What Is Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Rhinoplasty, or a "nose job" colloquially, is a surgery performed to enhance facial symmetry and the proportions of your nose to face. It is also done to correct impaired breathing caused by structural defects in the nose.

Function

The nose has critical functional importance as well as a powerful role in facial appearance. The nose and throat are central to correct breathing and speaking. Proper control of the airflow through the nose is important and can create a dramatic impact upon:

  • Speaking
  • Reading
  • Singing
  • Sleeping
  • Snoring
  • Stuffy or runny nose
  • General health

If any of these issues are impacting your quality of life, they can be resolved through a carefully performed nasal surgery. Straightening the nose and septum will not only improve the outward appearance, but also improve your ability to breathe freely and correctly.

Rhinoplasty or septoplasty (surgical correction for a deviated septum) will improve facial balance, as well as correct any breathing dysfunction.

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What Is the Difference Between Open and Closed Rhinoplasty?

The difference between open and closed is that, with a closed rhinoplasty, all surgery is done within the nostrils to prevent external scars. With an open rhinoplasty, an incision is made at the base of the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) and the skin is lifted off the cartilage to make the change to the shape of the nose. During your consultation with Dr. Chang, you will go over the best option for your situation.

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About Dr. Chang: Outstanding Credentials

Dr. Chang is a medical professional with credentials that are above and beyond the ordinary. Considered by his patients to offer the best rhinoplasty in Washington, DC. He attended Yale University as well as Harvard Medical School, is a board-certified plastic surgeon, and is educated in advanced craniofacial surgery. His knowledge of facial structure, balance, and function has made him a leader in the field of nose surgery—both for function and as an aesthetic enhancement. As a young surgeon, he has already garnered a positive reputation for his skills, knowledge, and beautiful surgical outcomes.

Testimonials What Our Patients Say

5 out of 5 stars

It really made me a happier person.

"I have never felt so confident. Dr. Chang completely changed how I saw myself in the mirror. I was terribly self-conscious of my nose from my youth and finally decided to go th...

"I have never felt so confident. Dr. Chang completely changed how I saw myself in the mirror. I was terribly self-conscious of my nose from my youth and finally decided to go through with the surgery. Not only was it inexpensive compared to the other three doctors I contacted, but the before-and-after pictures of patients were also much better looking than the others! The whole process of surgery and recovery was quick and pretty much painless. I would definitely recommend him to anyone wanting cosmetic surgery. It really made me a happier person."

Catherine M.
5 out of 5 stars

I cannot say enough about my surgery with Dr. Chang!

"I cannot say enough about my surgery with Dr. Chang! I had full facial rejuvenation, including a facelift, brow lift, and upper eyelids done 4 months ago. I also had a chemical...

"I cannot say enough about my surgery with Dr. Chang! I had full facial rejuvenation, including a facelift, brow lift, and upper eyelids done 4 months ago. I also had a chemical peel on my lower eyelids and mouth. There was barely any pain, and I was back to work the next week! I am so thrilled, and my friends are so impressed. I cannot say enough about my experience! He is both caring and an amazing surgeon! Thank you so much!"

Cathy W.
5 out of 5 stars

He is a true pro, and I recommend 100% without reservation!

"Dr. Chang did my rhinoplasty about 8 weeks ago, and he was brilliant. I was an incredibly nervous patient who contemplated a rhinoplasty for 10 years and decided to take the le...

"Dr. Chang did my rhinoplasty about 8 weeks ago, and he was brilliant. I was an incredibly nervous patient who contemplated a rhinoplasty for 10 years and decided to take the leap after much thought and many consultations. I was looking for the following criteria: 1) To still look like myself; 2) Find a skilled surgeon with the vision to reshape my nose appropriately to fit my face; and 3) Find a surgeon who heard me. Dr. Chang impressed me out of the gate. He listened to all of my concerns and spent so much time with me during the consultation process. It is clear that he takes great pride in making his patients happy and seeing great outcomes! The surgery felt super quick and was a good experience overall. The nurses at the outpatient center were top-notch and made me feel completely comfortable. Dr. Chang spent time talking with my husband following the surgery, checked in with me, and made himself available to answer any questions following the surgery. The recovery was also relatively painless. I had essentially no pain, and while bruising peaked within 24 hours, it improved each day drastically. I was back to work (from home and off video) within 4 days and was able to cover bruises easily with makeup 9 days after the surgery. Bruising was totally gone within 2 weeks. Like other patients, I had a lot of anxiety about what people would think - too vain, frivolous expense, etc. I’m happy to say that the results are beautiful, completely natural, and not a single person has said anything to me about it. I was very private about having the surgery because I only did it for myself, so a natural result was my ultimate goal. The entire experience and outcome were everything I hoped for, and I cannot thank Dr. Chang enough! He is a true pro, and I recommend 100% without reservation!"

