Rhinoplasty in San Jose & Palo Alto

Name: Rhinoplasty
Brand: Cheng Plastic Surgery
Rating: 4.9 (254 reviews)

Refine, Balance, and Breathe Freely

Enhance your facial harmony and confidence with expert rhinoplasty in San Jose, performed by double board-certified facial plastic surgeons, Drs. Jacqueline and Elbert Cheng. Whether you want subtle refinement or improved breathing, we’ll help you achieve results that look beautifully natural.

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What is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty—often called a “nose job”—reshapes the nose to improve facial harmony while improving or maintaining nasal function. Rhinoplasty is considered one of the most difficult operations in facial plastic surgery because every nose is different. The anatomy greatly varies from patient to patient. In addition, aesthetic desires vary across cultures, ethnicities and individuals. A rhinoplasty surgeon has to take all that into account. There is no cookie cutter nose that fits all. Because the nose is central to your features, even small refinements can have a dramatic impact on confidence and breathing comfort. Rhinoplasty is truly an art that requires an aesthetic eye and surgical precision and artistry.

Our rhinoplasty procedures in Palo Alto and San Jose can correct:

A hump or bump on the bridge
A flat nasal bridge
A bulbous or drooping nasal tip
A long or wide nose
A crooked or asymmetrical nose
Large or flared nostrils
Breathing issues such as deviated septum

Rhinoplasty Patient Journeys

“I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else for any procedure.”

I'm thrilled with my results

Dr. Jacqueline Cheng is an artist. I received a rhinoplasty and septoplasty in one procedure. My healing process was much shorter than anticipated due to Dr. Cheng's knowledge and ...

by C.V.

She is the best surgeon in the Bay Area

Dr. Jacqueline Cheng is a super kind person, and very professional. I had a rhinoplasty, I didn't have to break my bone. Before the surgery, she prepares you very well so that you ...

by Optimistic689714

I continue to get compliments on my nose

I came to see Dr. Jacqueline Cheng two years ago. I had previously had a rhinoplasty done by a different surgeon and I wasn't completely satisfied with the results. I went to sever...

by M.B.

I now have the nose I’d always wanted

Hello! My name is Vivienne and I received a rhinoplasty for more of a tip on my nose. I would seriously recommend Dr. Jacqueline Cheng for this procedure. I went with Dr. J because...

by V.R.

I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else

I have been a patient of Cheng Plastic Surgery for over a decade and I couldn’t imagine going anywhere else for any procedure, whether it be minor or surgical. I recently had a mod...

by Energetic208728

She made it really easy

She is amazing! I have so much trust in her. I had never gotten any plastic surgery done before and she made it really easy and stress free experience. You can tell she really care...

by T.S.

My colleagues, friends and family love the results

I looked for many surgeons for eyelids and rhinoplasty before I came to Dr. Jacqueline and Dr. Elbert and not too many doctors were knowledgeable. Dr. Jacqueline & Dr. Elbert are v...

by K.A.

I would recommend her to everyone

I went to Dr. J. Cheng about 18 months ago for a Rhinoplasty and she did a fantastic job. She answered all my questions (and there were a lot) and was so patient through all the he...

by L.M.

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What is the Difference Between Open & Closed Rhinoplasty?

There are two main rhinoplasty techniques – open and closed. Closed nasal surgery does not require an external incision but is a technique utilized for refining the nose. The surgeon does his or her work through the nostrils only.

The external or open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the tissue between the nostrils (the columella). The scar is small and hidden underneath the nose. This approach provides better visualization and is utilized if more extensive corrections are required such as revision rhinoplasty.

Your surgeon will determine which approach suits your goals and anatomy during the consultation.

Benefits of Rhinoplasty

Enhances balance and harmony among facial features
Reshapes and refines the nasal tip, bridge, and nostrils
Enhances confidence and self-image
Improves breathing and sleep quality
Produces natural, long-lasting results tailored to you

Who Is a Good Candidate?

Anyone who is dissatisfied with the shape or appearance of their nose, has difficulty breathing through their nose and is in good health is a likely candidate for our rhinoplasty in San Jose. However, other factors may impact your candidacy, and only an in-person consultation will ensure this procedure is right for you.

