Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) in Bellevue
Precision Results from a Craniofacial-Trained Surgeon
Rhinoplasty at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is designed to refine your profile with natural-looking results that are uniquely yours. Whether you are seeking cosmetic refinement — a smoother bridge, a more balanced tip, or improved facial symmetry — or functional correction such as a deviated septum or breathing difficulty, Dr. Kristopher Day brings a level of precision that only a craniofacial fellowship-trained surgeon can offer. Double board-certified and Ivy League trained, Dr. Day combines advanced 3D surgical planning with a patient-centered approach to rhinoplasty that reflects your individual goals, not a template.
Double Board-Certified (ABPS + ABS)
Ivy League Trained
Highly Rated Bellevue Plastic Surgeon
Proudly Serving Bellevue, Seattle, Kirkland, Redmond, Mercer Island, Issaquah, Renton
What Is Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) ?
Rhinoplasty — commonly called a nose job — is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to improve its appearance, function, or both. The nose is the centerpiece of facial balance; even subtle refinements can dramatically improve the harmony between your features. Because the nose is a complex three-dimensional structure of bone, cartilage, and soft tissue, rhinoplasty demands a surgeon with deep anatomical expertise and a precise artistic eye.
Rhinoplasty can address a wide range of aesthetic and functional concerns, including:
- A prominent dorsal hump (bump on the bridge)
- A wide, bulbous, or drooping nasal tip
- Nasal asymmetry or crookedness
- Overly large, wide, or narrow nostrils
- Imbalance in proportion to other facial features
- A deviated septum causing chronic nasal obstruction or breathing difficulty
- Post-traumatic deformity following facial injury
Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty
Dr. Day tailors the surgical approach to each patient’s anatomy and goals. Two techniques are available:
Open Rhinoplasty | Closed Rhinoplasty |
|---|---|
Small incision across the columella (tissue between nostrils) provides full visibility of all nasal structures. Preferred for complex reshaping, tip refinement, and cases requiring cartilage grafting. | All incisions placed inside the nostrils — no external scarring. Preferred for more limited refinements. Reduced swelling and faster initial recovery. |
In addition to cosmetic rhinoplasty, Dr. Day offers functional rhinoplasty — a medically indicated procedure to correct breathing obstruction. This may include septoplasty (straightening a deviated septum) and turbinate reduction. Some functional rhinoplasty cases may qualify for partial insurance coverage. See the Cost & Financing section for details.
Benefits Of a Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is consistently ranked among the most transformative procedures in plastic surgery — not because of the magnitude of change, but because of the outsized impact subtle refinements can have on facial harmony, confidence, and quality of life.
Aesthetic Benefits | Functional Benefits |
|---|---|
Refined nasal profile — smooth bridge, balanced tip | Improved breathing and airflow |
Improved facial symmetry and proportionality | Relief from chronic sinus pressure or congestion |
Correction of a deviated or crooked nose | Reduced snoring related to nasal obstruction |
Natural-looking results that complement your features | Improved sleep quality from clearer nasal passages |
Long-lasting, permanent structural changes | Possible partial insurance coverage for functional component |
Renewed confidence in your appearance | Faster recovery from rhinitis and nasal infections |
Dr. Day’s craniofacial fellowship training means he approaches rhinoplasty with an understanding of facial structure that goes beyond most plastic surgery training. The nose does not exist in isolation — it must be harmonized with the brow, chin, cheeks, and overall facial frame. The result is a nose that looks like yours — just better.
"Dr. Day did a great job with my rhinoplasty. Surgery went well, the results are great, and recovery was very manageable. I look forward to working with him again!"
— Lady G., Rhinoplasty Patient • Google Review
Am I a Good Candidate for a Rhinoplasty ?
The best rhinoplasty candidates are patients who are in good health, have realistic goals, and understand that results are permanent. Dr. Day conducts a thorough consultation — including in-person evaluation and 3D imaging when appropriate — to determine whether rhinoplasty is the right approach for your goals.
- You May Be Ready If...
- Facial growth is complete (typically age 15–16 for females, 17–18 for males)
- You are in good general health with no uncontrolled conditions
- You are a non-smoker or willing to quit 6+ weeks before and after surgery
- You have specific, realistic aesthetic or functional goals
- You want to correct breathing difficulty or a deviated septum
- You have been considering rhinoplasty for a year or more — not an impulse decision
- You May Want to Wait If...