Ashley R.
5 out of 5 stars

Superb work, Dr. Chang!

"I was referred to Dr. Chang by my Mohs surgeon, who had to perform a radical excision of tissue from my nose due to an aggressive squamous cell carcinoma invasion. It left me w...

"I was referred to Dr. Chang by my Mohs surgeon, who had to perform a radical excision of tissue from my nose due to an aggressive squamous cell carcinoma invasion. It left me with a significant wound extending from the dorsum to the tip and partial sidewalls of the nose that had to be closed as soon as possible. Besides the extensive loss of tissue, my case was made more complicated by my having a CLL-reduced immune system, myelodysplastic syndrome--severe anemia, and low platelet count--thrombocytopenia. I was fortunate to have Dr. Chang take on my challenging case. At my pre op, Dr. Chang explained carefully what he planned to do. He described the methodology to me and answered all my questions (and I ask a lot of questions!). åI have had two surgeries to date, one to perform the paramedian flap procedure, and the second to sever the flap and accomplish some additional sculpting. The results to date are amazing; it is difficult to tell that my forehead had been cut open to obtain the necessary tissue to cover the extensive nose wound. My nose will require additional surgeries to achieve satisfactory form, fit, and function, partly due to the fact that Dr. Chang had to leave some excess tissue in the event that I require any radiation oncology procedures, which shrink tissue. Fortunately, I will not require the radiation treatment due to the outstanding work of the Mohs' surgeon to remove all the invasive cancer cells and leave clean margins. Dr. Chang verified this result by excising several tissue samples from the lateral margins for pathological analysis during my first surgery. I really appreciated this double check, which put my mind at ease that there were no remaining cancer cells in the operative area. åI am very confident that Dr. Chang will leave me with a reconstructed nose that will be functionally sound, aesthetically pleasing, and difficult to discern from my original nose--very impressive indeed! I expect people will not even know that I had undergone such a major nose reconstruction due to the work of Dr. Chang. åMy overall evaluation of Dr. Chang is that he is an outstanding surgeon with a great future. He was educated in some of the premier medical institutions in the country; he is well organized, fully competent, thorough, pays attention to detail, and has an extremely pleasant manner that promotes confidence in his patients. I am also impressed that Dr. Chang finds the time to perform charitable work by correcting facial/cranial deformities of children in poor and underdeveloped countries. My family, friends, former colleagues, and my physicians (I see a lot of doctors due to my numerous medical problems) are all following my progress and are quite impressed with what Dr. Chang has accomplished. Superb work, Dr. Chang! åA word too about the staff and facility. All of the personnel in this office are outstanding—courteous and professional, from the receptionists who schedule appointments and welcome you upon arrival, to the outstanding nurses who assist Dr. Chang. I am even impressed with the dress code required of the staff. The facility is bright, roomy, and kept to very high cleanliness standards--so important to a medical office. åIn summary, I would recommend anyone who requires major reconstructive surgery and cosmetic surgery to go to this office."

George K.
5 out of 5 stars

I would 100% recommend Dr. Chang

"I am so grateful that I chose Dr. Chang to perform my rhinoplasty in September. Dr. Chang uses a perfect balance of professionalism, talent, compassion, and humor to help patie...

"I am so grateful that I chose Dr. Chang to perform my rhinoplasty in September. Dr. Chang uses a perfect balance of professionalism, talent, compassion, and humor to help patients feel comfortable and confident in the weeks leading up to surgery. Most impressively, Dr. Chang remained extremely available and responsive to all of my questions in the days and weeks following my surgery. It is rare to find such a committed physician, and he never made me feel like my questions were insignificant.

