Rhinoplasty Guide: Complete Primer on Nose Surgery

Rhinoplasty reshapes the nose to improve form, function, or both. Whether you want to alter the size or profile for a more balanced facial appearance or need correction to relieve breathing issues like a deviated septum, understanding the procedure, preparation, and recovery helps you set realistic expectations and make smart decisions with your surgeon.

Who is an appropriate candidate

Good candidates are generally healthy people whose facial growth is complete and who have realistic goals. Surgeons usually advise waiting until around 15–16 years old for females and a little later for males so the nose and surrounding facial bones have finished developing. Typical reasons for rhinoplasty include cosmetic concerns (size, tip shape, dorsal hump, symmetry) and functional problems (difficulty breathing due to a septal deviation, collapsed airways, or other structural issues).

Emotional readiness and clear expectations are crucial. If you smoke, stop several weeks before surgery and during recovery to reduce risks and encourage better healing. Discuss any chronic health conditions, prior nasal injuries, or previous surgeries with your surgeon, since these factors influence planning and outcomes.

Surgical approaches and options

Surgeons customize the technique to your anatomy and goals. Common procedures include:

• Open rhinoplasty: A small external incision across the columella gives the surgeon direct visibility of nasal structures, which is beneficial for more intricate reshaping or tip refinement.
• Closed rhinoplasty: All incisions are hidden inside the nostrils, leaving no external scar; this approach often suits less extensive changes.
• Septoplasty: Focuses on straightening the nasal septum to improve airflow; it can be performed alone or alongside cosmetic rhinoplasty.
• Revision rhinoplasty: Performed to correct or refine results from a previous nose surgery. These cases can be more complicated due to scarring and altered anatomy.
• Ethnic rhinoplasty: Techniques are adapted to preserve culturally appropriate nasal characteristics while achieving the patient’s aesthetic goals.

Your surgeon will review your nasal structure, skin thickness, and facial proportions to recommend the best approach and whether cartilage grafting, osteotomies (bone adjustments), or other maneuvers are needed.

Preparing for the operation

Preparation lowers the chance of complications and supports smoother healing. Typical preoperative steps include:

• Stop nicotine and tobacco use weeks before and after surgery to improve circulation and healing.
• Avoid alcohol and medications or supplements that increase bleeding risk, such as aspirin, many NSAIDs, and certain herbal products, following your surgeon’s instructions.
• Arrange for someone to drive you home and help during the first 24–48 hours after discharge.
• Set up a comfortable recovery area at home with ice packs, soft pillows to prop your head, saline nasal spray, easy-to-prepare meals, and any prescribed medications.
• Complete any requested preoperative testing or imaging and follow fasting instructions for anesthesia.

What happens during and after surgery

Rhinoplasty is most often performed under general anesthesia and typically lasts 1–3 hours depending on the complexity. After surgery, you may have external splints, internal packing, or soft nasal dressings to support the new shape and control swelling.

Early recovery usually spans one to two weeks, with the most visible bruising and swelling improving in that period. Expect congestion, tenderness, and discomfort that can be managed with pain medicine and cold compresses applied around (not directly on) the nose. Follow-up visits will include suture and splint removal and monitoring of healing.

Short-term guidance commonly includes:

• Keep your head elevated while sleeping to reduce swelling.
• Use cold compresses the first 48–72 hours for swelling and bruising.
• Avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and any contact sports for several weeks.
• Follow cleaning and nasal care instructions from your surgeon to prevent infection and promote proper healing.

Subtle swelling, especially at the nasal tip, can persist for many months. The final refined appearance may take up to a year or longer as tissues settle and scar tissue softens.

Choosing the right surgeon

Selecting an experienced, board-qualified surgeon is one of the most important factors for a successful outcome. Look for practitioners with specialized training in facial plastic surgery or otolaryngology and a substantial rhinoplasty case history. During consultations, evaluate:

• How thoroughly the surgeon explains risks, realistic outcomes, and the planned technique.
• Before-and-after photos for cases similar to yours to understand the surgeon’s aesthetic style.
• Patient reviews and any available references to assess satisfaction and follow-up care.
• Whether the surgical facility is accredited and whether postoperative care is included in the plan.

Ask direct questions about the surgeon’s revision rates, complication management, grafting techniques, and how they will address both aesthetic and breathing concerns.

Prices, rates, or cost estimates mentioned in this article are based on the latest available information but may change over time. Independent research is advised before making financial decisions.

Rhinoplasty can deliver meaningful improvements in facial harmony and breathing, but individual results depend on anatomy, surgical technique, and healing patterns. Keeping realistic expectations and partnering with a skilled, communicative surgeon will increase the likelihood of a satisfying result.

This article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Please consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized guidance and treatment.