Rhinoplasty, or surgery to re-shape the nose, is one of the most common of all plastic surgery procedures. Rhinoplasty can reduce or increase the size of your nose, change the shape of the tip or the bridge, narrow the span of the nostrils, or change the angle between your nose and your upper lip. It may also correct a birth defect or injury, or help relieve some breathing problems. Rhinoplasty can enhance your appearance, and therefore your self-confidence, but it won't necessarily change your looks to match your ideal. Before deciding to have surgery, think carefully about your expectations and discuss them with your surgeon. The best candidates for rhinoplasty are people who are looking for improvement, not perfection, in the way they look, as is with the case of any cosmetic procedure. Good communication between you and your physician is essential. In your initial consultation, the surgeon will ask what you'd like your nose to look like, evaluate the structure of your nose and face, and discuss the possibilities with you. He or she will also explain the factors that can influence the procedure and the results. These factors include the structure of your nasal bones and cartilage, the shape of your face, the thickness of your skin, your age, and your expectations. It is important for you to tell your surgeon if you've had any previous nose surgery or an injury to your nose, even if the incident occurred years ago. You should also inform your surgeon if you have any allergies or breathing difficulties, if you are taking medications or other types of drugs and if you smoke. All if this is important information. Don't hesitate to ask your doctor any questions you may have. Likewise, should the surgeon give you specific pre-operation instructions, follow them to the letter. A nose job will normally take a couple of hours, though complicated procedures may take longer. How the actual surgery works will depend on your problem and your surgeon's preferred technique. When the actual surgery is complete, a splint will be applied to help your nose maintain its new shape. Nasal packs or soft plastic splints also may be placed in your nostrils to stabilize the septum, the dividing wall between the air passages. Recovery will take some time, so the first few days expect to stay in bed, and have an ice pack handy to help reduce swelling and bruising. Take any additional advice your doctor gives you, then enjoy! You paid for this new improved look, so go out in confidence and enjoy it.