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As a destination practice offering world-class care, the Quatela Center attracts patients from around the globe. Our virtual consultations and support program take the effort out of travelling for surgery.
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Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery
973 East Avenue
Rochester, NY 14607
Phone: (585) 244-1000
Fax: (585) 271-4786
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery
973 East Avenue
Rochester, NY 14607
Phone: (585) 244-1000
Fax: (585) 271-4786
Monday–Friday: 8:30 a.m.–5 p.m.
Rhinoplasty
Choosing the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery for rhinoplasty (nose job) in Rochester, New York, means having one of the pioneers of modern cosmetic nose surgery techniques perform the operation. Dr. Vito C. Quatela has dedicated much of his career to perfecting surgical techniques and achieving consistently excellent results. In addition to performing hundreds of rhinoplasty procedures, Dr. Quatela is a noted instructor who has taught this technically challenging operation to several generations of surgeons, including Dr. Heather Lee and Dr. Alex Montague.
In addition to Rochester, NY, locals, men and women considering rhinoplasty travel from Buffalo and Syracuse to have their procedures performed at the Quatela Center. Request your consultation to meet personally with one of our facial plastic surgeons using our online form, or call our office at (585) 244-1000 to schedule an appointment.
Rhinoplasty
Before & After Photos
Case: 1 of 9
Before & After
Case: 8 of 8
Case #1001506
This patient was bothered by a long tip, lack of definition, and a bump on the dorsum. Dr. Quatela performed a rhinoplasty to address her concerns.
Keep in mind that each patient is unique and your results may vary.
Choosing the Right Plastic Surgeon
Dr. Vito C. Quatela is a double board-certified facial plastic and reconstructive surgeon with over 30 years of experience performing facial rejuvenation procedures. Dr. Quatela is a past president of the American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery and is highly respected by his peers as a recognized expert in all areas of facial plastic surgery, including rhinoplasty, facelift, and other facial procedures.
Dr. Heather Lee is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist who has trained extensively with Dr. Quatela. She specializes in both aesthetic and functional procedures and is known for her meticulous surgical results and compassionate care.
Dr. Alex Montague is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist who trained under Dr. Quatela for a facial plastic and reconstructive surgery fellowship. He has exemplary skills in both technique and patient care and specializes in aesthetic and functional procedures.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping) improves the nose aesthetically – making it harmonize better with the other facial features – while maintaining or improving function. Septorhinoplasty can also restore function to the nasal passages in patients who struggle to breathe through their nose. Because it is the most defining feature of the face and vital for proper breathing and comfort, the nose and its size and shape significantly affect a person’s appearance.
Nasal surgery consists of reshaping the cartilage and bone of the nose to achieve aesthetically pleasing results while maintaining or optimizing function and making sure the patient can continue to breathe well.
Related Rhinoplasty Blog Posts
Ideal Rhinoplasty Candidates
People seek rhinoplasty for various reasons. Some patients want a straighter nose and others want their nostrils narrowed. A person may also opt to have rhinoplasty if he or she feels the nose is disproportionately large. The nasal tip also has a tendency to lose support and droop as a result of the normal aging process, and many patients are seeking to reverse that.
Ideal candidates for cosmetic rhinoplasty are concerned with the shape or size of their nose and the way it fits their facial features. It is important for a patient to be in overall good health, with realistic expectations for what can be achieved with nose surgery. Certain medical conditions may need prior clearance from a patient’s family physician or specialist before surgery.
Your Guide to Rhinoplasty Surgery
Ready to discover how a rhinoplasty can reshape your nose? Get the facts about the procedure when you download our free eBook, Your Guide to Rhinoplasty Surgery. The guide offers extensive information about rhinoplasty, including what to expect before, during, and after the surgery. You'll also find answers to your most pressing rhinoplasty questions and a helpful surgery prep list.
Submit the form below to receive a link to our free eBook.
