Endoscopic Rhinoplasty

What is an endoscopic rhinoplasty?

An endoscopic rhinoplasty utilizes the closed rhinoplasty surgical approach (meaning internal incisions without full retraction and exposure of the nasal structures) with the assistance of a small, lighted camera (endoscopic approach) to help the surgeon better visualize internal structures. This type of nasal surgery approach allows for more precise alterations with less invasiveness and recovery time. Many surgeons maintain, however, it is not as effective as the full, open plastic surgery approach.

The Anatomy of the Nose

What cosmetic concerns does an endoscopic rhinoplasty procedure treat?

1. Nose Shape: Endoscopic rhinoplasties allow for alterations to the soft and hard tissues of the nose to enhance overall shape.
2. Nose Size: Nose size and the proportion of the nose to other facial features can be addressed through an endoscopic rhinoplasty.
3. Cosmetic Breathing Issues: Altering the nose size and shape can allow for better air flow through the nasal passages and ease mild breathing concerns.
4. 4. Nose Angle: Genetics or nasal trauma (think: a nasal fracture) can cause a crooked nose, nasal deviation, or concerns with the angle of the nose, and those concerns can be addressed with surgical intervention.
5. Nose Bump: For people dealing with structural dorsal humps, both non-surgical and surgical rhinoplasty may be able to address them.

Who is the ideal candidate for an endoscopic rhinoplasty procedure?

Endoscopic rhinoplasties are believed to offer the less invasive/less recovery benefits of a closed approach with better visualization. Ideal candidates have minor nasal deformities, require revision rhinoplasties, or chronic sinus problems. Endoscopic rhinoplasty is not recommended for children under the age of 18 or those with more involved concerns.

What is the average recovery associated with an endoscopic rhinoplasty procedure?

Most patients experience less than one week of initial recovery time. Most swelling, bruising, and tenderness will resolve within a week. Many patients return to work within five to seven days. Activity precautions are taken for up to six weeks.

What are the potential side effects of an endoscopic rhinoplasty procedure?

As with the closed rhinoplasty approach, an endoscopic rhinoplasty carries minimal to no scarring risk due to the internal incisions. As with any surgical procedure, numbness, nerve damage, and blood vessel damage may occur.

What can someone expect from the results of an endoscopic rhinoplasty procedure?

An endoscopic rhinoplasty provides permanent results that evolve into the final appearance over the course of 12 to 18 months. To better understand the healing and downtime associated with the procedure, check out our complete guide to rhinoplasty recovery.

What is the average cost of an endoscopic rhinoplasty procedure?

This is a one time permanent surgical procedure that can cost anywhere from $3,000 to $15,000. The actual cost of the procedure is dependent upon location, surgeon, and length and involvement of the surgery. To learn more, check out our complete guide to rhinoplasty cost.