Most importantly, I'm beyond happy with my end results. I am 1 month post-surgery, and I can see a significant change in the look of my nose, and it's getting better each day. It has been easy to schedule follow-up visits with the doctor, and his nursing team has also been a great support. I would 100% recommend Dr. Chang to friends, family, and anyone looking for an excellent plastic surgeon. I plan to see Dr. Chang for any other cosmetic procedures I pursue in the future."

Katie C.
5 out of 5 stars

Our recent experience with Dr. Chang was outstanding.

"Our recent experience with Dr. Chang was outstanding. He performed an otoplasty on our 6-year-old son and exceeded our expectations professionally and personally. Upon meeting ...

"Our recent experience with Dr. Chang was outstanding. He performed an otoplasty on our 6-year-old son and exceeded our expectations professionally and personally. Upon meeting Dr. Chang, we immediately felt at ease about making what we felt like was a very difficult decision. He was attentive, informative, and never made us feel rushed during our consultation, with a detailed explanation of the procedure and levels of healing. At the hospital, Dr. Chang made all of us feel calm and comfortable before surgery. We were updated during the 2-hour procedure. Immediately following the surgery, Dr. Chang summarized the surgical procedure and showed us pictures of the results (which would be bandaged when we saw our son in recovery). Recovery was a bit difficult for my son, and although Dr. Chang had already left the hospital, he came back just to check on him and assess the situation. Dr. Chang was accessible during the entire recovery time. The first night home, we spoke on the phone several times (even in the middle of the night). We had never encountered a doctor with such an attentive bedside manner. The entire experience provided excellent surgical results for my son, boosting his confidence. Dr. Chang was always supportive and gave us immediate feedback. We are truly grateful for his expertise and demeanor."

Lauren
5 out of 5 stars

His office staff was also very patient and friendly.

"I was very fortunate to have Dr. Chang treat me at Suburban Hospital's ER. I arrived at the ER with a severe head laceration in the front forehead area. Immediately upon meetin...

"I was very fortunate to have Dr. Chang treat me at Suburban Hospital's ER. I arrived at the ER with a severe head laceration in the front forehead area. Immediately upon meeting Dr. Chang, my anxiety level dropped dramatically. He calmly explained the extent of my injury and what he was going to do to close the wound. His skill and caring manner became apparent very quickly. After the procedure, I visited his office within a couple of days due to my concern that the wound was ok and not infected. He again demonstrated a great deal of concern and professionalism, which quickly reassured me that everything was fine. Within a week, I again visited his office to have my sutures removed and again was very impressed with how caring and skillful he was. His office staff was also very patient and friendly. This was a major laceration, and I was very surprised and delighted with how well it has healed with very little scarring. I would greatly recommend Dr. Chang, and I am sure his skills and care as a plastic surgeon are second to none."

Charlie W.
5 out of 5 stars

10 stars is not enough for Dr. Chang

"10 stars is not enough for Dr. Chang—he's off the charts. Dr. Chang fixed my broken nose and stitched my face up so well that no one can even see the scar, only a few months la...

"10 stars is not enough for Dr. Chang—he's off the charts. Dr. Chang fixed my broken nose and stitched my face up so well that no one can even see the scar, only a few months later. Dr. Chang has a calming and confident demeanor, so despite being in the ER with a bleeding head wound, I was able to relax knowing I was in the hands of an expert surgeon. He is truly a master at his job, and I recommend him to everyone I know."

Jennifer V.
5 out of 5 stars

You will be extremely satisfied with his work!!

"I went to Dr. Chang to fix my earlobe after an earring was ripped out. He was not only accommodating to my schedule but also highly skilled and diligent at what he does. It's b...

"I went to Dr. Chang to fix my earlobe after an earring was ripped out. He was not only accommodating to my schedule but also highly skilled and diligent at what he does. It's been 3 months since I've had it repaired, and my ear looks amazing. When I tell people what happened, they can't even tell that I had any trauma to my ear. I work at a hospital, and the doctors I work with all say he did a great job. I highly recommend going to Dr. Chang. You will be extremely satisfied with his work!!"

