Rhinoplasty in Chicago, IL

Rhinoplasty is a highly specialized form of cosmetic nose surgery that reshapes the nose to enhance facial balance, improve function, or both. Because the nose is central to facial harmony, even minor refinements can create meaningful changes.

At Elias Gikas, MD, FACS, patients benefit from decades of surgical experience, careful planning, and an approach that prioritizes natural-looking results and long-term satisfaction. Rhinoplasty in our practice is performed with a strong focus on safety, proportion, and realistic outcomes.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as a nose job or nose reshaping surgery, is a procedure designed to alter the size, shape, or structure of the nose. It can address both cosmetic concerns and functional breathing issues.

Cosmetic nose surgery can refine the nasal bridge, tip, nostrils, or the overall proportion of the nose. In contrast, functional nasal surgery can correct internal structural problems, such as a deviated septum, that interfere with breathing.

Top Benefits of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can offer both aesthetic changes and functional improvements. Patients often pursue this procedure to enhance facial balance or correct long-standing concerns.

Key benefits include:

  • Improved facial symmetry and proportion
  • Refinement of the nasal bridge or tip
  • Correction of nasal asymmetry or crookedness
  • Enhanced breathing through structural repair
  • Long-lasting, natural-looking results

These benefits work together to support confidence and overall quality of life following recovery.

Who Is an Ideal Candidate for Nose Surgery?

Ideal candidates for rhinoplasty are individuals who are dissatisfied with the appearance of their nose, experience breathing difficulty due to structural issues, or both. Candidates should be in good general health, have realistic expectations, and understand the healing process.

A rhinoplasty consultation can help determine whether cosmetic nose surgery, functional nasal surgery, or a combination approach is most appropriate.

Book an appointment with our office today.

Your Rhinoplasty Consultation in Chicago

During your visit, Dr. Gikas carefully listens to your concerns, evaluates your nasal anatomy, and reviews your overall facial proportions to ensure a personalized approach. Medical history, health status, and surgical goals are also thoroughly discussed. Photographs and examples of similar cases may be examined to help patients understand realistic outcomes and surgical options.

How the Rhinoplasty Procedure Works

Rhinoplasty is tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy, goals, and functional needs. Surgery is performed in a hospital or accredited surgical center with board-certified anesthesiologists to maintain the highest safety standards.

Anesthesia Options

Depending on the complexity of the rhinoplasty procedure and patient preference, either general anesthesia or intravenous sedation with local anesthesia may be used. An experienced anesthesiology team monitors the patient throughout surgery and recovery.

Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

Dr. Gikas performs both open and closed rhinoplasty techniques. Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the columella and is often used for more complex cases or revision rhinoplasty. Closed rhinoplasty limits incisions to the inside of the nose and may be appropriate when more modest changes are needed.

Surgical Techniques and Customization

During surgery, internal nasal structures, including cartilage, bone, and the septum, may be reshaped or reinforced. Cartilage grafts may be used to provide support and definition, particularly in the nasal tip or bridge. Careful structural work allows the skin to drape smoothly over the new framework, supporting balanced and stable results over time.

Specialized and Ethnic Rhinoplasty Approaches

Ethnic rhinoplasty respects cultural identity while improving nasal balance and function. Dr. Gikas tailors each approach to suit the individual’s skin thickness, cartilage strength, and aesthetic goals.

Ethnic Rhinoplasty

Ethnic rhinoplasty focuses on preserving defining features while improving proportion and harmony. Treatment plans are tailored to each patient’s unique facial structure and preferences.

African American Rhinoplasty

African American rhinoplasty often addresses a wider bridge, bulbous tip, flared nostrils, or thicker skin. Structural grafting and precise suturing techniques are used to enhance definition while maintaining natural ethnic characteristics.

Middle Eastern Rhinoplasty

Middle Eastern rhinoplasty commonly involves reducing a dorsal hump, refining a drooping tip, or correcting asymmetry. These cases require careful planning and extended healing, with attention to both appearance and breathing function.

Asian Rhinoplasty

Asian rhinoplasty frequently focuses on bridge augmentation and improved tip projection. Cartilage grafts and structural support help achieve a balanced result that complements the surrounding facial features.

What to Expect After Rhinoplasty

After rhinoplasty surgery, swelling, bruising, and mild discomfort are common during the first week. A splint is typically worn for about one week, and nasal packing, if used, is removed earlier. Most patients return to work or school within one week; however, residual swelling may take several months to resolve fully.

When Will I See Rhinoplasty Results?

Initial improvements are visible soon after the splint is removed. As swelling gradually subsides, the nasal shape becomes more refined. Final rhinoplasty results continue to develop over several months, with subtle changes possible for up to one year following surgery.

How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost in Chicago, IL?

The cost of rhinoplasty in Chicago varies based on surgical complexity, whether functional repair is included, and individual patient needs. A personalized quote is provided after consultation. Financing options are also available to help make nose surgery more accessible.

Before and After Rhinoplasty Results

Visit our before-and-after rhinoplasty gallery to see real patient results from our practice. These images demonstrate how carefully planned rhinoplasty can enhance facial balance, symmetry, and overall harmony.

Breast Augmentation Before and After Results
Breast Augmentation Before and After Results


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Why Choose Our Rhinoplasty Practice in Chicago

Our practice is led by Dr. Elias Gikas, a board-certified plastic and reconstructive surgeon with more than three decades of experience in rhinoplasty and facial surgery. We are committed to providing care that is grounded in surgical expertise, sound judgment, and honest communication.

Every rhinoplasty is approached with careful evaluation, detailed planning, and a focus on both form and function. Procedures are performed in hospital or accredited surgical facilities with board-certified anesthesiologists, reflecting our emphasis on patient safety and consistency of care. Our reputation has been built through long-term patient trust, physician referrals, and outcomes that prioritize balance, breathing, and natural-looking results.

Schedule Your Rhinoplasty Consultation

If you are considering rhinoplasty or nose surgery in Chicago, schedule a consultation with our team today. This visit provides an opportunity to discuss your goals openly, ask questions, and explore options that may be right for you.

Call (773) 878-6525 or book online to get started.