Facial Procedures
Rhinoplasty
Reshaping the nose to restore balance and function
Overview
Rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose reshaping surgery, refines the size, shape, or proportions of the nose to bring it into better harmony with the rest of the face. It can also correct structural issues that affect breathing.
Every nose is different, so rhinoplasty is planned individually — some patients want a subtle refinement of the tip or bridge, while others are correcting the after-effects of an old injury or a functional breathing problem. The approach can be primarily cosmetic, primarily functional (a septoplasty to improve airflow), or both combined in a single operation.
Technique also varies by case: some rhinoplasties are performed "closed", with incisions hidden inside the nostrils, while others use an "open" approach with a small incision across the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils) for more direct access to the nasal structures — the right choice depends on what the surgery needs to achieve, not personal preference alone.
Candidacy
Is Rhinoplasty Right for You?
- Concerned about the size, width, or profile of the nose
- Experiencing breathing difficulty related to nasal structure (e.g. a deviated septum)
- Recovering from a nasal injury or previous surgery that needs revision
- Wanting to address a specific feature — such as a dorsal hump, a wide tip, or nostril asymmetry — rather than an overall change
- In good general health with realistic expectations for the outcome
What to Expect
Your Journey
- 01
Consultation
A detailed discussion of your concerns, a physical examination of the nasal structure (skin thickness, cartilage strength, and septal position), and an honest assessment of what surgery can realistically achieve for your specific anatomy.
- 02
Procedure
Performed under general or local anaesthesia with sedation, typically as a day case or with a short overnight stay depending on complexity and whether functional correction is included.
- 03
Recovery
Splinting for about a week, with the majority of swelling settling over several weeks and final results visible over months as the skin gradually redrapes over the new structure.
Recovery
Recovery & Aftercare
Most patients return to non-strenuous work within 1–2 weeks, once the splint is removed and visible bruising has faded. Swelling resolves unevenly — the tip is typically the last area to fully settle — and subtle changes in shape can continue for up to a year, which is a normal part of nasal healing rather than a sign anything has gone wrong.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rhinoplasty painful?
Discomfort is usually mild to moderate and well controlled with prescribed pain relief; most patients describe congestion as more bothersome than pain.
When can I see the final result?
Initial swelling resolves over the first few weeks, but the nose continues to refine gradually over 6–12 months, with the tip typically taking the longest to fully settle.
Can breathing problems be corrected at the same time?
Yes — functional issues such as a deviated septum can often be addressed in the same operation as cosmetic reshaping.
What's the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty hides all incisions inside the nostrils, while open rhinoplasty adds a small incision across the columella for wider access — the choice depends on the complexity of the changes needed, not simply patient preference.
What if I'm not happy with a previous rhinoplasty?
Revision rhinoplasty is a recognised area of its own, though it's generally more complex than a first-time procedure due to scar tissue and altered anatomy — this is assessed carefully during consultation.
Have Questions About Rhinoplasty?
Every case is different. Get in touch to discuss your situation, or keep reading for more on candidacy, recovery, and what to expect.
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