Stephanie B.
5 out of 5 stars

From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Dr. Chang

"I received an injury to my face that left me heartbroken and desperate to find the best plastic surgeon to repair it with minimal long-term damage and scarring. I am so glad I ...

"I received an injury to my face that left me heartbroken and desperate to find the best plastic surgeon to repair it with minimal long-term damage and scarring. I am so glad I found Dr. Chang. Because of the time-sensitivity to stitch up the wound, Dr. Chang and his staff stayed later than normal business hours and kept me calm, reassured, and positive the whole time (a level of service that remained consistent with all my following appointments). The wound required an extremely delicate attention to detail and expertise in facial nerves, and Dr. Chang exceeded my expectations on how well it could be repaired. Even all my family and friends in the medical field were amazed and impressed with the precision of his work! Dr. Chang is not only extremely skilled, but he is friendly, supportive, and very kind—all traits you want in a doctor. I highly recommend Dr. Chang and plan to continue going to him for any future needs. From the bottom of my heart, thank you, Dr. Chang, for working so hard to heal my injury and restore my confidence."

Nicole B.
5 out of 5 stars

My lips look fantastic!

"Dr. Chang was super professional and did an amazing job. My lips look fantastic!"

Christin
5 out of 5 stars

Will definitely recommend to my friends and come back.

"I am very satisfied with my whole experience with Dr. Chang. I went in to get Botox, he was patient and explained in detail what would be done and how long it would take to tak...

"I am very satisfied with my whole experience with Dr. Chang. I went in to get Botox, he was patient and explained in detail what would be done and how long it would take to take full effect. This wasn't my first experience with Botox, but it was my first time in Dr. Chang's office, and I am thoroughly satisfied. I can see a great difference from past experiences. I also inquired about a possible facelift procedure, and he was very detailed while explaining. Will definitely recommend to my friends and come back."

Hilma S.
5 out of 5 stars

I have had a great experience with Dr. Chang so far.

"I have had a great experience with Dr. Chang so far. I went to a few different Drs for consults before ultimately choosing Dr. Chang to perform surgery on my forehead. My scar ...

"I have had a great experience with Dr. Chang so far. I went to a few different Drs for consults before ultimately choosing Dr. Chang to perform surgery on my forehead. My scar is very small, and it's healing well. He's very nice, doesn't rush the appointments, and explains everything in a way that is easy to understand. I've already recommended him to several people who also love going to him as well."

Julie U.
5 out of 5 stars

There is no shortage of the "WOW factor.

"When you want to shoot for the stars, you go elsewhere. When you want to shoot for the moon, you go to someone with ELITE credentials, and that's Dr. Chang. He's not just a Pla...

"When you want to shoot for the stars, you go elsewhere. When you want to shoot for the moon, you go to someone with ELITE credentials, and that's Dr. Chang. He's not just a Plastic Surgeon but someone you can connect with on a human level. Check out some of the extraordinary work he performed on missions to save children's lives. Impressive! With around thirty-two different face-lifting techniques currently in common practice, Dr. Chang analyzes the scientific basis of each before altering his technique. Ultimately, the artistry comes from the hands of the Plastic Surgeon. Dr. Chang has no wand but hands that produce magical results. The aesthetics of facial beauty must be understood and followed, as this becomes paramount in the creation of a naturally more attractive face. This is precisely why Dr. Chang is the very best choice for amazing results. There is no shortage of the "WOW factor." I am grateful for such a wonderful experience. The office staff is well educated and serves every patient with an excellent attitude. Now my friend is booked for a facelift. Is yours? CHOOSE DR.CHANG!!!!"

Jennifer
5 out of 5 stars

I thank Dr. Chang for his excellent work.

"I appreciated Dr. Chang's care and expertise in solving a rather difficult situation concerning skin grafting on a large section of my nose. This was necessary to repair an are...

"I appreciated Dr. Chang's care and expertise in solving a rather difficult situation concerning skin grafting on a large section of my nose. This was necessary to repair an area of multiple surgeries performed by another surgeon in the excision of skin cancers. I thank Dr. Chang for his excellent work."

