What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to improve the appearance of the nose while maintaining or enhancing nasal breathing. The operation can address aesthetic concerns such as a dorsal hump, nasal asymmetry, a drooping or overprojected tip, excessive nasal width, or other structural irregularities. At the same time, functional problems affecting airflow may also be corrected when necessary.

 

How Is Rhinoplasty Performed?

Rhinoplasty may be performed under general anesthesia or under local anesthesia with sedation.

There are two principal surgical approaches:

Open Rhinoplasty

In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is placed across the columella, the narrow strip of skin separating the nostrils. This approach allows direct visualization of the nasal framework and provides excellent access for precise modification of the nasal structures.

Closed Rhinoplasty

In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are placed inside the nostrils, leaving no external scar. This technique may be appropriate for selected patients requiring less extensive modification.

Following the initial incisions, the nasal framework is reshaped by modifying the cartilage, bone, and soft tissues. Depending on the patient's anatomy and surgical goals, tissues may be reduced, repositioned, reinforced, or augmented. Once the desired nasal structure has been achieved, the skin is redraped and the incisions are closed.

 

Can I See What I May Look Like After Surgery?

Computer imaging may be used during consultation to help visualize potential surgical outcomes and facilitate communication regarding aesthetic goals.

Although imaging can provide a useful approximation of the anticipated result, it should be considered a planning tool rather than a guarantee. Actual surgical outcomes may differ from computer-generated simulations.

 

Will Cartilage From My Ear or Rib Be Needed?

Many primary rhinoplasty procedures can be performed using the cartilage already present within the nose.

In some cases, particularly revision rhinoplasty or complex reconstructive procedures, additional cartilage may be required to provide structural support or achieve the desired aesthetic outcome. When necessary, cartilage may be harvested from the nasal septum, ear, or rib. If such grafting is anticipated, it will be discussed thoroughly during the consultation process.

 

What Can I Expect After Surgery?

Mild to moderate swelling and bruising are expected following rhinoplasty, although the degree varies significantly among individuals.

Cold compresses are frequently applied around the eyes during the first 48 hours to minimize swelling and bruising. Nasal congestion is common during the early postoperative period because of internal swelling, and breathing through the nose may be temporarily limited. This gradually improves over the following weeks.

Mild intermittent nasal bleeding or blood-tinged drainage may occur during the first few days after surgery and usually resolves spontaneously. Saline nasal spray is commonly recommended several times daily to keep the nasal lining moist and reduce crusting.

Most visible bruising and swelling improve substantially within 7–10 days. However, subtle residual swelling may continue to improve over several months, and the final nasal contour may not be fully apparent for up to one year.

 

Will I Have a Bandage or Dressing After Surgery?

At the completion of surgery, adhesive strips are typically applied to the nose, followed by an external nasal splint to help support the new nasal shape during the initial healing period.

Internal nasal packing is generally not required. Absorbable internal sutures may be used to reduce the risk of postoperative bleeding and hematoma formation.

The external splint is usually removed approximately 7–8 days after surgery.

 

Will My Sutures Need to Be Removed?

Following open rhinoplasty, external skin sutures are typically removed 5–7 days after surgery unless absorbable sutures are used.

Internal nasal sutures are generally absorbable and do not require removal.

 

Will I Have Pain After Surgery?

Most patients experience only mild to moderate discomfort following rhinoplasty. Any postoperative pain is usually well controlled with oral pain medication during the first several days after surgery.

 

Will There Be a Visible Scar?

Any skin incision results in a scar; however, the columellar incision used in open rhinoplasty is carefully placed and typically heals very well. After complete healing, the scar is often barely perceptible.

Closed rhinoplasty leaves no external scar because all incisions are located inside the nostrils.

 

When Can I Return to Work?

Most patients feel comfortable returning to work and social activities after removal of the external nasal splint, approximately 7–10 days after surgery.

Although minor swelling may persist for several weeks or months, it rarely interferes with normal daily activities.

 

When Can I Wear Makeup?

Makeup may generally be applied 2–3 days after surgery, provided it is not placed directly over healing incisions or irritated skin.

 

When Can I Wear Glasses?

Patients are generally advised to avoid placing eyeglasses directly on the nose for approximately 6 weeks after surgery to prevent pressure on the healing nasal bones and cartilage.

Contact lenses may usually be worn within a few days after surgery.

 

When Can I Exercise?

Strenuous exercise should generally be avoided for approximately 2–3 weeks following surgery.

Activities involving direct facial contact or risk of nasal trauma should be avoided for at least 6 weeks.

 

Can I Sunbathe?

Sun exposure should be minimized during the healing period. If sun exposure is unavoidable, a high-SPF sunscreen should be applied diligently to the nose.

Direct sunlight may increase swelling and contribute to prolonged skin discoloration. Increased sensitivity to sun exposure may persist for up to one year after surgery.