Aesthetic surgery
Rhinoplasty — nose reshaping surgery
Surgery to change the shape of the nose, which may also take nasal breathing into account, including after injury.
Overview
Also known as: nose job, nose surgery, nose reshaping
Rhinoplasty is an operation to change the shape of the nose — for example a hump, its width, the tip or an asymmetry. The nose sits at the centre of the face, and even small changes affect the overall balance of the features, so any correction is planned in relation to the face as a whole.
Beyond its appearance, the nose has an important function — breathing. Some patients have concerns about both the look of the nose and difficulty breathing through it, for example when it has become crooked after an injury. In such cases both aspects are assessed together and, where needed, an ear, nose and throat (ENT) specialist is also involved.
The aim is a natural-looking nose in harmony with the other features. What can realistically be achieved depends on the anatomy, the skin and individual factors, and is discussed openly at consultation.
When to seek a consultation
- Dissatisfaction with the shape of the nose — a hump, a wide or drooping tip, or asymmetry.
- A nose that has become crooked or changed shape after an injury.
- Difficulty breathing through the nose combined with a change in its shape.
- A wish for secondary correction after previous nasal surgery.
What treatment may involve
- Examination of the nose inside and out, analysis of facial proportions and a discussion of expectations.
- Where needed, imaging or an ENT consultation to assess breathing.
- Depending on the individual plan, surgery may involve changes to the bony and cartilage framework of the nose.
- It is carried out under anaesthesia, the type of which depends on the extent of the procedure and your general health.
- A splint is usually placed after surgery, and follow-up visits are planned individually.
What to bring to the consultation
- An identity document.
- Information about any previous surgery or procedures on the face.
- A list of your current medicines, known allergies and chronic conditions.
Recovery and follow-up
In the first days after surgery there is usually swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes, and the nose may feel blocked. Discomfort varies from person to person and is managed with the recommended measures.
Swelling settles gradually, and the final shape of the nose develops over a longer, individual period. Following the aftercare advice and attending follow-up visits are an important part of recovery.
Risks and alternatives
Besides general surgical risks (related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection), there may be prolonged swelling, asymmetry, altered sensation, difficulty breathing through the nose, or a result that does not fully meet expectations. A further correction is sometimes needed.
Alternatives include deciding not to have surgery, or treating only the functional problem if a change in appearance is not the main goal. What is appropriate is decided individually after consultation.
Every surgical procedure carries general risks — for example those related to anaesthesia, bleeding, infection, delayed healing or scarring. The specific risks depend on your health, and on the type and extent of the procedure.
Possible alternatives — including observation, non-surgical treatment or referral to another specialist — are discussed openly during the consultation.
Outcomes and recovery time vary between individuals and cannot be guaranteed in advance.
Frequently asked questions
Is nose surgery painful?
The operation is carried out under anaesthesia. Afterwards some discomfort, swelling and a blocked feeling in the nose are normal; they vary from person to person and are eased with the recommended measures.
Can rhinoplasty improve breathing?
When breathing difficulty is related to the structure of the nose, this may be part of the plan. However, a blocked nose has many possible causes, which are clarified by examination, sometimes together with an ENT specialist.
Can a nose that is crooked after an injury be corrected?
Yes, deformity of the nose after injury is a common reason for consultation. The timing and approach depend on how long ago the injury occurred and on the examination. For a fresh injury with heavy bleeding or difficulty breathing, call 112.
How much does rhinoplasty cost?
The fee depends on the extent of surgery and the individual plan, and is discussed after consultation and examination.
This information does not replace a medical examination. Whether treatment is suitable for you is assessed individually after a consultation.