- Facial growth is not yet complete (patients under 15–16)
- You have active respiratory infections or untreated sinus disease
- You smoke and are unable or unwilling to stop for the required period
- Your goals are based on matching someone else's appearance rather than improving your own
- You have recently undergone rhinoplasty (revision typically requires 12+ months post-op)
- Underlying body dysmorphic disorder symptoms present — a mental health consultation is recommended first
Not Sure If You're a Candidate?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Day to discuss your goals and options.
Your Rhinoplasty Journey
Understanding the process from consultation through final results helps patients plan effectively and feel confident going into surgery. Here is what your rhinoplasty experience at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery typically looks like:
Consultation
WHAT HAPPENS
In-person evaluation of nasal anatomy, facial proportions, and breathing function. 3D imaging used when appropriate to preview potential outcomes. Dr. Day discusses open vs. closed approach, realistic expectations, and all aspects of the procedure.
Pre-Op Preparation (2–4 weeks prior)
What to Expect
Lab work, medical clearance if needed. Discontinue blood thinners, aspirin, NSAIDs, and herbal supplements. Stop smoking at least 6 weeks before surgery. Confirm arrangements for a responsible adult to drive you home and stay with you the first night.
Surgery Day (3–4 hours)
What to Expect
Performed under general anesthesia at Carillon Point Surgery Center, Swedish Medical Center, or Virginia Mason Franciscan Health. Dr. Day carefully reshapes the bone, cartilage, and soft tissue structures to achieve your planned result. A nasal splint is placed at the end of surgery.
Week 2 — Splint Removal
What to Expect
Splint is removed at your follow-up appointment. Most bruising has resolved. You will look presentable to others, though swelling remains. In-office and social activity resumes comfortably. Begin gradual return to exertional activity — start at 50% of your pre-operative baseline and increase by approximately 5% per day.
Months 1–3 — Early Settling
What to Expect
Approximately 70–80% of swelling resolves. The nose begins to take on its new shape. Tip refining continues as swelling in this area resolves more slowly.
Months 6–12 — Continued Refinement
What to Expect
Subtle swelling in the tip and skin continues to improve. Most patients see their near-final result by 6 months.
12–18 Months — Final Result
What to Expect
Final shape is fully realized as residual tip swelling completely resolves. This is when before-and-after photos are most meaningful.
"Dr. Day performed two surgeries for me. Surgery can be scary, but both times he made sure to explain the procedure, the expected recovery, answer all questions, and put my mind at ease. My wife has seen my successes with Dr. Day, and is excited to become his patient as well."
— Garrett S., Surgical Patient • Google Review
Why a Craniofacial-Trained Surgeon Changes Everything
Most plastic surgeons learn rhinoplasty during residency — a few months among dozens of other procedures. Dr. Day completed a dedicated craniofacial fellowship at the University of Texas. Craniofacial surgery is the subspecialty devoted entirely to the bones, cartilage, and soft tissues of the face — the same structures rhinoplasty depends on.
What does craniofacial training mean for your rhinoplasty outcome?
What It Means | Why It Matters for Rhinoplasty |
|---|---|
Bone-level anatomy mastery | Precise osteotomies (controlled bone cuts) to straighten and narrow the bridge with exceptional accuracy and minimal trauma. |
Cartilage grafting expertise | Rebuilding the nasal framework with cartilage grafts to create a defined, natural tip and correct structural collapse. |
3D spatial reasoning | Craniofacial training is inherently three-dimensional — the ability to visualize and plan the nose as a structure that works in space, not just looks flat in photos. |
Facial harmony as a discipline | Fellowship-level understanding that the nose must balance with brow, midface, chin, and jawline — not simply be made smaller. |
Complex case capability | Post-traumatic deformities, revision rhinoplasty, and ethnically sensitive rhinoplasty all benefit from the broader anatomical foundation craniofacial training provides. |
Dr. Day is one of the only fellowship-trained craniofacial surgeons performing rhinoplasty in the Bellevue market. This is not a marketing point — it is a verifiable credential with measurable implications for the precision and predictability of your outcome.
What Results Can I Expect from a Rhinoplasty ?
Rhinoplasty results are long-lasting. Once swelling fully resolves — typically 12 to 18 months post-surgery — the shape of your nose reflects the surgical changes made. The goal at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is always a result that looks natural: a nose that enhances your face, not one that announces itself.
