Rhinoplasty in Fort Lauderdale
with Dr. ThomassenWhat is a Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that enhances the appearance and function of the nose. It is used to refine nasal shape, improve facial harmony, and address functional issues like chronic nasal obstruction or breathing difficulty.
At Thomassen Plastic Surgery in Fort Lauderdale, board-certified plastic surgeon Dr. John Michael Thomassen brings more than 19 years of specialized experience in rhinoplasty, consistently delivering natural-looking, balanced results for both cosmetic and reconstructive purposes.
What Does a Rhinoplasty Treat?
Rhinoplasty can correct a range of aesthetic and functional concerns, including:
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Wide nasal bridge or bony hump (dorsal hump)
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Drooping or upturned nasal tip
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Bulbous or enlarged nasal tip
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Large or flared nostrils
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Crooked or asymmetrical nose
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Excess nasal projection or length
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Breathing problems due to:
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Deviated septum
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Weak nasal valves (internal/external)
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Enlarged turbinates
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Why Choose Dr. Thomassen for your Rhinoplasty?
Choosing the right surgeon is critical to achieving the best possible rhinoplasty outcomes. Dr. Thomassen is a highly respected leader in cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty in South Florida, known for his precision, compassion, and artistic approach.
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Board-Certified Expertise: Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery, Dr. Thomassen combines deep aesthetic training with complex reconstructive skills.
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Personalized Surgical Plans: Every nose is different. Dr. Thomassen uses detailed imaging and facial analysis to design a custom surgical plan tailored to your features and goals.
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Extensive Experience in Complex Cases: He routinely performs secondary and tertiary rhinoplasty, ethnic rhinoplasty, and nasal reconstruction for patients with prior surgeries or challenging anatomy.
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Fully Accredited In-House Surgery Center: Enjoy the privacy and convenience of our on-site facility in Fort Lauderdale, designed for safety, comfort, and efficient recovery.
Who is a Good Candidate?
Ideal candidates for rhinoplasty are:
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Healthy adults concerned with the shape, size, or symmetry of their nose
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Individuals with chronic nasal obstruction seeking functional improvement
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Teens who have completed facial growth (typically age 16 for girls, 17 for boys)
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Non-smokers or those willing to stop smoking during recovery
Preparing for your Surgery
Medications
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Stop aspirin, ibuprofen, and other NSAIDs 2 weeks prior.
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Discontinue any herbal supplements that may interfere with bleeding or healing.
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Tylenol is safe to continue using.
Smoking
Physical Exam
Preoperative Clearance
Days before Surgery
- Avoid strenuous exercise in the days leading up to your surgery. You should be well rested leading up to your surgery date. Also avoid excessive sun exposure.
- Refrain from alcohol the week before surgery.
- Stop using skin irritants on your face 1 week before surgery, including light peels, acne medication, and retinoic acid.
- Pick up your prescriptions with plenty of time before your procedure.
- Set up a comfortable recovery area at home. Plan your meals including a light clear liquid meal for the first night.
- Plan for someone to be with you for 24 hours after surgery.
- You will receive a call from our Operating Room Nurse a few days before your procedure. They will go over the consent and any preoperative details and instructions to make sure you are ready for surgery.
- You will recieve a call from our Anesthesia Provider the day before. They go over your medications and discuss details about your anesthesia.
- Use antibacterial soap when showering the day before surgery.
- Remove any piercings or jewelry you may have before coming in for the procedure.
What to expect the day of surgery
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Wear loose, comfortable clothing
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Meet the surgical team and anesthesia provider
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Procedure lasts 2–3 hours under general anesthesia
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Wake up with internal and/or external nasal splints
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Go home the same day after meeting discharge criteria
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Dr. Thomassen will personally follow up that evening
What Anesthesia is Used for a Rhinoplasty Procedure?
How long does a Rhinoplasty take?
Recovery and Results after your Rhinoplasty?
You will require 1 week of rest to recover from the procedure. During this week, you will be comfortable at home, taking the prescribed medications as needed. You should rest with your head elevated during this week. Dr. Thomassen will follow up with you periodically to make sure you are comfortable and recovering as expected. You may experience bruising and swelling around the nose that will resolve in 1 week. If you have any questions during your recovery, Dr. Thomassen will be just 1 phone call away.
Dr. Thomassen removes the splints and sutures on the first visit after surgery, approximately 1 week from the surgery. You will see an immediate improvement in the shape and size of your nose. Swelling will still be present at one week postop. The most dramatic improvements do occur around the 2-3rd week after surgery when most of the swelling has resolved. After this week of recovery, you may return to sedentary activities like desk-work and light exercise. Full exercise is usually not started until 3 weeks after surgery.
You should not plan to undertake any strenuous exercise for at least 4 weeks after surgery. Light walking is fine the first week and you can gradually increase excercise as you feel better.
