Rhinoplasty in Westlake Village, CA

Name: Rhinoplasty
Brand: Michael R. Schwartz
Rating: 4.8 (131 reviews)

Rhinoplasty with double board-certified Dr. Phuong D. Nguyen refines the shape, size, and proportions of the nose while preserving or improving how you breathe.

Craniofacial Expertise Meets Aesthetic Artistry

Dr. Phuong D. Nguyen brings more than 22 years of experience in plastic and craniofacial surgery to the Schwartz Aesthetic Institute. Certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery and the American Board of Surgery, he completed his craniofacial surgery fellowship at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto, one of the most respected children's hospitals in the world.

His arrival allows the Institute to offer rhinoplasty and other specialized facial procedures alongside the breast, body, and facial surgery that Dr. Michael R. Schwartz and Dr. Jennifer Stark have provided for more than 25 years. Few surgeons understand the bone and cartilage framework of the face as thoroughly, and that structural insight guides every nose Dr. Nguyen reshapes.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty reshapes the bone, cartilage, and soft tissue of the nose to improve its appearance, its function, or both. The surgical procedure enhances facial harmony and nasal proportions and can correct breathing problems caused by structural defects.

Every nose is built on a framework of nasal bones at the top and flexible cartilage toward the tip. By carefully reshaping, repositioning, or supporting these structures, Dr. Nguyen can address concerns such as:

Nose size in relation to the rest of the face
Width of the bridge or the size and position of the nostrils
Humps or depressions along the bridge
A tip that is enlarged, bulbous, drooping, upturned, or hooked
Nasal asymmetry
Structural issues that limit airflow, such as a deviated septum

Each change is planned so the nose remains stable and natural in appearance for years to come.

Types of Rhinoplasty We Offer

Cosmetic Rhinoplasty

Cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on the appearance of the nose, including the bridge, tip, nostrils, and overall size
The aim is a refined result that suits your features and never looks overdone

Functional Rhinoplasty and Septorhinoplasty

Functional rhinoplasty improves breathing by correcting structural problems such as a deviated septum
When combined with cosmetic changes, the procedure is called a septorhinoplasty, allowing patients to address form and function in a single surgery

Male Rhinoplasty

Male rhinoplasty preserves the stronger bridge and straighter profile that suits masculine features
Men interested in facial refinement can learn more about related treatments on ourMen's Health page

Cleft Rhinoplasty

Cleft rhinoplasty restructures the nose to improve symmetry, form, and breathing in patients with a history of cleft lip and palate
Considered one of the most difficult rhinoplasties, Dr. Nguyen has had nearly two decades in working with cleft patients and previously led an ACPA-approved cleft team at a top 10 children’s hospital

Rhinoplasty Benefits

The benefits of rhinoplasty extend beyond appearance, since a well-planned nose should look balanced and breathe well. Dr. Nguyen tailors each procedure to address the concerns that matter most to the patient, which may include:

Reducing a visible hump or depression along the bridge
Refining a tip that appears wide, bulbous, drooping, or upturned
Narrowing wide nostrils or a broad nasal bridge
Improving asymmetry or a crooked nose, including changes after an injury
Bringing the nose into better proportion with the chin, cheeks, and forehead
Easing breathing difficulties related to a deviated septum or other structural issues

Many patients describe a renewed sense of confidence once their nose fits naturally with the rest of their face. The goal is facial balance and correct proportion rather than perfect symmetry, a philosophy that aligns with the natural results the Schwartz Aesthetic Institute is known for.

Are You a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?

You may be a candidate for rhinoplasty if you are bothered by the shape, size, or proportions of your nose, or if structural issues make breathing difficult.

Following guidance from the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, ideal candidates generally:

Have reached the end of facial growth
Are in good physical health
Do not smoke, or are willing to stop before and after surgery
Hold realistic goals and are pursuing surgery for themselves

During your consultation, Dr. Nguyen evaluates your nasal anatomy, skin thickness, airway, and overall facial balance. That assessment helps determine whether rhinoplasty alone, rhinoplasty combined with another procedure, or a nonsurgical option is the best fit for your goals.

Why Choose Dr. Nguyen for Rhinoplasty in Westlake Village?

Choosing Dr. Nguyen for rhinoplasty in Westlake Village means trusting a surgeon whose training and teaching career focus on facial structure. His credentials include:

Training at leading institutions: General surgery at New York University, plastic surgery residency at UCLA, and a craniofacial fellowship at The Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto
Academic leadership: Professor of Surgery and Chief of Pediatric Plastic Surgery at the University of Colorado School of Medicine, with prior faculty roles at the University of Pennsylvania and UTHealth Houston
Published nasal surgery expertise: Coauthor of the "Secondary Cleft Rhinoplasty" chapter in the textbook Secondary Rhinoplasty, plus recent research on three-dimensional nasal outcomes in the Journal of Craniofacial Surgery
A respected educator: Invited lectures on rhinoplasty and facial reconstruction in the United States, Greece, Brazil, and beyond, along with multiple teaching excellence awards
Recognized patient care: Castle Connolly Top Doctor, 5280 Magazine Top Doctor, and Houstonia Magazine Top Doctor honors

Dr. Nguyen has authored nearly 140 peer-reviewed publications and textbook chapters. His experience correcting the complex nasal anatomy associated with cleft conditions informs the precision he brings to cosmetic and revision rhinoplasty, where small structural changes create meaningful aesthetic results.

