What are the pros and cons of rhinoplasty?

Nose surgery is one of the most commonly performed aesthetic enhancement procedures. This technique is designed to enhance the cosmetic appearance of the nose, and can also be used to improve breathing function. Rhinoplasty can modify the size and shape of the nose in many ways, including changing the width of the bridge, addressing humps or bumps, altering the angle of the tip, reducing or expanding the size of the nostrils, and several other features. During your initial consultation, our doctors will discuss your goals and evaluate your needs to develop a customized treatment plan. 2

Can rhinoplasty improve my breathing problems?

Absolutely. Rhinoplasty is often used to address breathing problems and issues with congestion that may be caused by a patient’s anatomy. This technique is sometimes called septoplasty, as it often requires modifying the wall that separates the two nostrils, which is called the septum. A deviated septum can cause a blockage in one or both nasal passages, leading to difficulties breathing and other concerns. Our team can determine if a deviated septum or another condition is affecting your ability to breathe and take that into consideration when devising your treatment plan. 3

What will rhinoplasty scars look like?

Most patients heal very well after nose surgery, and many find the scars unnoticeable. The location of the incision will depend on whether you have an open or closed procedure. If the technique used is a closed one, you may not have any visible scars. Open rhinoplasty uses an incision on the fleshy bridge between the nostrils to gain access to the internal structures. This, too, should heal to the point that the average person likely would not notice the mark. To further enhance the result, our practice offers laser skin resurfacing to help minimize the appearance of an operation.

Rhinoplasty

Patient Photos

The nose sits at the center of the face, and even subtle changes to its shape, size, or structure can have a profound effect on overall facial harmony and self-confidence. Rhinoplasty, commonly called a “nose job,” is one of the most technically demanding and rewarding procedures in plastic surgery. At Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates, board-certified plastic surgeons Dr. W. Tracy Hankins and Dr. Samuel M. Sohn bring decades of combined experience to patients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, and the greater Nevada region.

Whether your goals are cosmetic, functional, or both, our surgeons develop a fully personalized treatment plan designed to enhance your natural facial features while delivering rhinoplasty results that look and feel authentically like you. From correcting a dorsal hump or refining a nasal tip to improving breathing problems through septoplasty, Hankins & Sohn is equipped to address a comprehensive range of nasal concerns with precision and artistry.

What Is Rhinoplasty?
Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty Surgical Techniques
Ethnic and Asian Rhinoplasty
Revision Rhinoplasty
The Rhinoplasty Procedure: What to Expect
Risks and Considerations
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
Why Choose Hankins & Sohn, and Meet Our Surgeons
FAQs About Rhinoplasty
Schedule A Consultation for Rhinoplasty

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that modifies the shape, size, or internal structure of the nose to improve its appearance, function, or both. It consistently ranks among the top five most commonly performed cosmetic procedures in the United States, according to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons.¹

Rhinoplasty can address a wide range of concerns, including:

Dorsal humps or bumps along the nasal bridge
A wide, bulbous, or asymmetrical nasal tip
Overly large or flared nostrils
A crooked or deviated nasal bridge
Nasal asymmetry from injury or birth defects
Breathing problems caused by a deviated septum or structural obstruction
Disproportionate nose size relative to other facial features

The rhinoplasty procedure is performed under general anesthesia and requires a surgeon with both technical precision and an artistic eye to achieve results that harmonize naturally with your facial features.²

Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

The best candidates for rhinoplasty are individuals who are in good overall health, have realistic expectations, and are motivated by personal goals. Our surgeons conduct a thorough review of your medical history and nasal anatomy during your consultation to determine whether rhinoplasty is the right approach for you.