Because the nose is the visual anchor of the face, even subtle changes — a smoother bridge, a more defined tip, improved symmetry — create a meaningful shift in facial balance. Many patients describe their result not as looking ‘done’ but as looking like a better version of themselves.
What rhinoplasty consistently delivers for qualified patients:
- Natural, proportionate results that complement your existing features
- Elimination of the dorsal hump or bridge bump that has long been a source of self-consciousness
- A refined, defined tip that frames the midface without appearing pinched or operated
- Symmetry improvements that are visible but not dramatically obvious
- Functional improvements — patients who struggled to breathe through their nose often describe life-changing relief
"I don’t even really have the words to describe what Dr. Day has done for me. Transformed me into the person I want to be is really the best description. It was like he took the idea out of my head and just made it happen. He was professional, the service was quick, but thorough with great customer service. You feel like a member of the family, not his portfolio. Dr. Day is very interested in how the results happen, how you handle your procedure and especially your recovery."
— AJ B., Surgical Patient • Google Review
Rhinoplasty Cost in Bellevue
Rhinoplasty pricing varies depending on the scope of the procedure, the surgical approach, the complexity of your anatomy, and the facility and anesthesia fees. A cosmetic rhinoplasty is a private-pay procedure, while a functional rhinoplasty — performed to correct breathing obstruction from a deviated septum or other structural issue — may qualify for partial insurance coverage.
Functional vs. Cosmetic Rhinoplasty — A Note on Insurance
If breathing difficulty is a primary concern, it is worth discussing the functional component with Dr. Day during your consultation. A portion of the procedure (such as septoplasty or turbinate reduction) may be billed through your insurance. Our team can assist with pre-authorization and insurance verification. The cosmetic portion of a combined rhinoplasty remains a private-pay expense.
Financing Options
Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery accepts CareCredit (6-month financing) and Alphaeon Credit, two of the most widely used healthcare financing programs. Both allow patients to begin their journey without paying the full cost upfront.
Ask our patient care coordinator about financing during your consultation or call (425) 818-8991 for more information.
Starting from $9,000
Your investment includes: surgeon’s fee, surgical facility fee, anesthesia (administered by a board-certified anesthesiologist or certified registered nurse anesthetist), Enhanced Recovery After Surgery medication (Exparel), Cosmetic surgery insurance coverage (Cosmetasure), high-end scar ointment (Biocorneum), swelling and bruising ointment (Arnica), and Post-operative recovery and follow-up care.
Why Choose Dr. Kristopher Day for Your Breast Lift Surgery?
Rhinoplasty is one of the most technically demanding procedures in plastic surgery. Choosing the right surgeon is the single most important decision in the process. Here is why patients from across the Bellevue and greater Seattle area choose Dr. Day:
Craniofacial Fellowship
Craniofacial fellowship — one of very few craniofacial fellowship-trained rhinoplasty surgeons in the Bellevue market. This advanced training directly translates to greater precision in bone and cartilage work.
Double Board-Certified
Certified by both the American Board of Plastic Surgery (ABPS) and the American Board of Surgery (ABS). The highest standard of surgical credential.
Ivy League Training
Ivy League training represents the pinnacle of academic surgical training. 30+ peer-reviewed publications reflect active participation in advancing surgical science.
Highly Rated in Bellevue
One of the highest patient satisfaction scores in Bellevue. Consistently praised for clear communication, attention to detail, and results that meet or exceed expectations.
Boutique Practice
Dr. Day personally performs every procedure — not a resident or junior associate. You receive the same surgeon from consultation through final follow-up.
Surgical Facilities
Dr. Day holds surgical privileges at accredited surgical facilities in the Bellevue area.
Conveniently Located for Eastside Families
Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery is centrally located in downtown Bellevue, making Dr. Day’s fellowship-trained expertise accessible to families throughout Bellevue and the greater Eastside — without the stress of navigating Seattle traffic. Our patients enjoy a private, boutique surgical experience with on-site validated parking, just minutes from the communities they call home.
Seattle
~15 minutes
World-class plastic surgery results without the downtown Seattle parking hassle. A quick drive across SR-520 or I-90 to our private Bellevue office.
Kirkland
~10 minutes
Just minutes from downtown Kirkland and the Juanita waterfront via I-405 or surface streets.
