Considering Rhinoplasty in Seattle?
Whether you’re seeking cosmetic refinement or breathing relief, rhinoplasty in Seattle has become one of the most trusted solutions for reshaping your profile and restoring confidence. At The Larrabee Center for Plastic Surgery, board-certified facial plastic surgeons Dr. Wayne Larrabee and Dr. Susan Kurian bring decades of expertise and innovation to one of the most complex procedures in facial plastic surgery.
But is it worth it? Let’s walk through everything from benefits and surgical expectations to recovery and cost—so you can decide if a nose job in Seattle is right for you.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure that reshapes or resizes the nose. At its core, the surgery enhances both aesthetics and function. It can smooth a prominent bump, narrow a wide nasal tip, straighten the bridge, or reduce asymmetry. At The Larrabee Center, rhinoplasty is both an art and a science—merging surgical precision with a deep understanding of facial harmony.
Cosmetic and Functional Goals
While many patients opt for rhinoplasty for aesthetic reasons, others seek it for medical relief, especially to correct breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum or structural issues. At The Larrabee Center, patients often undergo functional rhinoplasty alongside cosmetic enhancements, achieving both improved appearance and improved breathing.
Why Choose Rhinoplasty in Seattle?
Seattle is home to a number of plastic surgeons, but few possess the global recognition and specialized skill of Dr. Wayne Larrabee, a pioneer in facial plastic surgery. As the founder of The Larrabee Center, Dr. Larrabee has trained countless surgeons worldwide and authored foundational textbooks used across the industry.
Patients from around the country choose The Larrabee Center for:
- Double board-certified facial plastic surgeon
- Advanced, individualized techniques
- A strong focus on natural-looking results
- Access to both cosmetic and reconstructive rhinoplasty options
- A state-of-the-art surgical facility in Seattle’s First Hill neighborhood
If you’re wondering whether nose reshaping surgery in Seattle is worth the investment, it’s important to consider the caliber of your surgeon. Dr. Larrabee’s reputation for delivering sophisticated, harmonious results speaks for itself.
What to Expect Before Surgery
Every rhinoplasty at The Larrabee Center begins with a comprehensive consultation. This is your chance to communicate your aesthetic goals or functional concerns directly with Dr. Larrabee or Dr. Kurian. Through advanced digital imaging, you’ll get a preview of potential results and understand how the procedure will be tailored to your anatomy.
During your pre-op phase, your surgeon will:
- Conduct a full facial analysis
- Review your medical history
- Discuss your expectations
- Create a custom surgical plan
If you’re traveling to Seattle for your surgery, The Larrabee Center provides concierge-level support to make your stay and recovery seamless.
The Rhinoplasty Procedure Explained
Surgical Approach
At The Larrabee Center, rhinoplasty is performed under general anesthesia in a fully accredited, private surgical suite. Most surgeries take between 2–3 hours, though complex revisions or combined functional/cosmetic cases may take longer.
There are typically two surgical approaches:
- Closed Rhinoplasty: Incisions are made inside the nostrils, leaving no external scars.
- Open Rhinoplasty: A small incision is made across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) for better access to the nasal structure. This is often preferred for more complex reshaping procedures.
The choice of approach depends on the individual case. Both techniques allow the surgeon to remove or reshape cartilage and bone to achieve the desired contour.
Reconstructive Options
For patients with trauma, congenital defects, or previous botched surgeries, Dr. Larrabee offers advanced reconstructive rhinoplasty. In some cases, cartilage grafts are taken from the septum, ear, or rib to rebuild the nasal framework and improve function.
Recovery: What You Need to Know
One of the most common questions we hear is: What’s the recovery like after rhinoplasty in Seattle?
Immediately After Surgery
- You’ll wear a nasal splint for about one week to support the new shape.
- Bruising and swelling around the eyes and nose are common and peak within 72 hours.
- Most patients describe discomfort as mild to moderate and manageable with prescribed medications.
One Week Post-Surgery
- Stitches and splints are removed.
- You’ll start seeing the refined shape of your nose, though swelling will persist.
1–3 Months Post-Op
- Swelling continues to subside, especially around the nasal bridge.
- You can resume moderate activities after 2–3 weeks but avoid contact sports for several months.
Final Results
While 70–80% of the swelling resolves in the first few months, final results may take up to a year to fully emerge—especially for tip reshaping. Patience is essential, but most patients find the wait well worth it.
Is Rhinoplasty Worth It?
Here’s where we weigh the pros and cons.
The Benefits
- Improved facial balance and symmetry
- Enhanced self-confidence
- Better breathing and reduced nasal obstruction
- Correction of birth defects or traumatic injury
- Permanent results—the new shape of your nose lasts a lifetime
Considerations
- It is a surgical commitment with downtime and financial investment.
- Swelling and healing take time—patience is required.
- Choosing the right surgeon is absolutely critical to success.
If you’re working with a trusted, experienced Seattle rhinoplasty surgeon like Dr. Larrabee, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The transformation—both physically and emotionally—can be life-changing.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost in Seattle?
Rhinoplasty costs in Seattle can vary depending on the surgeon’s experience, surgical complexity, and whether your procedure is cosmetic or functional.
At The Larrabee Center, cosmetic rhinoplasty typically ranges from $10,000 to $15,000. This estimate includes:
- Surgeon’s fee
- Anesthesia
- Operating facility charges
- Pre- and post-operative appointments
Insurance may cover functional procedures such as septoplasty if related to breathing impairments. The Larrabee Center team will guide you through insurance inquiries if applicable.
Remember, rhinoplasty is a long-term investment in your health, appearance, and self-esteem. Choosing quality over cost saves you from potential revision surgery down the road.
Meet Your Seattle Rhinoplasty Specialists
Dr. Wayne Larrabee
As one of the most respected names in facial plastic surgery, Dr. Larrabee is known globally for his pioneering work in rhinoplasty, facelift techniques, and facial anatomy education. With more than 250 published works and decades of experience, his surgical outcomes reflect both artistry and technical excellence.
Dr. Susan Kurian
Dr. Kurian specializes in complex rhinoplasty, including ethnic, preservation, and revision cases. Her blend of technical proficiency and artistic eye helps patients achieve beautifully natural results, regardless of their nasal structure or cultural background.
Final Thoughts: Is Rhinoplasty in Seattle Right for You?
If you’ve ever felt self-conscious about your nose or struggled with breathing issues, rhinoplasty in Seattle offers a reliable, transformative solution. With the right surgeon—especially one as accomplished as Dr. Larrabee—you’ll be in the best hands for one of the most rewarding facial procedures available.
Schedule a consultation with The Larrabee Center today to explore your options and start your journey toward refined beauty and renewed confidence.