You may be a good candidate if you:

Are bothered by the appearance of your nose and wish to reshape or refine it
Experience breathing problems related to your nasal structure
Have fully developed facial bones (typically age 16 or older)
Are a non-smoker or are willing to stop smoking before and after surgery
Do not have active infections or uncontrolled medical conditions³

During your consultation, Dr. Hankins or Dr. Sohn will evaluate your skin type, nasal anatomy, and overall facial proportions to help you understand what rhinoplasty can realistically achieve for your unique situation.

Rhinoplasty Surgical Techniques

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision made along the columella, the narrow strip of tissue that separates the two nostrils. This approach provides direct access to the nasal bones, cartilage, and underlying structures, making it the preferred technique for more complex reshaping, tip refinement, or cases requiring cartilage grafts. While there is a small external scar at the columella, it typically heals to a nearly invisible line.

Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed rhinoplasty uses incisions placed entirely inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scarring. This approach is associated with a shorter recovery process and less post-operative swelling in some patients. However, it is not appropriate for every case. Our surgeons will recommend the surgical technique best suited to your anatomy and goals.

Both approaches are performed under general anesthesia in an accredited surgical facility. The choice between open and closed rhinoplasty is made collaboratively during your consultation based on the complexity of your concerns and the rhinoplasty results you hope to achieve.

Ethnic and Asian Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. Cosmetic surgery should honor and preserve the characteristics that make each person’s heritage and identity unique. At Hankins & Sohn, our surgeons are experienced in performing ethnic rhinoplasty for patients of diverse backgrounds, including African American, Latino/Hispanic, Middle Eastern, and Asian patients.

Ethnic rhinoplasty requires a highly individualized approach. Asian rhinoplasty often focuses on augmenting a flatter nasal bridge or refining the nasal tip while preserving the natural characteristics of the patient’s facial structure. African American rhinoplasty may involve refining nostril width or tip projection while maintaining the natural fullness and balance of the face. Latino and Middle Eastern rhinoplasty often addresses dorsal humps or tip definition while respecting the patient’s distinct facial proportions.

Our surgeons take the time to understand your aesthetic goals within the context of your ethnic background, ensuring that your rhinoplasty results enhance your appearance without erasing the features that make you uniquely you.

Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty, also called secondary rhinoplasty, is performed to correct or improve the results of a prior nose surgery. Whether you are unhappy with the cosmetic outcome of a previous procedure or experienced insufficient improvement in breathing function, our surgeons can evaluate your situation and develop a plan to address your concerns.

Revision rhinoplasty is considerably more complex than primary rhinoplasty. Scar tissue from the original surgery, changes to the nasal bones and cartilage, and altered anatomy all contribute to the technical challenges involved. For this reason, it is essential to choose a plastic surgeon with extensive experience in both primary and secondary procedures.

Dr. Hankins and Dr. Sohn have performed rhinoplasty surgery at all levels of complexity and are well-versed in the nuanced surgical techniques required for successful revision outcomes. If you have had a prior nose surgery and are considering a revision, we encourage you to schedule a consultation to discuss your medical history, your goals, and what a secondary procedure may realistically achieve.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure: What to Expect

Your Consultation

Your rhinoplasty journey begins with a comprehensive consultation with Dr. Hankins or Dr. Sohn. During this appointment, your surgeon will review your medical history, examine your nasal anatomy, discuss your cosmetic and functional goals, and explain which surgical techniques are most appropriate for your case. This is also the time to ask questions, review before-and-after photos, and gain a clear understanding of the recovery process.

Surgery Day

Rhinoplasty surgery is performed under general anesthesia on an outpatient basis, meaning most patients return home the same day. The procedure typically takes between one and three hours depending on the complexity of the case. Your surgeon will make the appropriate incisions, reshape the nasal bones and cartilage as planned, and close the incisions carefully. A splint is placed on the nose to support the new structure during the initial healing process.

Recovery and Healing

Recovery from rhinoplasty requires patience. Most patients experience bruising and swelling around the nose and eyes during the first week, which subsides significantly by the end of the second week. The splint is typically removed at your one-week follow-up appointment.

