Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) San Diego
Actual Patient



Rhinoplasty, often referred to as “nose reshaping” or a “nose job,” is a surgery designed to address problems related to both the nasal shape and function of the airway. This can be an issue that both men and women are born with (commonly a “family trait”), or a problem acquired due to trauma or previous nasal surgery. Rhinoplasty is one of the top five plastic surgery procedures in the United States for both men and women, with over 200,000 surgeries performed annually.
Dr. Vincent P. Marin has established himself as one of the leading rhinoplasty surgeons in San Diego & La Jolla, CA, having performed hundreds of successful primary and complex revision surgeries throughout his 14+ year career. He also served as teaching faculty at numerous national meetings, including the American Society of Plastic Surgery, the American Society for Aesthetic Plastic Surgery, and the Dallas Rhinoplasty Symposium.
Types of Rhinoplasty
All surgical incisions will be made inside your nostrils. While scarring is prevented, there may be challenges and limitations with this approach. It may be difficult to perform more complex rhinoplasty steps such as detailed modification of the tip of the nose and its position.
In certain circumstances, this type of approach is sufficient and allows for a simple reduction of a bump on the bridge or small manipulations to the nasal tip.
Closed rhinoplasty is best suited for patients who are only seeking minor refinements.
During an open rhinoplasty, a short incision is made across the column of the nose between the nostrils (columella). This is the distinction between the two approaches. This short incision allows Dr. Marin to lift the nasal skin from the tip of the nose, view the whole nasal framework, and make the necessary changes more effectively and efficiently.
The open approach facilitates complete visualization of the anatomy of the nose and allows for a more accurate reshaping of the nasal framework and airway.
Consultation
Every exceptional result starts with a thoughtful conversation. During your consultation at Marin Aesthetics, Dr. Vincent Marin takes the time to understand your goals, evaluate your facial anatomy, and recommend an approach tailored specifically to you.
Your consultation may include:
- A comprehensive facial assessment
- A review of your medical history and nasal function
- A discussion of your aesthetic goals and concerns
- Digital imaging to visualize potential outcomes
- A personalized surgical plan, including whether open or closed rhinoplasty is the best option for your needs
This is also your opportunity to ask questions, share inspiration photos, and discuss any concerns. Open communication helps ensure your expectations align with what’s surgically possible, creating the foundation for natural, balanced results.
Before & During the Surgery
Rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure performed under general anesthesia. During the surgery, Dr. Marin will reshape your cartilage and bone to produce a more functional and refined nose that is in balance with your existing facial features. The procedure typically lasts for 2 – 4 hours.
Patients who undergo an open rhinoplasty will receive tiny stitches to close the columellar incision. Once the surgery is complete, a splint will be placed over your nose to help maintain the shape during the healing process and limit the swelling.
The nasal splint and stitches will remain for about seven days after surgery. Patients normally experience some swelling and bruising underneath both eyes. You will be given pain medications after the procedure to keep you comfortable during the recovery period.
What to expect for your
RHINOPLASTY (NOSE JOB)
Length
2 – 4 hours
Anesthesia
General anesthesia (occasionally local anesthetic with IV sedation for smaller procedures)
in/outpatient
Outpatient
Duration of Results
Permanent
rISKS
Pain, bleeding, infection, incomplete improvement, nerve damage (rare)
rECOVERY
Return to work w/ makeup: 1 – 2 weeks
Strenuous activities: 3 – 4 weeks
SIDE EFFECTS
Temporary swelling, bruising, mild pain, mild nose bleeding
Final APPEARANCE
Six months for swelling to resolve, most noticeable swelling completely resolves by 2 – 3 weeks
Rhinoplasty Candidates
The ideal candidate for rhinoplasty is a healthy individual seeking improved nasal shape and balance and harmony among their facial features. While every patient’s goals are unique, rhinoplasty may be beneficial for those who wish to:
- Refine a nose that appears too large or too small in proportion to the face
- Smooth a bump or irregularity along the nasal bridge
- Improve a bulbous, wide, or over-projected nasal tip
- Straighten a crooked or asymmetrical nose
- Correct structural issues that cause breathing difficulty, such as a deviated septum or airway collapse
- Enhance the results of a prior nasal surgery (revision rhinoplasty)
- Achieve a more natural, balanced appearance while maintaining realistic expectations for surgical outcomes
Because perceptions of size and proportion vary from person to person, Dr. Marin uses advanced digital imaging to visualize potential refinements and ensure you share a clear, confident understanding of your anticipated surgical goals well before your surgery.
Cost & Financing
The cost of rhinoplasty varies depending on the complexity of the procedure and each patient’s unique aesthetic and functional goals. During your consultation, you will receive a personalized quote that reflects the specific surgical plan recommended by Dr. Marin.
Marin Aesthetics accepts a variety of convenient payment methods and offers flexible financing options to help make your treatment more accessible.
In some cases, rhinoplasty may be partially covered by insurance when performed to correct structural issues that directly impact breathing. Our team will review your options in detail and assist you in navigating any applicable insurance benefits.
Your New Look After Rhinoplasty
A successful rhinoplasty not only improves facial symmetry, nose shape, and size but also corrects health-related issues such as breathing difficulties and congenital disabilities.
If you are interested in learning more about your rhinoplasty or nasal reshaping options, please contact us for a complimentary cosmetic consultation with Dr. Marin where you can discuss your aesthetic goals as well as the cost of the procedure.
Before and After
Every nose is unique, and every rhinoplasty should be, too. Dr. Marin’s before-and-after results showcase subtle, refined enhancements that improve facial harmony while preserving each patient’s natural character.



I flew in from the UK to have Dr Marin fix my deviated septum, nostril blockage, breathing issues and also to have slight cosmetic corrections on my nose. I chose Dr Marin because he makes everyone’s nose look flattering for their face, instead of giving everyone the same type of nose. He was also confident is his ability help with my breathing problems.
Realself
Why Patients Trust Dr. Marin
Rhinoplasty is a highly complex procedure that requires both surgical precision and an artistic understanding of facial balance. As a board-certified plastic surgeon, Dr. Vincent Marin is known for delivering refined, natural-looking results through a meticulous, personalized approach.
He is a member of the American Society of Plastic Surgeons (ASPS), The Aesthetic Society, and a Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS). Dr. Marin specializes in cosmetic enhancement and restoration of the face, nose, breasts, and body, with extensive experience in both primary and revision rhinoplasty.
From consultation through recovery, he creates a tailored surgical plan designed to deliver results that look natural and harmonize seamlessly with your overall appearance.
Rhinoplasty in La Jolla, Serving Patients Throughout San Diego
Conveniently located in La Jolla, Marin Aesthetics welcomes patients from across San Diego County and beyond.
Our modern office is designed to deliver a personalized experience from consultation through follow-up. Whether you’re visiting from La Jolla, Del Mar, Carlsbad, Encinitas, Rancho Santa Fe, Coronado, downtown San Diego, or nearby communities, our team ensures a seamless rhinoplasty journey.
For out-of-area patients, we also provide guidance to help coordinate your visit and support you before, during, and after your procedure.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
At Marin Aesthetics, every rhinoplasty is meticulously customized to enhance your unique features, ensuring results that look yours naturally.
Schedule your private consultation with Dr. Marin today to explore your options and receive a personalized treatment plan designed around your goals and anatomy.
Dr. Marin’s surgical results are so highly regarded in the industry, that several of his patients have been featured in national advertisements by Natrelle (Allergan/AbbVie), the world’s leading breast implant manufacturer.