For those who desire a cosmetic rhinoplasty, we recommend that you wait until your nasal bones are fully grown. For girls, this is usually at around age 15, and for boys around age 18.

Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline

You need to plan for recovery from a rhinoplasty, so the process is smooth, rapid, and comfortable. The process unfolds as follows:

A few hours after your surgery, you can go home in the care of a friend or relative. You will not be able to drive right away.
For 2 weeks, bruising and swelling are common. It will take many months and even up to one year for your nasal tissues to mature and reveal their final shape. But it’s important to realize that within a short time (one to two weeks), the swelling will have decreased so that you can reappear confidently in public. You can take pain medication, and we recommend sleeping upright for a few weeks to months to minimize the swelling. Applying ice wil also help to decrease swelling.
Splints on the outside of the nose, and sometimes on the inside, will support the new structure for about a week during the healing process. Packing of the nostrils is not usually necessary, but some patients might need it for a few days.
Some minor bleeding from the nostrils is normal for the first week. It is important to avoid rubbing or blowing your nose for seven to ten days. You should be able to wear eyeglasses after a few days to a week, but Dr. Cheng will give you specific instructions depending on your specific surgery.
Most people take 10 days off from work (or school) after rhinoplasty. Light activities such as walking can be resumed the next day after the procedure, but contact sports must be avoided for up to six months if your bones have been repositioned.
We will remove your sutures in about a week. We will also see you for postoperative examinations to ensure you are healing well.

Average downtime: 7–10 days
Full recovery: 6–12 months

Recovery Overview:

Day of surgery: Go home under care of a friend or family member.
Week 1: Splints removed; swelling and bruising begin to subside.
Week 2: Return to work or school.
Month 1+: Resume light exercise; avoid contact sports for several months.
Months 3–12: Final definition refines as tissues settle.

Your comfort is our priority and pain is typically mild and manageable. We provide detailed aftercare instructions to ensure smooth healing.

How Much Does a Rhinoplasty Generally Cost?

The cost of rhinoplasty in Palo Alto and San Jose can vary dramatically depending on the condition of your nose and the extent of the corrections required. A personalized estimate is provided during your consultation.

Why Choose Cheng Plastic Surgery?

Out of all cosmetic surgeries available today, rhinoplasty is the most nuanced and difficult procedure to perform well. The importance of seeking out a true master of the art can’t be overstated.

Double board-certified in head and neck surgery and facial plastic and reconstructive surgery, Drs. Jacqueline and Elbert Cheng are two such masters. With a combined two decades of hands-on experience in the operating room, they are known for producing refined, natural-looking results that complement each individual’s features.

“Our goal: results so natural, no one knows, but everyone notices.”

Rhinoplasty FAQs

Will insurance cover rhinoplasty?

While rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure for the majority of patients, if you have a breathing problem, a portion of your surgery might be considered medically necessary. In that case, some insurance carriers may cover part of the cost of the procedure.

What are the potential risks?

As with any surgery, swelling, bruising, discomfort, numbness, infection, allergic reaction, itchiness and scarring may occur. Serious complications are rare under expert care.

Can I combine rhinoplasty with other procedures?

Yes — many patients combine nose surgery with chin augmentation, eyelid surgery, or a facelift for balanced facial rejuvenation.

Is rhinoplasty painful?

No. You’ll be comfortable throughout the procedure with local or general anesthesia. Post-surgical discomfort is mild and easily managed.

What type of anesthesia is used?

Our Palo Alto rhinoplasty procedure can be performed under local anesthesia if your surgery does not require repositioning bones. If the procedure involves breaking bones, then you will be given the option of general anesthesia.

Will rhinoplasty affect breathing?

Rhinoplasty can improve breathing by correcting structural issues like a deviated septum. However, it is important to discuss functional goals with your surgeon to ensure both cosmetic and breathing improvements.

Are rhinoplasty results permanent?

Yes, the results of rhinoplasty are permanent. However, the nose may undergo subtle changes over time due to aging or trauma.

Will I have visible scars after rhinoplasty?

Scarring is minimal and usually hidden inside the nose for closed procedures. Open rhinoplasty may leave a small, nearly invisible scar on the columella.

Ready to Begin Your Rhinoplasty Journey?

Discover how personalized rhinoplasty can help you look and feel your best. Contact our team today to set up your consultation.