Key recovery milestones include:

Week 1: Rest, head elevation, and splint wear. Bruising and swelling are most pronounced.
Week 2: Splint removed at follow-up. Most visible bruising resolves. Light activity may resume.
Month 1: Nose appears significantly more refined. Strenuous activities should still be avoided.
Months 3 to 6: Continued improvement in swelling and contour definition.
Year 1: Final rhinoplasty results are fully visible as residual swelling resolves completely.

Our team provides detailed post-operative instructions and pain medication as needed to keep you comfortable throughout the healing process.

Gallery

Rhinoplasty Results

Dr. Hankins and Dr. Sohn are dedicated to delivering rhinoplasty results
that are personalized to meet each patient’s expectations.

View Our Rhinoplasty Results

Risks and Considerations

As with any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty carries potential risks that should be discussed openly before proceeding. These may include temporary bruising and swelling, asymmetry, changes in skin sensation, scarring, infection, or the need for revision surgery. Our surgeons take every precaution to minimize these risks through careful surgical planning, accredited facility standards, and thorough post-operative follow-up. During your consultation, Dr. Hankins or Dr. Sohn will walk you through all potential risks and complications specific to your case so you can make a fully informed decision.

How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?

The cost of rhinoplasty varies based on the complexity of the procedure, whether it is a primary or revision surgery, the surgical technique used, and other individualized factors. Total costs typically include:

Surgeon’s fee
Surgical facility fee
Anesthesia fee
Pre-operative medical testing
Post-operative care and follow-up visits

At Hankins & Sohn, we provide a detailed, transparent cost breakdown during your consultation so you understand exactly what is included in your quote. We also offer plastic surgery financing options to help make your rhinoplasty procedure as accessible as possible.y can realistically achieve for your unique situation.

Why Choose Hankins & Sohn, and Meet Our Surgeons

Dr. W. Tracy Hankins and Dr. Samuel M. Sohn are both certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery and are Fellow Members of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Together, they bring more than three decades of combined experience in facial plastic surgery, breast augmentation, breast lift, body contouring, facelift, liposuction, tummy tuck, and a full range of cosmetic procedures to patients throughout Las Vegas and Henderson, Nevada.

In addition to rhinoplasty, our practice offers a comprehensive suite of cosmetic procedures including non-surgical treatments such as BOTOX, dermal fillers, and injectables, allowing patients to address multiple aesthetic goals under one roof.

Dr. W. Tracy Hankins, MD, FACS

Dr. W. Tracy Hankins graduated Magna Cum Laude from Davidson College and earned his medical degree from Indiana University School of Medicine, where he was honored with the prestigious Edwards Scholarship. With more than 25 years of experience specializing in face, breast, and body aesthetics, Dr. Hankins is known for his meticulous surgical technique and his commitment to treating every patient like a member of the family.

Credentials and Recognitions:

Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Fellow Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Distinguished Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Edwards Scholarship Recipient, Indiana University School of Medicine
Top Doc, Vegas Seven Magazine
Honored in Best of Las Vegas

Dr. Samuel M. Sohn, MD

Dr. Samuel M. Sohn earned his undergraduate degree from Stanford University and his medical degree from the Medical College of Virginia. He is one of the few fellowship-trained plastic surgeons in Las Vegas, having completed an additional year of rigorous aesthetic surgery training. His approach blends state-of-the-art surgical technique with a refined artistic sensibility, with a particular emphasis on facial rejuvenation and natural-looking rhinoplasty results.

