2–4
hours · average duration of the procedure
RHINOPLASTY
Rhinoplasty is surgery that reshapes the size of the nose, the line of its bridge and its tip. It is not only about appearance: because the structures inside the nose can be assessed during the same operation, problems that make breathing difficult can be addressed at the same time. Planning is individual — facial proportions, skin thickness, cartilage structure and the person’s expectations are considered together.
SURGICAL APPROACH
Which technique is suitable is decided by the surgeon, based on the structure of the nose and the extent of the correction. Neither is superior to the other; they answer different needs. The technique is chosen after an examination — firm decisions made online from a photograph are not reliable.
A small incision is made in the thin skin between the nostrils, so the surgeon works with a direct view of the structure of the nose. It may be preferred for more extensive corrections and where a revision is needed. The scar fades over time.
All incisions are made inside the nose, so no scar is visible on the outside. It suits situations that call for a more limited intervention; in most people the swelling and the recovery period are shorter.
RECOVERY
The periods below describe the usual course. How quickly swelling and bruising settle differs from person to person and depends on the technique and on the skin.
A splint sits on the bridge of the nose. Swelling and bruising begin to increase during this period; keeping the head above heart level helps to reduce the swelling.
Swelling usually peaks on day 3 or 4 and then begins to subside. At the end of the week the splint is removed and the inside of the nose is cleaned.
Most of the bruising fades. Most people return to desk work during this period. Sports that carry a risk of impact should still be avoided.
The obvious swelling resolves and the nose begins to look natural in everyday life. Swelling at the tip is the last to go.
The tissue settles completely and the result becomes clear. In people with thicker skin this can take longer. Check-ups continue throughout this period.
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results can differ from person to person. The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a medical examination.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
The questions that come up most often at initial consultations, with general answers.
It is usually carried out under general anaesthetic and takes 2–4 hours on average. The duration depends on the extent of the correction and on whether you have had nose surgery before.
Most people in desk-based work return within 1–2 weeks. How quickly the bruising clears differs from person to person. Physically demanding work and sports that carry a risk of impact call for a longer break.
Most of the swelling resolves within the first 2–3 months, while the final shape of the nose usually appears between 6 and 12 months. The tip is where swelling lasts longest, and in people with thicker skin this can take more time.
If a deviation inside the nose (a deviated septum) makes breathing difficult, that correction can be carried out in the same session. The procedure is then called a septorhinoplasty. Suitability is determined after an examination and, where necessary, imaging.
Neither has a general advantage over the other. The closed technique leaves no visible scar and recovery is shorter for most people; the open technique gives the surgeon a direct view for more extensive corrections. The choice is made at the examination, according to the structure of the nose.
Before surgery, blood tests and an anaesthetic assessment are carried out to check your general health. Blood-thinning medication and certain herbal supplements are stopped for a period your doctor will specify. Smoking is known to have an adverse effect on tissue healing.
RESULTS
With any surgical or interventional procedure, results can differ from person to person. The information on this page is for general guidance and does not replace a medical examination.
You can reach our team to request an initial assessment or with questions about the process and the planning.