Lark L.
5 out of 5 stars

I would not hesitate to recommend him.

"I was referred to Dr. Chang by my dermatologist to do a surgery on my scalp. I was very impressed with him and his staff. They were personable and professional. I would not hes...

"I was referred to Dr. Chang by my dermatologist to do a surgery on my scalp. I was very impressed with him and his staff. They were personable and professional. I would not hesitate to recommend him."

Patrick S.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang was outstanding, kind, and gentle as he repaired my face.

"I met Dr. Chris Chang in the ER on May 4, 2015. I had suffered a concussion, a broken nose, a large gash across the forehead, and a split upper lip! Dr. Chang was outstanding, ...

"I met Dr. Chris Chang in the ER on May 4, 2015. I had suffered a concussion, a broken nose, a large gash across the forehead, and a split upper lip! Dr. Chang was outstanding, kind, and gentle as he repaired my face. I think the best statement I can make about his work is that 6 weeks later, people were telling me that I looked like nothing had happened at all. That is a great testament to his skill. During follow-up visits, I found him to be most informative, answering every question and even fitting me in for an unscheduled visit. His office staff was at all times helpful, friendly, pleasant, and courteous."

Kathryn W.
5 out of 5 stars

I could not have been more pleased.

"Dr. Chang was able to see me the day I called, and he spent time explaining my situation in great detail. He was careful to show me what to use on my scraped-up face, gave me a...

"Dr. Chang was able to see me the day I called, and he spent time explaining my situation in great detail. He was careful to show me what to use on my scraped-up face, gave me a list of things to get at the drug store, and was very reassuring and kind. I could not have been more pleased. His office was attractive and calming, and his staff was very helpful and efficient. All in all, it was a very pleasant introduction to the practice. I loved seeing the 3-D imaging and having it explained in great detail. It was fascinating, a very nice experience."

Mary C.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang is an expert in his field

"I initially met Dr. Chang in the ER after my accident, and from there set up appointments in his office for further treatment. I highly recommend Dr. Chang and his staff to ind...

"I initially met Dr. Chang in the ER after my accident, and from there set up appointments in his office for further treatment. I highly recommend Dr. Chang and his staff to individuals in need of a professional and experienced plastic surgeon in the DMV area. I had a great experience from the moment I entered his office - being greeted by his receptionist and assistant, both of whom were very professional in all aspects of their job. I was very insecure and worried about my recent facial scar, but Dr. Chang and his assistant were very reassuring about all of my concerns. The entire staff was very personable, which is something very important to a patient being treated with facial wounds. Dr. Chang had more than gladly addressed all of my concerns and questions about the entire process - I never felt pressured or rushed during my appointments - something that most patients have a conflict with in seeing their physicians. Aside from that, I have received excellent medical care and, within 4 months, have seen phenomenal results in my recovery. Dr. Chang is an expert in his field, and I highly recommend him to all inquiring individuals. Thank you."

Bona G.
5 out of 5 stars

Thank you, Dr. Chang, for taking such wonderful care of me!

"I had had a pretty significant orbital break and blowout on Sunday, August 30, 2015. Dr. Chang was absolutely wonderful from the initial diagnosis and discussion, pre-op, post-...

"I had had a pretty significant orbital break and blowout on Sunday, August 30, 2015. Dr. Chang was absolutely wonderful from the initial diagnosis and discussion, pre-op, post-op, hospital visits, and follow-ups, and many post-op office visits and emails to both my wife and me. Dr. Chang did an excellent job with my surgery. People cannot tell I had the accident at all, which could have left me visibly disfigured if not for Dr. Chang's excellent surgical skills. Dr. Chang was also genuinely concerned about my healing progress, making time for many follow-up appointments, sending many emails on my progress and healing process, and contacting my strabismus specialist several times to consult with her on my care. Dr. Change was always very kind and patient, never making my wife and me feel rushed, nor did we ever sense he was rushed. He always calmly, clearly, and professionally answered any and all of our questions. He was very quick to answer emails, usually the same day. I highly recommend him. Thank you, Dr. Chang, for taking such wonderful care of me!"

