Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure designed to change the nose’s appearance and, when needed, restore or improve its function. Whether the goal is cosmetic refinement or resolution of structural breathing issues, the operation involves reshaping the underlying framework and allowing the soft tissues to heal around a newly constructed nasal form. Typical operative time ranges from one to three hours, depending on the complexity and goals of the surgery.

What happens during the operation?

A rhinoplasty surgeon begins by accessing the nasal framework through carefully placed incisions. Depending on the technique, incisions may be hidden inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or include a small external cut at the columella (open rhinoplasty). Once open, the surgeon sculpts the bone and cartilage — removing excess material, refining contours, or adding grafts to build up areas that need more projection or support. After the structural work, the skin and soft tissues are redraped over the remodeled skeleton and the incisions are closed. Internal splints, packing, or an external splint may be applied to protect the new shape during early healing.

Why do people have rhinoplasty?

Patients pursue rhinoplasty for a mix of aesthetic and medical reasons. Common motivations include:

• Reducing or enlarging the overall size of the nose
• Refining the tip or smoothing the nasal bridge
• Narrowing wide nostrils
• Changing the angle between the nose and upper lip
• Correcting breathing difficulties caused by a deviated septum
• Repairing damage from injury or addressing congenital differences

Many individuals want a combination of improvements — for example, a smaller bridge plus a tip refinement — to create better facial harmony while also improving airflow through the nasal passages.

Recovery: what to expect and how to support healing

Recovering from rhinoplasty requires patience and adherence to your surgeon’s instructions. In the immediate postoperative period you can expect swelling, bruising around the eyes, and some discomfort. Surgeons typically place a splint or internal support to stabilize the nose during the first week.

Most people are able to resume non-strenuous work or school within seven to fourteen days, but contact sports and heavy lifting should be avoided for several weeks to months depending on your surgeon’s guidance. Early swelling usually decreases significantly in the first few weeks, but subtle changes continue for months; the final refined shape may not be fully apparent until up to a year after surgery as tissues settle and scar tissue softens.

Helpful recovery practices include:

1. Keeping the head elevated, including when sleeping, to reduce swelling
2. Applying cold compresses in the first 48–72 hours as directed
3. Avoiding nose blowing and refraining from wearing glasses that rest on the nasal bridge until cleared by your surgeon
4. Following all wound care and medication instructions provided

Your surgeon will schedule follow-up visits to check healing, remove external splints or sutures, and address any questions during recovery.

Choosing the right surgeon

Selecting a qualified, experienced surgeon is one of the most important steps for a successful outcome. When evaluating providers, consider:

• Board certification in plastic surgery or otolaryngology (ENT)
• Proven experience specifically with rhinoplasty procedures
• A portfolio of before-and-after photos that demonstrates consistent, natural-looking results
• Patient reviews or testimonials
• Clear, open communication during consultation and a surgeon who listens to your goals
• A realistic assessment of what can be achieved and whether alternatives or staged procedures may be better

A good surgeon will discuss risks, set appropriate expectations, and help you define an outcome that suits your facial proportions and functional needs.

Potential risks and how to minimize them

Rhinoplasty is generally safe when performed by an experienced surgeon, but like any operation it carries potential complications. These include:

• Infection
• Adverse reactions to anesthesia
• Bleeding or hematoma formation
• Persistent nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing
• Unsatisfactory cosmetic result or irregularities in shape
• Asymmetry or contour deformities
• Numbness or altered skin sensation
• The need for revision surgery

To reduce risk, follow pre- and post-operative instructions closely, disclose your full medical history and medications to your surgical team, and report any unusual symptoms promptly.

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Procedure Type	Typical Duration	Recovery Window	Estimated Cost (USD)
Cosmetic rhinoplasty (simple)	1–2 hours	Return to work 1–2 weeks	$5,000–$10,000
Functional septorhinoplasty	1–3 hours	Return to work 1–3 weeks	$6,000–$12,000
Revision or complex rhinoplasty	2–4 hours	Longer recovery; months	$8,000–$20,000

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Cost Disclaimer: Prices are approximate and vary by surgeon, geographic location, facility fees, anesthesia, and the complexity of the procedure. Consult a qualified surgeon for an accurate, personalized estimate.

Rhinoplasty can have a transformative impact on appearance and nasal function, but the decision should come after careful thought, realistic expectations, and choosing a skilled surgeon. Discuss your goals, ask to see results from similar cases, and make sure you understand the recovery timeline and potential risks before proceeding. 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.