Rhinoplasty Guide: Nose Surgery, Recovery & Costs

Rhinoplasty—commonly called a nose job—is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to improve appearance, correct structural problems, or accomplish both goals at once. Patients seek rhinoplasty to refine the nasal profile, alter the tip, fix asymmetry from injury or congenital differences, or improve breathing by addressing internal issues like a deviated septum. This guide explains surgical approaches, what to expect in the operating room, recovery timelines, potential complications, costs, and how to select an experienced surgeon.

Why people choose rhinoplasty

Motivations vary. Some pursue rhinoplasty solely for cosmetic refinement—smoothing a dorsal hump, narrowing the bridge, or creating a tip that better complements their face. Others require functional repair: improving airflow, correcting a deviated septum (septoplasty), or restoring anatomy after trauma. Many operations combine cosmetic and functional aims so that the patient gains both a more balanced facial appearance and better nasal breathing.

What happens during surgery

Rhinoplasty usually lasts one to three hours and is most often performed under general anesthesia, though select cases may use local anesthesia with sedation. The surgeon reshapes the nasal framework by modifying bone and cartilage, trimming or relocating cartilage, and refining soft tissues. When added support or volume is needed, cartilage grafts are commonly harvested from the septum or the ear; rib cartilage is used in fewer, more complex reconstructions.

Two primary surgical approaches are used:

• Closed rhinoplasty: All incisions are placed inside the nostrils, leaving no visible external scars. This method is often chosen for less extensive reshaping and can yield a quicker early recovery.
• Open rhinoplasty: A small incision is made across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) to lift the skin and provide wider visibility of the nasal skeleton. Surgeons frequently choose the open technique for major structural changes, complex tip work, or revision cases.

Common intraoperative maneuvers include removing a dorsal hump, narrowing the nasal bones, refining the tip cartilage, and performing septoplasty or turbinate reduction to enhance airflow.

Risks and potential complications

All surgical procedures carry risks, and rhinoplasty is no exception. Although complications are relatively uncommon when surgery is performed by an experienced, board-certified specialist, patients should be aware of possible outcomes:

• Infection or postoperative bleeding
• Hematoma (localized blood collection)
• Anesthesia-related reactions
• Persistent or new breathing difficulties
• Unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome that may require revision surgery
• Septal perforation (a hole in the nasal septum)
• Changes in sense of smell
• Skin irregularities or visible scarring (rare with closed technique)

Selecting a surgeon with substantial rhinoplasty experience and board certification decreases the likelihood of complications. During your consultation be open about your medical history, medications, previous nasal procedures, and realistic expectations to help your surgeon plan appropriately.

Typical recovery timeline and practical advice

Recovery is progressive and varies by individual and the extent of the procedure. Common stages include:

• Immediate postoperative period: A nasal splint and sometimes internal packing are placed. Expect swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes.
• First week: External splints and many sutures are removed; visible bruising usually improves within days.
• Weeks 2–4: Most patients return to desk work and light daily activities; the nose may still feel firm and mildly swollen.
• Months 1–3: Continued reduction in swelling makes contours more defined.
• Up to 12 months: Subtle, residual swelling resolves and the final nasal shape becomes apparent.

While healing, avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and any activity that risks trauma to the nose. Prevent contact pressure from glasses by using alternatives or special supports, sleep with your head elevated, and follow your surgeon’s instructions about wound care, medications, and follow-up visits to optimize results.

Cost and insurance considerations

Rhinoplasty costs vary with location, the surgeon’s expertise, facility fees, anesthesia, and how complex the procedure is. Cosmetic rhinoplasty is typically elective and not covered by insurance. Functional procedures—those performed to correct breathing problems or significant trauma—may be partially or fully covered if they meet an insurer’s medical necessity criteria.

---

Type of Rhinoplasty	Average Cost Range	Potential Insurance Coverage
Cosmetic Rhinoplasty	$5,000 - $15,000	Generally not covered
Functional Rhinoplasty	$5,000 - $20,000	May be partially or fully covered
Revision Rhinoplasty	$7,500 - $25,000	Depends on reason for revision

---

Cost disclaimer: Estimated prices are for illustrative purposes only and can vary by surgeon, facility, region, and case complexity. Confirm exact fees and what is included with your provider and verify coverage requirements with your insurer.

Choosing the right surgeon and setting expectations

A thorough consultation is essential. Seek a board-certified plastic surgeon or facial plastic specialist with extensive rhinoplasty experience. Ask to review before-and-after photos of patients who had similar concerns and review their revision rate and patient testimonials. Discuss what is achievable given your unique anatomy; realistic goals and clear communication reduce the chance of disappointment.

If breathing problems are part of your concern, request a functional evaluation to determine whether septoplasty or turbinate reduction should be combined with cosmetic work. Ask how the surgeon handles unsatisfactory outcomes and whether revision surgery is an expected possibility.

Making an informed decision

Rhinoplasty is a customized surgery that can greatly enhance facial balance and improve nasal function. Doing thorough research, choosing a qualified surgeon, asking detailed questions, and weighing benefits against risks and downtime will help you decide if rhinoplasty is right for you. With careful planning and realistic expectations, many patients achieve durable improvements in both appearance and breathing.

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.