Sean C.
5 out of 5 stars

Dr. Chang and Dr. Jenny are an incredibly skilled surgeons

"Congressional Plastic Surgery is hands down the best. Dr. Chang and Dr. Jenny are an incredibly skilled surgeons; my results look completely natural and there isn’t a scar in s...

"Congressional Plastic Surgery is hands down the best. Dr. Chang and Dr. Jenny are an incredibly skilled surgeons; my results look completely natural and there isn’t a scar in sight. I feel like a younger version of myself! The staff is so friendly and welcoming, making the whole process feel like being with family. Everyone that has seen my results asks for their info!" 

Magda J.
5 out of 5 stars

I'm extremely grateful!

"I had an otoplasty and genioplasty with Dr. Chang, and the results have truly changed my life. He's very skilled at what he does, and I felt very well cared for throughout...

"I had an otoplasty and genioplasty with Dr. Chang, and the results have truly changed my life. He's very skilled at what he does, and I felt very well cared for throughout the entire process. The staff has also been consistently kind and supportive.

I'm extremely grateful for the care and results Dr. Chang provided."

Kevin A.
5 out of 5 stars

I have the nose of my dreams thanks to Dr. Chang!

"I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Chang! I had a previous rhinoplasty that didn’t turn out the way I wanted so I was desperate to find a top notch surgeon in the DMV a...

"I cannot say enough great things about Dr. Chang! I had a previous rhinoplasty that didn’t turn out the way I wanted so I was desperate to find a top notch surgeon in the DMV area. After many consults with other doctors I went in for my consult with Dr. Chang. Immediately upon meeting him, I knew he was going to be my surgeon. He is extremely humble, knowledgeable, and so so skilled. He made me feel heard and so comfortable. At my past consults it felt like I was being interviewed by the surgeons but Dr. Chang made the conversation flow so naturally. I felt so comfortable sharing my concerns with him. Before and after surgery Dr. Chang was amazing. He made me feel so comfortable and he was confident in his results. It’s only been 2 months but I think my revision rhinoplasty is perfect. I officially have the nose of my dreams thanks to Dr. Chang!" 

Amanda M.
5 out of 5 stars

10/10 would recommend booking an appointment

My experience here was wonderful. Everything from the front desk check in to the medical assistant helping answer my questions. The cherry on top was seeing Dr. Jenny and having...

My experience here was wonderful. Everything from the front desk check in to the medical assistant helping answer my questions. The cherry on top was seeing Dr. Jenny and having my procedures done with her. I was a new patient and she made me feel so welcome and comfortable. 10/10 would recommend booking an appointment with her.

Paulina L.

Is a Rhinoplasty Right for Me?

We are not always happy with the nose that nature gave us, and consider the size or shape to be a negative in the overall appearance of the face. A rhinoplasty surgery can refine and resolve the following aesthetic problems:

  • Drooping tip
  • Bulging nose
  • Bulbous (rounded) tip
  • Overlarge nose
  • Nose too long
  • Bent nose
  • Hooked nose
  • Crooked nose
  • Bumpy or overlarge bridge
  • Nostrils that appear too large

If you look in the mirror and are consistently unhappy about the size, shape, or appearance of your nose, it is important that you get a consultation about a rhinoplasty and find out your options. Choosing the right plastic surgeon could not be more important—your face is the first thing that is noticed about you, and after surgery, you want a balanced, natural appearance. We urge you to connect with us at our practice and schedule a consultation to find out more about your rhinoplasty in Washington, DC, options.

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Rhinoplasty in Washington, DC Before & After

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How Is Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Performed?

All of our nose surgery procedures are performed in our state-of-the-art clinics, each of which is located with easy access from the Washington, D.C. area. Our practice is focused on patient health and safety, and you can be confident that your surgery will be performed with the help of highly skilled medical professionals. The procedure that is performed will be based upon your unique situation and the corrective surgical measures that will produce a more attractive, balanced profile or correct a breathing problem impacting your general health.

