Nose Job Guide: Everything to Know About Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, commonly called a nose job, reshapes the nose for cosmetic balance, structural correction, or improved breathing. Whether your goals are aesthetic, functional, or both, understanding surgical techniques, candidacy, the operation, recovery milestones, risks, and costs will help you make an informed decision.

Open versus closed techniques

Surgeons typically choose between two primary approaches to access the nasal framework. Open rhinoplasty requires a small external cut on the columella (the tissue between the nostrils), allowing the skin to be lifted for direct visualization of the bones and cartilage. This method is often favored for complex reconstructions, extensive tip work, or when grafts are needed.

Closed (endonasal) rhinoplasty uses incisions hidden inside the nostrils. Because there are no external cuts, visible scarring is avoided and initial swelling can be less pronounced. Closed techniques work well for more modest reshaping. Your surgeon will recommend the approach that best aligns with your anatomy and surgical goals.

Who is a suitable candidate?

Rhinoplasty is most appropriate for people who are physically healthy, have realistic expectations, and understand what surgery can and cannot achieve. You may be a good candidate if you:

• Are unhappy with the size, shape, or symmetry of your nose
• Have breathing difficulty due to structural issues like a deviated septum
• Have disfigurement or persistent problems following trauma
• Are fully grown — typically late teens for most patients (around 15–17 years old, varying by sex and individual growth)
• Do not smoke or are ready to quit before and after surgery
• Have clear goals and a positive outlook about the outcome

A consultation with a board-certified plastic or facial plastic surgeon is essential to evaluate your anatomy, medical history, and expectations.

What happens during the operation?

Rhinoplasty is usually performed as an outpatient procedure under general anesthesia or local anesthesia with sedation. Typical operating time ranges from roughly 1.5 to 3 hours, depending on the complexity.

After anesthesia, the surgeon makes the planned incisions and modifies the underlying skeletal framework. Techniques can include removing or repositioning bone and cartilage, refining or reshaping the nasal tip, and adding grafts to support structure or contour. Once the surgeon achieves the desired shape, incisions are closed with sutures and the nose is stabilized with a temporary external splint. Internal support such as soft splints or packing may be used when necessary to control bleeding and support healing.

Recovery timeline: realistic expectations

Healing is gradual and varies between individuals, but common milestones include:

1. First week: You’ll likely wear an external splint. Expect swelling and bruising around the eyes; keep your head elevated and avoid strenuous activity or bending.

2. 1–2 weeks: The external splint and most external sutures are usually removed. Many patients feel comfortable returning to work or school, though subtle swelling and mild bruising can remain.

3. 3–4 weeks: Light exercise can often be resumed. Swelling decreases noticeably, but fine contour changes continue.

4. 6–8 weeks: Most patients can return to more vigorous activities as internal healing strengthens.

5. 3–6 months: Softer refinements appear as residual swelling resolves.

6. 12 months: Final nasal shape is generally evident once internal remodeling is complete.

Patience is important — small changes can continue for many months after surgery.

Risks and possible complications

All surgeries carry risks. When performed by skilled, board-certified surgeons, complications are uncommon but may include:

• Infection or bleeding
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Persistent or new nasal obstruction
• Unsatisfactory cosmetic result requiring revision
• Prolonged swelling or changes in skin coloration
• Numbness of nasal skin
• Visible scarring or scar thickening (more likely with specific approaches)
• Septal perforation (a hole in the partition between nostrils)
• The need for secondary (revision) surgery

Careful surgeon selection and adherence to pre- and post-operative instructions reduce many of these risks.

Costs and what affects price

Rhinoplasty prices vary widely depending on surgeon expertise, complexity, facility fees, anesthesia, and geographic location. Additional factors that influence cost include whether septoplasty or other concurrent procedures are needed, the need for graft materials, and follow-up visits or revision surgery.

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Provider Type	Average Cost Range	Factors Influencing Price
Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon	$5,000 - $15,000	Surgeon experience, region, complexity
Hospital-Based Procedure	$6,000 - $20,000	Facility fees, anesthesia, possible overnight stay
Medical Tourism Option	$3,000 - $8,000	Travel/accommodation, variable local standards

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Cost disclaimer: Prices are approximate and subject to change; verify current fees and what they include with your provider.

Cosmetic rhinoplasty is usually not covered by insurance. If surgery addresses a medical issue — like repairing airflow after trauma or correcting a deviated septum — insurers may cover part of the cost. Always check with your insurance carrier and discuss financing options with your surgical team.

Making an informed choice

Rhinoplasty can deliver meaningful aesthetic and functional improvements when carefully planned and executed. Research surgeons thoroughly: review credentials, before-and-after photos, and patient reviews. Ask clear questions about expected results, potential risks, the chosen surgical approach, and recovery requirements.

Be candid about your medical history and goals so the surgeon can advise whether your expectations are realistic. Understand the timeline for healing, possible complications, and the financial commitments involved before you consent to surgery.

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.