Functional Nose Surgery
Other patients in Rochester, Buffalo, and Syracuse may require nose surgery for reasons other than a cosmetic change. These patients struggle to breathe through their nose due to constricted or collapsed nasal valves, a condition that may occur with the aging process, trauma, infection, or scarring from previous surgery. To correct these conditions, Dr. Heather Lee and Dr. Alex Montague perform a procedure called functional rhinoplasty and/or septoplasty to repair and widen the nasal valves within the nostrils, restoring function to the nose. They also perform septorhinoplasty, which combines rhinoplasty and septoplasty procedures.
How Much Does a Rhinoplasty (“Nose Job”) Cost in Rochester, NY?
The cost of a rhinoplasty in Rochester, Buffalo, or Syracuse, NY, varies, depending on your specific needs and goals. All prices quoted from the Quatela Center are all-inclusive and include pre and postoperative appointments, surgeon’s fees, surgery center fees, and anesthesia costs. For more information, see our page on Plastic Surgery Costs.
Vito C. Quatela, M.D., FACS
Specializes in Facial Procedures
Compassionate and dedicated to personalized patient care, Dr. Quatela is a board-certified facial plastic surgeon recognized worldwide for his expertise in facial rejuvenation. He established the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery in Rochester, New York to provide excellence in aesthetic surgery.
Read OnYour Rhinoplasty Consultation
When most patients come in for a cosmetic surgery consultation, they may only focus on one aspect of their appearance. Facial plastic surgeons are trained to focus on the patient’s whole appearance. During your initial consultation, your surgeon examines the function and form of your nose as well as the bony architecture and soft tissue. He/she will take into consideration your ethnicity and skin type, and will give you an idea of what you can expect from rhinoplasty surgery with the aid of computer imaging.
What Procedures Can Be Combined With Rhinoplasty?
Many people combine rhinoplasty with other procedures for a more balanced enhancement of the face. Options include:
- Facelift
- Chin implants and cheek implants
- Eyelid surgery
- Skin resurfacing procedures such as laser surgery and chemical peels
- Injectable fillers
Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
Our surgeons perform rhinoplasty using either the open or closed technique. Here are some differences:
- Open rhinoplasty involves an incision along the undersurface of the outer portion of the nose called the columella. This incision generally heals very well with minimal scarring. This technique provides unobstructed access to the internal structures of the nose.
- Closed rhinoplasty is an option for some patients that involves several incisions made on the inside of the nose with no external incision.
These options will be discussed in detail at your individual consultation appointment with your surgeon.
What’s the Difference Between Rhinoplasty and Revision Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty improves the appearance and functioning of the nose. Revision rhinoplasty corrects unsatisfactory results of a previous rhinoplasty. Revision surgery of the nose is significantly more complex than primary surgery (the first time) because of the impact on the internal structures of the nose as well as scarring. It is critical to choose a surgeon who is highly experienced in revision procedures such as Dr. Quatela, Dr. Lee, and Dr. Montague.
Your Rhinoplasty Procedure
The rhinoplasty procedure is done under monitored anesthetic. Your surgeon will address the changes you would like to make to your nose using the imaged photo from your consultation as a reference. Rhinoplasty surgery is different for each patient; your procedure will be customized to your desired outcome.
Heather Lee, M.D.
Specializes in Facial Procedures
A board-certified facial plastic surgeon and a board-certified otolaryngologist–head and neck surgeon, Dr. Lee is dedicated to improving the lives of adults and children by using her surgical talents. She specializes in procedures of the face and head including facelift, functional and cosmetic nose surgery, blepharoplasty, and injectable treatments.
Read OnHow Long Does It Take to Recover From a Nose Job?
Patient experiences vary after rhinoplasty. Here is a general timeline:
Day of surgery: You will return home the day of surgery with a cast over your nose that must be kept dry. Swelling and bruising around the eyes and cheeks are normal after this surgery.
Day 3: Sutures are removed at a post-op appointment.
7 to 10 days: The cast is removed at a post-op appointment. In most cases, the nose will become more swollen without the pressure from the cast. Bruising and swelling begin to fade.
1 to 2 weeks: Many rhinoplasty patients return to work, school, and nonstrenuous activities. Most feel comfortable being seen in public. Residual bruising can be camouflaged with makeup, which can be taught to you by our experts at Q the Medical Spa at Lindsay House.
