Rhinoplasty usually takes an hour or two, though complicated procedures may take longer. During surgery the skin of the nose is separated from its supporting framework of bone and cartilage, which is then sculpted to the desired shape. The nature of the sculpting will depend on your problem and your surgeon's preferred technique. Finally, the skin is redraped over the new framework.

Usually rhinoplasty is performed from within the nose, making their incision inside the nostrils. In this way, there are no external incisions visible on or around the nose. Occasionally an “open” procedure is required, especially in more complicated cases. In such cases a small incision is placed across the columella, the vertical strip of tissue separating the nostrils.

When performing rhinoplasty in Mississauga / Toronto, Dr. Lista will remove a hump with a rasp and then bring the nasal bones together to form a narrower bridge. Cartilage is trimmed to reshape the tip of the nose.

Incisions are made inside the nostrils or at the base of the nose, providing access to the cartilage and bone, which can then be sculpted into shape.

If your nostrils are too wide, your surgeon improves the angle between the nose and upper lip. Trimming the septum can remove small wedges of skin from their base, bringing them closer together.