Rhinoplasty
This page contains information about cosmetic surgery. It is intended for adults aged 18 years and over. Decisions about cosmetic surgery require careful consideration. All surgery carries risks and individual results vary.
Rhinoplasty Overview
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that changes the structure of the nose. This page provides general information about the procedure, including potential indications, a description of the surgical approach, and typical recovery considerations. It does not replace a medical consultation, where suitability, risks and alternatives are discussed in detail.
General Indications for Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty may be discussed in circumstances such as:
- Structural variations of the nasal bridge, tip or side walls that a patient wishes to change.
- Changes following injury that have altered the shape of the nose.
- Concerns about nasal symmetry or contour, which vary between individuals.
- Functional issues related to the septum or internal nasal structures (where combined functional surgery may be considered separately).
These features can occur as part of natural anatomical variation. Surgery is elective and not required for cosmetic reasons.
Rhinoplasty Operation
During rhinoplasty:
- Anaesthesia: General anaesthesia is commonly used.
- Incisions: Incisions may be placed inside the nostrils (closed approach) or across the columella (open approach).
- Structural adjustment: Bone, cartilage or soft tissue may be altered or repositioned depending on clinical findings.
- Septal surgery (if required): Structural adjustments may be performed to improve airflow or correct septal deviation when clinically appropriate.
- Closure: Incisions are closed with sutures and dressings may be applied.
The approach used will depend on individual anatomy and clinical assessment. Outcomes cannot be guaranteed and vary between individuals.
Recovery After Rhinoplasty
Recovery periods differ between patients. General considerations include:
- Swelling and bruising: Temporary swelling or bruising around the nose and eyes is common.
- Discomfort: Pressure or discomfort may occur as the area heals.
- Nasal congestion: Temporary congestion is expected as internal tissues recover.
- Activity modification: Strenuous activity is generally avoided during early recovery.
- Follow-up: Scheduled appointments allow the surgeon to monitor healing and discuss any concerns.
Complete recovery timelines vary and depend on individual factors.
Surgical Risks
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Please note that all surgical procedures carry risks, including the possibility of complications during and after surgery.
While high standards of medical care and safety are always our priority, individual results and recovery times may vary. Each patient’s experience is unique based on their medical history, condition, and other factors. We strongly encourage you to discuss any concerns and the specific risks related to your procedure with Dr Griffin during your consultation. This discussion will provide you with detailed information tailored to your personal health profile and help you make an informed decision.
The information provided here is for educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Consult with a qualified healthcare professional for personalised diagnosis and treatment.
General Operative and Anaesthetic risks
- Acute medical event: Heart or lung complications (e.g. heart attack, stroke, chest infection)
- Death
- Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT) or Pulmonary Embolisms (PE)
- A sore throat/breathing difficulty due to the general aesthetic or the endotracheal tube, which can cause swelling, noisy breathing or discomfort
- Short-term nausea following general anaesthesia
- Wound infection, which may result in treatment with antibiotics or further treatment/surgery. This is more likely in a smoker or a person with diabetes.
- Heavy bleeding from the wound, which may result in further treatment/surgery
- Wound discharge
- Poor or slow healing of the skin; wound breakdown; skin necrosis
- Wound dehiscence (wound ruptures along the surgical incision)
- Bruising and swelling. This will start to subside in one to two weeks but can take up to several months to settle
- Abscess/Haematoma/Seroma/Oedema
- Pain and discomfort
- Allergic reaction to sutures, dressing, antiseptic solutions
- Altered or loss of sensation in and around the treated area, which may persist for some months, numbness maybe permanent
- Adverse scarring
- Revisionary surgery
- Psychological impact of change in appearance
- Unsatisfactory cosmetic appearance
Specific Procedure Risks
- Skin necrosis
- Haematoma
- Seroma
- Swelling and bruising
- Asymmetry
- Revision surgery (10%)
- Nerve Damage or Parasthesia (may be numbness or tingling)
- Nasal blockage
- Scarring or septal perforation
Post-op Instructions
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If you are considering cosmetic rhinoplasty a consultation is required to review individual concerns, discuss risks and alternatives, and determine whether rhinoplasty is suitable.