The procedure you will need will depend on your individual situation. The structure of your nose, the underlying cartilage and tissue, and the rest of your face must be fully evaluated so that the correct size and shape are chosen. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis at our state-of-the-art plastic surgery clinic, with no need for an overnight stay. You may have a general or local anesthetic, depending upon the procedure, for your comfort and security. The usual procedure involves making small incisions within the nostrils. More extreme cases may require an incision under the base of the nose. The bone and cartilage will be reshaped to create a more pleasing and balanced appearance, and the skin will be replaced, and the incisions will be closed. As Dr. Chang is one of the best currently practicing providers of rhinoplasty DC has, his main focus is helping patients achieve subtle yet powerful cosmetic results.

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Recovery From a Rhinoplasty Procedure

After surgery, most often patients wear what is called a “nose splint.” This holds the tissue and cartilage in place during healing. You will have some swelling and bruising that appears under your eyes, and begins to diminish after your third day of recovery. Every person has a different physiology, so the full disappearance of the bruises will vary, but typically takes only a week or two at most. The swelling will also slowly reduce and is not extreme or noticeable to most people. The newly-shaped nose will be in its final form after you have completely healed. It is vital that you follow all the doctor’s orders over the recovery period for faster healing. You will be restricted from engaging in strenuous activity for three to six weeks. You will be able to return to your normal social activities within two to three weeks, with your newly shaped nose not showing signs of surgery, but you can expect compliments!

woman smiling over her shoulder | woman touching her face | cherry blossom trees by a pond

Risks of Rhinoplasty

As with any major surgery, rhinoplasty has risks such as bleeding, scarring, infection, or adverse reaction to anesthesia. Risks are greatly reduced when you’re in the hands of a surgeon with significant skill and expertise, such as Dr. Chang. Rhinoplasty risks may include the following:

  • Difficulty breathing through the nose
  • Septal perforation (a hole in the septum)
  • Numbness in and around the nose
  • Persistent discoloration or swelling
  • The possibility of a poor aesthetic outcome, such as an uneven-looking nose

When Choosing a Plastic Surgeon Near Me: What to Look For

A nose surgery or nose job is one of the most difficult of plastic surgery procedures, so choosing the right surgeon is exceptionally important. Some of the questions to get answered when you need to know how to choose a plastic surgeon in D.C. can include:

  • Is the surgeon a board-certified plastic surgeon?
  • Was the surgeon trained at a highly-ranked university?
  • Did the surgeon continue to advance training?
  • Can you look at photos of patients who have had a rhinoplasty performed?
  • Was the surgeon trained in advanced craniofacial surgery?
  • Are you comfortable with the surgeon and feel a rapport?
  • Is the surgical center clean, modern, and does it appear to be state-of-the-art in technology?
  • Did you feel the surgeon was interested in you and your concerns, and listened closely?

We invite you to visit our rhinoplasty DC offices for a consultation. That will allow you to see the facility, meet our staff, and experience the difference in our approach. Call today for more information or to schedule an appointment to meet with us.

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Meet Our Plastic Surgeons

Every patient at Congressional Plastic Surgery is cared for by board-certified surgeons who bring decades of combined training and expertise to every procedure we offer.

Dr. Christopher Chang is a double board-certified plastic surgeon with training from Harvard College, NYU School of Medicine, and Yale-New Haven Hospital, along with a fellowship in advanced craniofacial surgery from Johns Hopkins Hospital. He founded Congressional Plastic Surgery in 2015 and continues to perform a high volume of surgical and aesthetic procedures.

Dr. Hillary Jenny is a board-eligible plastic surgeon who trained at MIT and earned her MD and MPH from the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai. She completed her residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital and a fellowship in aesthetic surgery in Beverly Hills, bringing specialized expertise in natural, individualized results.

Rhinoplasty Frequently Asked Questions

What can rhinoplasty address?

Rhinoplasty can address a wide range of cosmetic and structural concerns involving the nose. Nasal concerns may be present from birth or develop later due to injury or trauma. Rhinoplasty can address both the appearance of the nose and certain breathing-related concerns.

