Rhinoplasty Surgery

• Procedure name: Rhinoplasty (nose reshaping surgery)
• Purpose: Improve nasal appearance and/or function
• Approach: Open or closed technique; may include grafts or non-surgical filler
• Anaesthesia: General (most cases)
• Hospital stay: Usually day case or one night
• Initial recovery: 2–4 weeks (plaster off in \~5–7 days)
• Full results: 6–12 months
• Common side effects: Swelling, bruising, blocked nose, minor irregularities
• Risks: Asymmetry, over/undercorrection, need for revision, breathing issues
• Revision rate: 5–15% (hospital and anaesthetist fees apply; no surgeon fee if we performed your original surgery)
• Not suitable for: Unrealistic expectations or recent nasal trauma

Rhinoplasty (commonly known as a "nose job") is a surgical procedure to reshape the nose for cosmetic and/or functional reasons. It’s one of the most technically complex procedures in aesthetic surgery and requires deep expertise, thoughtful planning, and realistic expectations.

Whether you're seeking refinement of the tip, straightening a hump, improving breathing, or correcting previous nasal surgery, rhinoplasty is always tailored to the individual. Results develop gradually, with the final outcome emerging over several months. Your consultation plays a vital role in aligning your goals with what is surgically achievable.

Rhinoplasty is an operation designed to reshape or improve the function of the nose. It may involve changing the shape of the tip, bridge, or nostrils, straightening a deviated septum, or adjusting proportions to better harmonise with the rest of the face. This procedure can also be used to correct previous surgeries or trauma.

Because of the nose’s complexity and central position on the face, rhinoplasty is considered one of the most intricate and artistic operations in plastic surgery.

• Closed Rhinoplasty: Incisions made entirely inside the nostrils. Offers quicker recovery and no visible scars, though access to the nasal structure is more limited.
• Open Rhinoplasty: A small incision is made between the nostrils at the base of the nose. Allows greater visibility and control for complex reshaping.
• Grafts (optional): Cartilage or bone grafts may be used to rebuild or support nasal structure. Sources may include the septum, ear, or rib (in secondary cases).
• Non-surgical Rhinoplasty: Temporary correction of minor irregularities using dermal fillers—best for camouflage rather than reshaping.

Your consultation is the foundation of a successful rhinoplasty. You’ll be asked to describe in detail what you like and dislike about your nose. An in-depth assessment will cover:

• Nasal structure and function (inside and out)
• Skin thickness and healing tendencies
• Overall facial proportions
• Previous surgeries or injuries
• Breathing difficulties

Your surgeon may also discuss related procedures—such as chin augmentation—if these will improve facial balance and the perceived result.

Rhinoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Once incisions are made (internal or external), the cartilage and bone framework is reshaped. The skin then redrapes over this newly sculpted structure.

You may have:

• Nasal packs for 24 hours to control bleeding
• Plaster dressing for 5–7 days to support the new shape
• Stitches on the base of the nose (in open techniques) or sides (if bones are reset)

• Swelling and bruising: Common around the eyes and nose, settling over 2–4 weeks.
• Breathing: May feel blocked for a few days.
• Tip swelling: Can last several months.
• Final results: Visible around 6–12 months after surgery.
• Revision surgery: May be needed to fine-tune results; typically low-risk but involves a longer recovery and reduced predictability.

Though generally safe in skilled hands, rhinoplasty carries some potential risks, including:

• Infection or bleeding
• Asymmetry or irregular contour
• Overcorrection or undercorrection
• Skin numbness or scarring
• Breathing difficulties
• Graft movement or absorption (if used)
• Dissatisfaction with aesthetic result

A small proportion of patients (5–15%) may wish to undergo a revision rhinoplasty, particularly if structural issues persist or healing did not progress as expected. If your original procedure was performed by us, you won’t be charged a surgeon’s fee for the revision. However, hospital and anaesthetist costs still apply.

Secondary rhinoplasty can involve more swelling, longer healing, and reduced predictability due to previous scar tissue and altered anatomy.