3 weeks: Patients may resume sports, bending, lifting, and strenuous physical activities as cleared by their doctor. Ease into it by gradually increasing your activity level.
6 weeks: The nasal bones should be fully healed. Swimming is allowed in most cases.
3 months: The nose will be close to its final shape and size. Swelling can take up to a year to completely fade, especially in the tip of the nose.
4 to 6 months: Patients have healed enough to resume contact and semi-contact sports.
Alex Montague, M.D.
Specializes in Facial Procedures
Known for his exemplary skills in both technique and patient care, Dr. Montague is a double board-certified facial plastic surgeon and otolaryngologist-head and neck surgeon. He specializes in cosmetic and functional facial surgery and injectable treatments.
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Instructions for Before and After Rhinoplasty
Prior to your nose surgery, a nurse provides detailed instructions for incision care and surgical site care. These are designed to allow for proper healing and to help you achieve the best results. Closely following the postoperative instructions is important for a successful recovery.
It is important to know what to expect during all phases of the rhinoplasty procedure. For proper healing and to achieve satisfactory results, patients must closely follow their doctor’s instructions both before and after the operation. Our goal at the Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery is to ensure a safe surgical procedure and recovery.
You will meet with our nursing team before surgery during a 1-hour pre-operative visit. We will review your medical health history and obtain medications, perform a physical exam, and review and order postoperative medications. We also provide information about what to expect both before and after surgery. You will also receive written educational information for your reference.
These instructions are available to download and print.
How Long Does It Take to See Results After Rhinoplasty?
It usually takes from 6 months to a full year to evaluate the final results following rhinoplasty. However, after 3 months, most patients are approaching it, with about 90% of their final result. Do not hesitate to contact our office if you have any questions or concerns arise during your recovery.
Rhinoplasty FAQ
What is the best age to get a rhinoplasty?
People of many different ages can benefit from nose reshaping surgery. On the younger end, it is best to wait until your nose has finished developing, which is typically in the teen years. On the older end, you can have a rhinoplasty done at any time as long as you are in good enough health to undergo surgery safely.
What is a liquid rhinoplasty?
People who want a nonsurgical alternative to a nose job may be able to attain minor alterations to the shape of their nose with dermal filler injections. This procedure, called liquid rhinoplasty, can temporarily reshape the tip and the bridge of the nose, but it cannot make the nose smaller or correct structural issues. Results are instant and no downtime is needed.
Is rhinoplasty safe?
Rhinoplasty is a low-risk procedure when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. While there are some risks, complications are rare. Potential complications include infection, difficulty breathing through the nose, an unsatisfactory appearance, and changes in skin sensation around the nose. The Quatela Center for Plastic Surgery team takes every precaution before, during, and after your rhinoplasty to keep your risk of complications very low.
Can I see what my post-surgical nose might look like before surgery?
Yes, your surgeon will use digital imaging during your rhinoplasty consultation to show you what your nose might look like after surgery. Your desired changes will be discussed and shown using photos taken at the consultation.
How long do I have to have packing in my nose?
Packing is not always placed after nose surgery. When used, packing will typically remain in place until the day after surgery. Small splints are also sometimes placed inside of the nose and left in place for 7 days post-procedure.
Is the surgery painful? Do they have to break your nose?
Most patients feel stuffiness and discomfort after rhinoplasty but not significant pain. In some cases, the surgeon may need to “break the nose” (called an osteotomy) to remove nasal bone and cartilage or change the position of the nasal bones. This process is carefully performed with a specialized tool.
How long will my nose appear swollen?
It can take some time for swelling to resolve after rhinoplasty surgery. Most of the swelling usually goes away after the first few weeks and months, but a small amount of residual swelling can take 6 months to 1 year to resolve.
How long will rhinoplasty results last?
Rhinoplasty results last indefinitely as long as there is no trauma to the nose. There may be subtle changes to the nose over time due to the natural aging process.
Quatela Center
for Plastic Surgery
The Quatela Center's reputation as one of New York's finest cosmetic plastic surgery practices attracts patients to Rochester from throughout the state. Choose one of the locations below for driving directions to our practice.