Credentials and Recognitions:

Certified by the American Board of Plastic Surgery
Fellow Member, American Society of Plastic Surgeons
Fellowship-Trained Aesthetic Plastic Surgeon (one of few in Las Vegas)
Aesculapian Research Fellowship Award, Virginia Commonwealth University
Castle Connolly Top Doctor since 2014
Top Doc, Vegas Seven Magazine

What Our Patients Are Saying

“I can’t say enough good things about Dr. Sohn and my whole rhinoplasty experience. Not only is he a gifted surgeon, he is also kind and respectful. What I loved about my initial consult was that he asked me “what is it that YOU want to change about your nose?”. I explained my insecurity about my dorsal hump and how I also wanted a lifted tip. He walked me through everything they could do to make that happen. He never said a negative word about my insecurity. He made more of the focus when talking to me about accenting and emphasizing the good qualities I already had. This was a big difference from other consults I had been to where I was immediately called “the beautiful girl with a big nose”, or even using the term “ugly nose”.“

– M.F., Google Review ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Hear From More Satisfied Patients

Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty

What are the benefits of rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can improve both the appearance and function of the nose. Cosmetically, it can reshape the nasal bridge, refine the tip, reduce or expand nostril size, correct asymmetry, and create better balance among your facial features. Functionally, it can correct a deviated septum, improve airflow, and resolve chronic breathing problems. Many patients report significant improvements in self-confidence and self-esteem following their procedure.
Can rhinoplasty improve my breathing problems?

Yes. Rhinoplasty is frequently used to address structural causes of breathing difficulties, including a deviated septum. When the procedure focuses primarily on the septum, it is referred to as septoplasty. Our surgeons can evaluate whether your breathing problems are related to your nasal anatomy and incorporate functional corrections into your overall treatment plan.
What will my rhinoplasty scars look like?

Scarring depends on the technique used. Closed rhinoplasty leaves no visible external scars, as all incisions are made inside the nostrils. Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision at the columella, which typically heals to a fine, nearly invisible line. Most patients find their scars unnoticeable within several months of surgery.
How long do rhinoplasty results last?

Rhinoplasty results are considered permanent. Once the nasal bones and cartilage have been reshaped and the healing process is complete, the structural changes are lasting. Minor changes due to natural aging may occur over time, but the core improvements achieved through rhinoplasty are long-term.
How much does rhinoplasty cost in Las Vegas?

The total cost of rhinoplasty in Las Vegas and Henderson depends on the complexity of your procedure, the surgical technique used, and whether this is a primary or revision surgery. During your consultation, we provide a detailed, itemized cost estimate that includes the surgeon’s fee, facility fee, and anesthesia fee. Financing options are available.
Is there a non-surgical alternative to rhinoplasty?

For patients who are not ready for surgery or who have minor concerns, a non-surgical nose job using dermal fillers or injectables may be an option. This approach can temporarily smooth bumps, improve symmetry, or refine the nasal tip without incisions or downtime. However, it cannot reduce the size of the nose or correct functional issues. Our team can help you determine whether a surgical or non-surgical approach is best suited to your goals.

Contact Us

If you are considering rhinoplasty near you in Las Vegas or Henderson, Nevada, we invite you to take the first step toward the nose and the confidence you have always wanted. Schedule your consultation with Dr. Hankins or Dr. Sohn today. Our team is here to answer your questions, walk you through your options, and help you feel completely informed and at ease before making any decisions.

We proudly serve patients throughout Las Vegas, Henderson, and the greater Nevada region.

Schedule Your Consultation

¹ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. 2024 Plastic Surgery Statistics. Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/documents/news/statistics/2024/plastic-surgery-statistics-report-2024.pdf. Accessed March 19, 2026.

² Mayo Clinic. Rhinoplasty. Available: https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/rhinoplasty/about/pac-20384532. Accessed March 19, 2026.

³ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who is a good candidate for rhinoplasty? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/rhinoplasty/candidates. Accessed March 19, 2026.

⁴ American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What are the risks of rhinoplasty? Available: https://www.plasticsurgery.org/cosmetic-procedures/rhinoplasty/safety. Accessed March 19, 2026.

Page Updated: June 19, 2026

This content has either been authored or reviewed and approved by the doctors at Hankins & Sohn Plastic Surgery Associates.