Dr. Christopher Chang creates a customized surgical plan to address concerns such as:

  • A wide or bulbous nasal tip
  • A drooping nasal tip
  • A pronounced nasal bridge
  • A bump on the bridge of the nose
  • Overly large nostrils
  • Nasal asymmetry
  • A deviated septum that may interfere with breathing

Addressing structural concerns within the nose can also help improve airflow and breathing function.

Am I a candidate for nose surgery?

Rhinoplasty is commonly performed for adults and adolescents who are unhappy with the shape, size, or projection of their nose. The procedure is customized to complement your individual facial features.

Teenagers are generally advised to wait until they have finished growing before undergoing rhinoplasty. Adults considering nose reshaping should:

  • Be in good general health
  • Have realistic expectations about surgery, recovery, and results
  • Be a nonsmoker or willing to quit smoking

During your private consultation with Dr. Chang, you can discuss your aesthetic goals and the changes you envision. Bringing photos of nose shapes you like and reviewing before-and-after images of patients with similar facial structures can also help communicate your goals.

How long does a rhinoplasty take?

The length of rhinoplasty depends on your existing nasal structure and the extent of the changes required. A straightforward rhinoplasty may take approximately one to one and a half hours, while more complex procedures may require three to four hours.

Dr. Chang will discuss the details of your procedure during your initial consultation. Because you will have received anesthesia, you will need a family member or friend to drive you home after surgery.

Is nose surgery painful?

Rhinoplasty itself is not painful because the procedure is performed under anesthesia. Depending on the extent of the surgery, you may receive general or local anesthesia. As the numbing medication wears off, you may experience tenderness, sensitivity, and discomfort that can feel similar to nasal congestion or a sinus headache. Prescription medication can help keep you comfortable during the early stages of recovery.

Following your aftercare instructions is important for supporting healing and reducing the risk of complications. Any residual discomfort after the initial recovery period can typically be managed with over-the-counter pain medication as recommended by your surgeon.

How long is the recovery period after rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is typically performed as an outpatient procedure, allowing you to return home to rest afterward. You should have a trusted adult available to assist you for at least the first 24 hours. Recovery varies depending on the extent of the procedure and how your body heals, but most patients can resume light activity within five to seven days.

Bruising and swelling generally improve significantly within two weeks, although minor swelling may continue for several months and gradually become less noticeable. Dr. Chang will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your healing and progress.

It's important to protect your nose during recovery. Avoid activities that could cause your nose to be bumped, as the bones and cartilage may continue settling into position for a month or longer after surgery.

What are the benefits of rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can improve the appearance of your nose while also addressing certain structural concerns that may affect your ability to breathe freely. Because the nose is a prominent facial feature, reshaping concerns such as size, shape, projection, or nostril width can create greater facial balance and harmony.

For patients who feel self-conscious about the appearance of their nose, achieving a more balanced appearance may also improve confidence and satisfaction with their overall facial appearance.

Will my breathing improve with rhinoplasty?

When structural issues are contributing to restricted airflow, rhinoplasty can address certain concerns that interfere with breathing. Improving nasal airflow may also support better sleep and make everyday activities more comfortable. During your consultation, Dr. Chang can evaluate your nasal structure and determine whether rhinoplasty may help address your breathing concerns.

Why should I choose Dr. Christopher Chang for rhinoplasty?

Dr. Chang is a board-certified plastic surgeon with advanced training and experience in facial and cosmetic surgery, including modern rhinoplasty techniques. He combines precise surgical techniques with an artistic approach to facial balance and harmony.

Dr. Chang has earned degrees from Harvard and Yale and has presented his work and expertise at regional, national, and international plastic surgery conferences and meetings. He develops a customized surgical plan for each patient based on their anatomy, goals, and desired outcome.

Why is choosing the right plastic surgeon important for rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is one of the most complex facial plastic surgery procedures and requires precise changes to the nose's structure. Choosing an experienced plastic surgeon with specialized expertise in rhinoplasty can help ensure that your procedure is carefully planned around your facial anatomy and goals.

Dr. Chang is also frequently consulted for revision rhinoplasty when patients are unhappy with the results of a previous surgery. During a consultation, he can discuss your goals, evaluate your nasal structure, and explain what may be possible to create a nose shape and size that complements your other facial features.

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