What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to achieve a more harmonious and balanced appearance with the face by reshaping the form, size or angle of the nose. In addition to aesthetic concerns, it can also be performed to correct functional problems such as difficulty breathing. These two goals can be addressed together in a single operation (functional + aesthetic rhinoplasty).
Because it sits at the centre of the face, the nose affects the perception of all facial features. For this reason, the goal in rhinoplasty is not a "standard" nose, but a natural and balanced result suited to the person's face, ethnic structure and expression.
Rhinoplasty techniques
Open rhinoplasty
A small incision is made across the columella (the bridge between the two nostrils), giving the surgeon a wide view of and precise access to the nasal structure. It is preferred for complex reshaping. The scar from this incision usually becomes indistinct over time.
Closed rhinoplasty
All incisions are made inside the nose, leaving no external scar. It is preferred in suitable cases.
Tip plasty
It can be applied in limited cases where reshaping is needed only at the nasal tip. Which technique is appropriate is determined in consultation, according to the structure of the nose and the desired change.
Who is a suitable candidate?
- Those who are unhappy with the shape, size or angle of their nose
- Those with a hump on the nasal bridge or a drooping tip
- Those with difficulty breathing (such as a deviated septum)
- Those who have completed facial growth (generally over 18) and have realistic expectations
The surgical process
- Consultation: facial proportions and expectations are assessed and the plan is drawn up.
- Surgery: performed under general anaesthesia with an open or closed technique, on average in 1.5–2.5 hours.
- Recovery: the splint/cast is removed after 1 week; the stages of healing are detailed below.
Recovery process — step by step
- First week: there is a splint/cast on the nose. Swelling and bruising around the eyes are normal and vary from person to person. The splint is usually removed after 1 week.
- Week 2: the marked swelling and bruising largely resolve; a return to social life is possible for most people.
- Months 1–3: most of the swelling goes down and the nose becomes markedly more comfortable.
- Months 6–12: the fine swelling resolves completely and the final, settled result emerges. The last refinements at the tip of the nose become clear in this period.
It is generally not as painful as expected. In the first days, nasal congestion is more pronounced; any pain is usually at a level that can be relieved with the recommended medication.
Nowadays, in most cases breathable silicone packing or packing-free techniques are used; this is far more comfortable than older methods.
Although the overall appearance becomes apparent within a few weeks, the complete resolution of the fine swelling at the nasal tip and the settling of the final result can take 6–12 months.
Yes. Functional problems such as a deviated septum can be addressed in the same operation as the aesthetic adjustment (septorhinoplasty).
In the closed technique no external scar remains; in the open technique the small scar on the columella becomes indistinct over time.