Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is surgery to change the shape, size or function of the nose. It can refine the bridge, tip or nostrils, correct changes after an injury, or improve breathing problems linked to the nasal structure. Many people call it a nose job, and it may be done for cosmetic reasons, medical reasons, or both.

Key facts

• Treats: a nasal hump, a wide or drooping tip, asymmetry, changes after an injury, and some structural breathing problems
• How it is done: the surgeon reshapes bone and cartilage through small incisions, either inside the nostrils (closed) or with a small cut across the skin between the nostrils (open)
• Anaesthesia: usually general anaesthesia, and sometimes local anaesthesia with sedation for smaller corrections
• Hospital stay: often a day procedure or a short stay, depending on the clinic and your health
• Recovery phases: early swelling and bruising, then a return to daily life, followed by a long, gradual settling of the final shape

Who is suitable for rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty may suit adults in good general health whose facial growth has finished and who have clear, realistic goals. Suitability is always decided by the surgeon after an in-person or detailed remote assessment.

Things the surgeon usually looks at include:

• Your reasons for surgery and what you hope to change
• Skin thickness, nasal structure and facial proportions
• Breathing problems, allergies or previous nasal surgery or injuries
• Medical conditions, medicines and whether you smoke
• Emotional readiness and realistic expectations

Rhinoplasty may not be advised if you have certain health conditions, if your nose is still developing, or if the expected change would not match what you want. An honest surgeon will tell you if surgery is not the right option for you.

How is rhinoplasty performed?

The surgeon reshapes the underlying bone and cartilage, then lets the skin settle over the new framework. The approach depends on what needs to be changed and on the surgeon's assessment.

The main approaches are:

• Open rhinoplasty: a small incision across the columella, the strip of skin between the nostrils, gives the surgeon a direct view of the structure
• Closed rhinoplasty: all incisions are placed inside the nose, so there is no visible external scar
• Septorhinoplasty: combines reshaping with straightening the septum to help breathing
• Revision rhinoplasty: corrects the results of an earlier nose surgery and can be more complex

Sometimes cartilage grafts are needed to support or build up parts of the nose. These may come from the septum, ear or rib. At the end of surgery a splint is usually placed on the nose, and sometimes soft packing or internal splints are used.

What is recovery like after rhinoplasty?

Recovery happens in stages. There is usually noticeable swelling and bruising at first, then a gradual return to normal activities, while the final shape keeps refining over a long period. How quickly this happens differs from person to person.

In general terms, patients can expect:

• Early phase: swelling around the nose and eyes, a blocked feeling, mild to moderate discomfort, and a splint on the nose
• Middle phase: the splint is removed, bruising fades, and many people return to desk work and light daily tasks
• Later phase: remaining swelling slowly goes down, especially at the tip, and the result becomes clearer

Common advice includes keeping your head raised, avoiding blowing your nose, protecting the nose from knocks and sun, avoiding strenuous exercise until you are cleared, and not wearing glasses that rest on the bridge for a while. Always follow your own surgeon's instructions, because aftercare plans vary.

What are the risks and side effects of rhinoplasty?

Like any surgery, rhinoplasty carries risks. Most side effects, such as swelling and bruising, are expected and temporary, but some complications are possible and should be discussed with your surgeon before you decide.

Possible risks include:

• Bleeding, infection or reactions to anaesthesia
• Prolonged swelling or numbness
• Breathing difficulties
• Asymmetry or a result that differs from what you expected
• Visible scarring with the open approach
• A small hole in the septum (septal perforation)
• The need for revision surgery

Your personal level of risk depends on your health, anatomy and the complexity of the procedure. Tell your surgeon about all medicines, supplements and health conditions, and ask how complications would be handled, including if you have already travelled home.

What affects the cost of rhinoplasty?

The cost of rhinoplasty depends on the complexity of the surgery, the country and clinic, and what the package includes. The only reliable way to know your price is to get a personal quote after the surgeon has reviewed your case.

Factors that often affect the price include:

• Primary or revision surgery
• Whether breathing function is also corrected
• The need for cartilage grafts
• Surgeon experience and clinic facilities
• Anaesthesia, hospital stay and follow-up visits
• Travel, accommodation and transfers if you go abroad

When comparing quotes, check exactly what is included so you are comparing like with like.

How do I choose a clinic for rhinoplasty abroad?

Choose a clinic based on the surgeon's qualifications, clear communication and safe aftercare, not on price alone. Take time to ask questions and compare several options before you decide.

Useful questions to ask:

• Is the surgeon trained and registered in plastic surgery or facial plastic surgery?
• How often does the surgeon perform rhinoplasty, including revisions if relevant?
• Where is the surgery done, and who gives the anaesthesia?
• How long should I stay in the country after surgery?
• What follow-up is offered once I return home?
• How are complications or revision requests handled?

Plan enough time for the consultation, surgery and early recovery before you fly, and ask your surgeon when travel is considered safe for you.

On our site you can compare verified clinics offering rhinoplasty and send one free request. The clinics then contact you to discuss your goals and next steps. Only your treating doctor can decide whether rhinoplasty is suitable for you and which approach fits your situation.