All procedures take place at the Institute's AAAASF-accredited Westlake Cosmetic Surgery Center, staffed by board-certified anesthesiologists and featuring a private surgical entrance.

What to Expect Before, During, and After

Rhinoplasty at the Schwartz Aesthetic Institute follows a clear path from your first conversation with Dr. Nguyen through your final result. Here is what each stage involves.

Consultation

Your first visit starts with a conversation about what you would like to change and why. Dr. Nguyen then examines the outside and inside of your nose, evaluates your breathing, and studies how the nose balances with your chin, lips, and cheekbones.

Rhinoplasty cost depends on the complexity of the surgery and whether breathing concerns are addressed.

Dr. Nguyen provides a personalized quote for a nose job in Westlake Village once he has designed your surgical plan. Financing options are also available to make treatment more manageable.

Procedure

Rhinoplasty is typically performed under general anesthesia in our accredited surgical center. Dr. Nguyen uses one of two approaches, chosen for your anatomy and goals:

Closed rhinoplasty: All incisions are hidden inside the nostrils, leaving no external scar.
Open rhinoplasty: A small incision across the columella, the strip of skin between the nostrils, offers greater visibility for detailed tip work and complex reshaping.

Through these incisions, Dr. Nguyen reduces, refines, or supports the underlying bone and cartilage. When needed, he also straightens the septum to improve airflow. A splint and light dressing protect the new shape as healing begins.

Recovery and Results

Rhinoplasty recovery happens in stages, with the most noticeable changes in the first few weeks. A typical timeline looks like this:

Week 1: Swelling and tenderness peak, and the splint and dressing remain in place until removal at about one week.
Weeks 2 to 3: Bruising around the eyes and cheeks fades, and most patients return to work and light activity.
Month 1: Initial results become visible as early swelling resolves.
Up to 1 year: Residual swelling, especially at the tip, continues to subside as the final contour emerges.

Dr. Nguyen sees you for follow-up visits throughout healing and provides detailed aftercare instructions tailored to your procedure.

Alternatives and Complementary Procedures to Rhinoplasty

Surgical rhinoplasty is not the only way to improve facial balance. Depending on your goals, Dr. Nguyen may recommend one of these options instead of, or alongside, nose surgery:

Injectable Rhinoplasty: Dermal fillers can temporarily smooth a small bump or lift the tip with no surgical downtime. This option cannot reduce the size of the nose or correct breathing.
Chin Augmentation: A weak chin can make the nose appear larger. Enhancing chin projection, either alone or in combination with rhinoplasty, often results in a more balanced profile. This enhancement can be achieved by repositioning the chin bones through a procedure called osseous genioplasty, or by using an implant for augmentation.
Facial bone contouring: Reshaping the facial skeleton can complement nasal refinement for patients seeking broader structural changes.

Your consultation is the best time to compare these approaches and decide which combination fits your vision.

Rhinoplasty FAQs

What Are the Risks of Rhinoplasty?

Is Rhinoplasty Painful?

Does Insurance Cover Rhinoplasty?

How Long Do Rhinoplasty Results Last?

Will Rhinoplasty Leave a Visible Scar?

What Are the Risks of Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty risks, as outlined by the ASPS, include anesthesia risks, infection, changes in skin sensation, breathing difficulty, poor healing, and the possibility of revision surgery. Choosing a double board-certified surgeon and an accredited facility helps reduce these risks.

Is Rhinoplasty Painful?

Rhinoplasty is generally associated with pressure and congestion more than sharp pain. Discomfort is usually greatest during the first week and is managed with prescribed medication and cold compresses.

Does Insurance Cover Rhinoplasty?

Insurance does not cover cosmetic rhinoplasty. When surgery corrects an obstructed airway, the functional portion may qualify for coverage with documentation and prior authorization from your insurer.

How Long Do Rhinoplasty Results Last?

Rhinoplasty results are considered permanent once healing is complete. The nose continues to age naturally with the rest of the face, but the structural changes Dr. Nguyen makes remain.

Will Rhinoplasty Leave a Visible Scar?

Closed rhinoplasty leaves no external scar. An open approach creates a small incision across the columella that typically fades to a fine, barely noticeable line.

Schedule Your Rhinoplasty Consultation With Dr. Nguyen Today

Dr. Nguyen and the team at the Schwartz Aesthetic Institute are excited to learn about your goals and design a rhinoplasty plan that fits your face, your breathing, and your lifestyle. Patients visit our Westlake Village office from Thousand Oaks, Calabasas, and across Southern California. To get started, call us or contact our team online to schedule your private consultation.

Disclaimer: This information is provided for educational purposes only and does not replace a consultation with a board-certified plastic surgeon. Outcomes, risks, and suitability vary from patient to patient.

Sources

American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Rhinoplasty.
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. Who Is a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What Are the Risks of Rhinoplasty?
American Society of Plastic Surgeons. What to Expect During Your Rhinoplasty Recovery.
Le T, Colsman I, Palmer SK, et al., Nguyen PD. Impact of Nasal Stents on Three-Dimensional Morphologic Outcomes Following Primary Cleft Rhinoplasty in Unilateral Cleft Lip. Journal of Craniofacial Surgery. 2026.

Book YourConsultation Today

Dr. Schwartz has earned a reputation for excellence by creating results that consistently exceed his patients expectations. He is excited to learn about your cosmetic goals and work with you to create a custom treatment plan that sees you enjoying your ideal outcome. To get started, reach out to us by phone, or click on the link below to speak with a helpful member of our team and set up your initial consultation today.