Redmond
~10 minutes
Convenient for the Redmond tech community via SR-520 or surface streets.
Mercer Island
~10 minutes
A quick drive across I-90. Our discreet, private environment is ideal for discerning Mercer Island residents.
Issaquah
~10 minutes
Convenient for Issaquah Highlands and Gilman Village area families via I-90.
Renton
~5 minutes
Easy access from Renton and the Landing via I-405 North. Boutique care and personalized attention just minutes away.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rhinoplasty cost in Bellevue?
Rhinoplasty at Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery starts from $9,000. Final pricing depends on the scope of the procedure, surgical approach (open vs. closed), complexity of your anatomy, and facility and anesthesia fees. Functional rhinoplasty — performed to correct breathing — may be partially covered by insurance. Pricing is discussed in detail at your consultation. To ask questions before booking, call (425) 818-8991.
How long does rhinoplasty recovery take?
Light walking is encouraged beginning the day after surgery. Most patients resume desk work during Week 1. You will look presentable to most social settings by the end of Week 2, when the splint is removed and bruising has largely resolved. A gradual return to exertional activity begins at Weeks 2–4, starting at 50% of your pre-operative baseline. Full activity — including contact sports — is typically cleared at 4–6 weeks. Swelling resolves over months — approximately 70–80% by 3 months, with the final refined result visible at 12–18 months.
What is the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision on the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), which allows the surgeon full visibility of the nasal framework. It is preferred for more complex reshaping and tip work. Closed rhinoplasty places all incisions inside the nostrils — no external scarring — and is suited for more limited refinements. Dr. Day determines the best approach based on your anatomy and goals during your consultation.
Is rhinoplasty permanent?
Yes. Rhinoplasty produces long-lasting changes to the bone, cartilage, and soft tissue of the nose. The final result becomes apparent as swelling resolves over 12–18 months. Normal aging will continue to affect facial features over time, but the structural changes from surgery are lasting.
Can rhinoplasty fix a deviated septum and breathing problems?
Yes. A functional rhinoplasty — which may include septoplasty and turbinate reduction — directly addresses the structural causes of nasal obstruction and breathing difficulty. This component may qualify for partial insurance coverage depending on your plan. Cosmetic and functional goals can often be addressed simultaneously in a single procedure, minimizing recovery time.
How do I know if I am a good rhinoplasty candidate?
You are likely a candidate if you are in good general health, your facial growth is complete (typically age 15–17+), you are a non-smoker, and you have specific and realistic goals. The best way to determine candidacy is a consultation with Dr. Day. He will evaluate your anatomy, discuss your goals, and explain your options honestly — including whether rhinoplasty is the right procedure for what you want to achieve.
What makes Dr. Day's rhinoplasty different from other Bellevue surgeons?
Dr. Day completed a craniofacial fellowship — a subspecialty degree focused entirely on the bones, cartilage, and soft tissues of the face. This training is rare; very few rhinoplasty surgeons in the Bellevue or greater Seattle market hold this credential. It translates to greater precision in bone work, more predictable cartilage manipulation, and a deeper understanding of how the nose functions within the facial frame.
Will rhinoplasty leave visible scars?
For open rhinoplasty, there is a small scar on the columella — the strip of tissue between the nostrils. In most patients, this heals to a barely visible fine line within several months. For closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are inside the nose with no external scarring. Dr. Day uses meticulous closure technique to minimize scar visibility in all cases.
Can rhinoplasty be combined with other procedures?
Yes. Rhinoplasty is frequently combined with chin augmentation (to improve facial balance), septoplasty (to address breathing), or brow and eyelid procedures for a more comprehensive facial refinement. Combining procedures means a single anesthesia event and a single recovery period. Dr. Day will discuss whether a combined approach makes sense for your goals and anatomy.
How do I schedule a rhinoplasty consultation with Dr. Day in Bellevue?
Call Pacific Sound Plastic Surgery at (425) 818-8991 or use the online booking form on this page to schedule your rhinoplasty consultation. The practice is located at 1260 116th Ave NE, Suite 100, Bellevue, WA 98004 — approximately 10–15 minutes from Seattle, Kirkland, and Redmond.
Schedule Your Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Consultation
You deserve to feel confident in your body again. Dr. Day and the Pacific Sound team create personalized transformation plans tailored to your unique goals.