What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as a "nose job" or "nose reshaping," is a surgical procedure aimed at enhancing facial harmony by balancing nose proportions. It can also correct structural issues,like a deviated septum,that impair breathing.
What Can Rhinoplasty Change?
- Adjust the size of the nose to better suit overall facial balance
- Modify the bridge width or nostril size and shape
- Smooth out or reduce humps and depressions on the nasal profile
- Reshape nasal tip (e.g. bulbous, drooping, hooked or upturned tips)
- Address large, wide, or asymmetrical nostrils
- Refine asymmetry—though perfect symmetry is uncommon, the goal is improved facial balance
- Improve airflow by correcting a deviated septum and related structural breathing issues
Who Is a Good Candidate?
You may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if you:
- Are in good overall physical health and do not smoke
- Have realistic expectations and are seeking enhancement, not perfection
- Are 16 years or older, with your facial growth completed
- Experience functional issues such as breathing obstruction from a deviated septum
- Feel emotionally prepared and committed to following post-operative care and recovery instructions
What to Expect During the Procedure?
Procedures are performed under general anesthesia
We reshape nasal bones, cartilage and soft tissue, sometimes using cartilage grafts to enhance the structure and function
Two main surgical approaches:
- Open Rhinoplasty – small incision on the columella for greater visibility, ideal for complex reshaping
- Closed Rhinoplasty – all incisions inside nostrils, leaving no visible scars and often allowing quicker recovery
Duration usually ranges from 4 to 6 hours, varying by case complexity
Risks & Safety
According to the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, rhinoplasty may involve:
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Adverse reactions to anaesthesia
- Persistent nasal obstruction or difficulty breathing
- Asymmetry or dissatisfaction with cosmetic outcome
- Scarring, especially with open technique
These risks are manageable when performed by a skilled, board-certified surgeon in a properly equipped facility.
What Does Recovery Look Like?
A typical recovery timeline includes:
- Week 1: Splint applied; expect mild bruising, swelling, and the need for rest
- Week 2: Many return to work or light social activities
- Weeks 3–6: Avoid strenuous activity and exercise
- Months 3–6: Nose contour continues to refine gradually
- Month 12: Final results typically become fully visible
Patients generally report mild, manageable discomfort post-surgery with proper pain management. Recovery is greatly aided by precise surgical administration and attentive postoperative care.
Summary
Rhinoplasty is one of the most transformative procedures, functionally and aesthetically. Whether you're aiming to refine your profile, breathe with greater ease or correct a previous surgery outcome, rhinoplasty can be life-enhancing.