Rhinoplasty

The first step is to meet with one of our surgeons for a consultation. During this visit, you will get a chance to express your thoughts about the final result, and the condition of your nose will be discussed and examined. It is important to consider the appearance of the nose in relation to the rest of the face to achieve the best possible result. Every nose is unique and has unique possibilities for change. The goal is to make your existing nose as beautiful as possible so that it naturally harmonises with the rest of your face. It’s important to remember that you cannot have someone else’s nose.

If you are deemed a suitable candidate for rhinoplasty, the surgeon will discuss the recommended changes, potential risks, and expected outcomes with you. Photos will be taken and analysed, and together with your surgeon, you will review the possible changes. These images are saved for follow-up visits and postoperative comparison. Rhinoplasty is a significant, life-changing decision, so it’s essential to take your time with the process. To ensure you feel confident and fully informed about the risks and expected outcomes, the surgery is preceded by two preoperative visits. Along with the initial consultation, you will meet with your surgeon a few weeks before the planned surgery to review the procedure and discuss the details of the initial postoperative period.

For your utmost comfort, it is generally recommended that the surgery be performed under general anaesthesia, though some procedures can be done with local anaesthesia or light sedation. Your surgeon will discuss the best option for you during the consultation. Rhinoplasty can be performed using either an 'open' or 'closed' technique, each with its own advantages and disadvantages. Your surgeon will explain which approach is most suitable for your procedure. The open technique may leave a small scar on the columella, which usually becomes nearly invisible over time. However, healing varies from person to person, and some may have a visible scar that can be easily concealed with makeup. In contrast, the closed technique ensures all scars are hidden inside the nose.

In most cases, you can go home the same day as your surgery, but if a more extensive procedure is performed, an overnight stay may be necessary. After the operation, you can feel assured knowing that your surgeon will monitor your recovery through follow-up visits, the first of which is usually about a week later when any stitches may need to be removed. Depending on your state, you may go home with nasal packing, and if so, you will meet your surgeon the day after surgery to have it removed.

In the immediate aftermath of the surgery and during the first week, you may experience some difficulty breathing through your nose. This is usually due to natural swelling or the presence of nasal packing and/or silicone splints. Since the nasal lining is delicate and prone to bleeding, some nasal bleeding may occur, but it typically stops on its own or can be managed with a decongestant nasal spray. You may also notice swelling on the outside of your nose, which will gradually subside. The degree of swelling varies from person to person but generally decreases within 7–14 days, although some patients may experience residual swelling for up to two months. It typically takes 1–2 years to see the final results.

Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure, making it crucial to choose your surgeon carefully. Our surgeons specialize in nasal surgery and are members of the European Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery (EAFPS).

The most common concerns after rhinoplasty are dissatisfaction with cosmetic results or impaired nasal breathing. It’s important to have a clear understanding of what results are realistically achievable before your surgery, as each nose has unique characteristics that may make some desired outcomes unattainable. Our surgeons are experienced in balancing both form and function.

In some cases, a second surgery may be needed to further refine the nose for optimal results. This secondary procedure is usually minor and can sometimes be performed under local anaesthesia. The need for a second operation doesn’t imply that the first surgery was unsuccessful. Even with experienced surgeons, about 5% of patients may require a second procedure after primary rhinoplasty. Any corrective surgery should be done no earlier than one year after the initial operation.

• Bleeding: Mild bleeding may persist for a few weeks after surgery. This usually resolves on its own or can be managed by sucking on an ice chip or using a decongestant nasal spray. However, if significant bleeding occurs, you should contact your surgeon.
• Infection: Although rare, if you notice signs of infection — such as increased swelling, redness, pus discharge, or fever — you should contact your surgeon.
• Hypertrophic scars: Although uncommon, some patients may be genetically predisposed to developing noticeable scars, which is beyond the surgeon’s control. Most patients heal with barely visible scars, but if you know you’re at higher risk for hypertrophic scarring, your surgeon can provide additional healing advice. Some patients may require corrective scar revision surgery.
• Discoloration/Bruising: Bruising or discoloration around the nose and eyes may occur but typically fades within 2–4 weeks. The skin on the nose may become slightly darker or redder after rhinoplasty, though this is rare, and such changes can last up to a year.
• Numbness: Some temporary loss of sensation around the nose is expected after surgery. This usually resolves within 6–12 months.
• Loss of smell: Although very rare, loss of smell is almost always temporary and rarely lasts longer than 6–12 months.

Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure that requires both skilled surgical techniques and a lengthy healing process. It can take up to two years for the nose to fully heal after rhinoplasty, making it difficult to evaluate the final cosmetic outcome before then. If a corrective procedure is necessary, it should be scheduled no earlier than one year after the initial surgery. If you have previously undergone rhinoplasty at another clinic and are considering revision surgery with us, it is important to bring your prior surgical report.

Secondary rhinoplasty can be particularly challenging and demands a high level of expertise. Our surgeons have extensive experience in reconstructive nasal surgery, whether following trauma, tumour treatment, or previous nasal surgeries. Reconstruction is a significant part of our practice, making us the ideal choice if you require secondary rhinoplasty.

Like all parts of the body, the nose and its tissues age over time. As a result, your operated nose may naturally change shape as you get older. If this occurs, you may wish to discuss the option of secondary rhinoplasty with your surgeon.