Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can be an important step in the gender confirmation process, helping you enjoy a facial appearance that best aligns with your gender preference.

Woman smiling while standing on the sidewalk

Rhinoplasty for Gender Confirmation

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job, is a surgical procedure that alters the shape and size of the nose to create a more feminine or masculine appearance, so you can enjoy a look that is better aligned with the gender identity of your preference. For many trans individuals, the shape and size of their noses can be a source of dysphoria, causing them to feel uncomfortable or unhappy with their appearance. Rhinoplasty can help alleviate this dysphoria by creating a nose that aligns with their gender identity. Here at Elanic Hospital, we offer patients in Glasgow and the surrounding areas access to the timely and efficient healthcare they deserve. Our staff is populated with a series of handpicked experts, each one having been selected for their compassion, expertise, and welcoming bedside manner. To learn more about what Elanic can do for you, reach out to our Glasgow offices and speak with a helpful team member to set up your appointment today.

Why Consider Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a nose job, is a crucial aspect of gender reassignment surgery for individuals seeking to transition from male to female or female to male. The nose is a defining feature of the face and plays a significant role in gender identification. Therefore, modifying the nose to match the individual's gender identity is essential.

For male-to-female transitions, rhinoplasty aims to create a more feminine nose by reducing the size and reshaping the tip and bridge. Female-to-male transitions, on the other hand, require the opposite approach, which involves increasing the size of the nose and creating a more masculine appearance.

Preparing for Rhinoplasty

Before your rhinoplasty procedure, it is important to take certain steps to ensure the best possible outcome. During your initial consultation, your surgeon will assess your nose and discuss your desired outcome. Rhinoplasty is never performed the same way twice, and your procedure will be directly customized to your personal goals.

We’ll provide you with a series of preparatory instructions before your surgery, which may include avoiding certain medications, quitting smoking, and arranging for transportation to and from the surgery center. You’ll also need to be sure to prepare for the recovery period after the surgery, during which time you will need to rest and avoid strenuous activity.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

Anesthesia and Incisions

Rhinoplasty for gender reassignment is typically performed under general anesthesia. The surgeon will make incisions inside your nose or on the skin between your nostrils, depending on the specifics of your treatment plan. The choice of incision location will be discussed during your consultation.

Reshaping the Nose

Once the incisions have been made, your surgeon will reshape your nose to achieve the desired appearance. This may involve removing bone or cartilage, adding tissue, or altering the shape of the nostrils using tools like scalpels, chisels, and lasers. The specific techniques used will depend on your individual needs and goals.

Closing the Incisions

After the reshaping is complete, your surgeon will close the incisions with sutures or surgical glue. If the incisions were made inside your nose, there will be no visible scarring. If the incisions were made on the skin between the nostrils, the scars will be small and well-hidden. You’ll then be monitored in your recovery room for a short period of time before going home.

Recovery and Aftercare

After rhinoplasty, you’ll have a splint on your nose to support its new shape and protect it from harm. Your surgeon may also place packing inside your nose to absorb any excess blood or fluid, which will be removed after a few days. Pain and swelling are common after rhinoplasty, and you will be given everything you need to manage your discomfort. Ice packs can further help reduce swelling and discomfort.

You’ll want to avoid blowing your nose for at least a week after surgery to prevent bleeding, and strenuous activity or exercise will need to be avoided for several weeks to allow the nose to heal properly. Your recovery timeline will vary according to the extent of your surgery and your individual healing process. In general, patients can expect to return to work and normal activities within one to two weeks after surgery.

Your full recovery may take several months, during which time your nose will continue to heal, and the swelling will gradually subside. The final results of the surgery may not be fully visible for up to a year after the procedure. Before the day of your surgery, you’ll be provided with a detailed timeline that explains your recovery process, along with thorough aftercare instructions that will help you stay comfortable as you rest and recover.