft may be necessary. Following the procedure, Dr. Chow re-drapes the skin and sutures the small incision located on the columella, the strip of skin between the nostrils. Once fully healed, this incision is completely concealed beneath the nose.

What can you expect from rhinoplasty?

Nose surgery can dramatically improve your appearance by removing imperfections and adjusting the size or shape of your nose for a more desirable look. It can take up to a year for any lingering swelling to resolve and final results to become fully visible. However, once they do, you’ll be able to enjoy your results for many years to come.

What Rhinoplasty Can Refine

Rhinoplasty can refine the bridge, tip, nostrils, and overall profile of the nose. Because each nose and face is different, the plan is individualized — the goal is balance and natural proportion rather than a one-size-fits-all shape.

Cosmetic and Functional Considerations

For some patients, the nose involves both appearance and breathing. Where relevant, functional concerns can be discussed alongside cosmetic refinement during your consultation, so the plan supports both how the nose looks and how it works.

Nose, Chin, and Profile Balance

The nose and chin together define the profile. When the chin has limited projection, the nose can appear more prominent, so the two are sometimes planned together. You can explore chin augmentation where profile balance is part of your goals.

Considerations