Sacramento, CA

Rhinoplasty

Introduction to Rhinoplasty

The shape and structure of the nose have a profound effect on overall facial harmony. For many people, small changes in this central feature can lead to a more balanced and confident appearance, whether that means softening a pronounced chin, refining the tip, or adjusting asymmetry. Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a “nose job,” is a personalized procedure that requires a detailed understanding of both anatomy and aesthetics. At her Sacramento-area practice, Dr. Lauren Daly approaches rhinoplasty with careful planning and a focus on achieving natural-looking results that complement each patient’s overall features.

What is a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes or resizes the nose for cosmetic, functional, or both purposes. Some patients desire a more refined nasal profile, while others aim to correct structural issues that affect their breathing. There are two main surgical approaches: open rhinoplasty, which involves a small incision at the base of the nose, and closed rhinoplasty, where all incisions are made inside the nostrils. The right technique depends on your anatomy and the complexity of the desired changes. While rhinoplasty is highly customizable, it’s also one of the most intricate facial procedures, requiring precision and a strong sense of proportion.

Close-up of Dr. Daly, a makeup artist with dark hair, applying makeup near the bridge of a light blonde woman’s nose using a cotton swab or small applicator. The woman’s eyes are open with a neutral expression and light pinkish-nude lips. Soft lighting highlights her smooth skin, while the blurred background keeps focus on her face and Dr. Daly’s hands. - Rhinoplasty in Folsom, CA

    Open Rhinoplasty

  • Open rhinoplasty utilizes a small incision across the columella (the area between the two nostrils) to provide full visibility of the nasal structures underneath. This approach provides greater surgical access, which can be particularly beneficial for detailed reshaping or correcting asymmetries. While the incision is external, it typically heals with a barely visible scar hidden under the nose between the nostrils.

    Closed Rhinoplasty

  • Closed rhinoplasty is performed entirely through incisions hidden inside the nostrils. This approach can be ideal for patients seeking subtle changes without major structural work. Since there’s no external scar and typically less swelling, recovery is often a bit shorter than with the open technique. However, not all nasal concerns can be addressed this way.

Who Are the Best Candidates For a Rhinoplasty?

Candidates for rhinoplasty in Sacramento should be in good overall health, refrain from smoking, and have realistic expectations about what the surgery can achieve. Because the nose plays such a central role in facial aesthetics, ideal candidates typically have conce s about nasal shape, size, or function that they’ve thought about for a long time, rather than acting on impulse. It’s also important that facial growth is complete, which typically occurs by the time patients are in their mid-to-late teens. Rhinoplasty is most successful when the patient is motivated by their own desire for change, not exte al pressures.

What Are the Benefits of a Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty can have both aesthetic and functional benefits. Cosmetically, it may improve nasal symmetry, reduce a dorsal hump, refine a bulbous or drooping tip, narrow wide nostrils, or adjust the angle between the nose and upper lip. Functionally, the procedure can also help improve airflow in patients with a deviated septum or other inte al structural issues. More broadly, many patients report an increase in self-confidence after surgery, not because their face has been radically altered, but because their features feel more harmonious and aligned with how they want to present themselves.

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What’s the First Step?

Your first step is a personalized consultation with Dr. Daly at her Folsom practice, during which she’ll ask about your goals, examine your nasal structure, and discuss potential surgical options based on your anatomy. Vectra 3D imaging technology is also used to digitally “morph” your nose, allowing you and Dr. Daly to be on the same page about your desired changes. Dr. Daly emphasizes clear and open communication so that patients feel informed and supported throughout the process. If rhinoplasty feels the right fit, you’ll receive a customized surgical plan, including timelines, pre-op instructions, and guidance for recovery.

What to Expect on the Day of Rhinoplasty Surgery

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia in our Folsom surgical center and usually takes between 2 and 4 hours. Once you arrive at the surgery center, you’ll be checked in, meet with Dr. Daly for a final review of your surgical plan, and then brought into the operating room. After surgery, you’ll spend some time in recovery before going home with detailed post-operative instructions. You can expect to wear a nasal splint for about a week to help maintain the new shape. While some swelling and bruising are normal, discomfort is usually manageable with prescribed medication. Most patients are up and walking the same day, but rest is essential during the first few days post-op.

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Recuperation & Healing

Rhinoplasty Recovery

Recovery from rhinoplasty is a gradual process, with most patients retu ing to non-strenuous work or school within 7 to 10 days. The initial swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose typically peak within the first 2–3 days and improve steadily thereafter. A nasal splint is wo during the first week to support healing, and it’s important to avoid blowing your nose or wearing glasses that rest on the bridge until cleared by Dr. Daly. While subtle swelling can take up to a year to fully resolve, especially in the nasal tip, most patients begin to see visible improvements within a few weeks.

How Much Does a Rhinoplasty Cost in Sacramento, CA?

The cost of a rhinoplasty in Sacramento, Califo ia, varies depending on the procedure’s complexity. Cosmetic rhinoplasty costs approximately $12,500, although exact pricing is determined after your consultation with Dr. Daly and depends on the complexity of your case. After your consultation, you will be provided with a quote that includes the surgeon’s fees, facility costs, anesthesia, and follow-up care so that there are no surprises. We value transparency in our pricing.

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Our Ethos

Why Choose Dr. Daly?

When you trust someone to change your facial harmony, you deserve a surgeon who prioritizes technical skill, artistry, compassion, and true listening. Dr. Lauren Daly, a board-certified plastic surgeon in the Sacramento area, brings a fresh, modern perspective to rhinoplasty by customizing every procedure to the patient’s unique anatomy, goals, and lifestyle. Known for her meticulous eye for balance and proportion, Dr. Daly’s approach avoids the “overdone” look and instead focuses on creating natural-looking enhancements that balance your facial structure.

Rhinoplasty FAQ’S

Get Started Today

Schedule Your Consultation

If you’ve been considering rhinoplasty and want professional, thoughtful guidance, a consultation with Dr. Daly is the best place to start. Use the contact form or call the Folsom office to schedule your one-on-one visit.