aesthetic

Nose (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as nose surgery, is a procedure designed to improve the shape, balance, and function of the nose while preserving natural facial harmony. The nose plays a central role in facial appearance, and even subtle changes can have a significant impact on overall balance. Modern rhinoplasty techniques focus on precision, structure, and individuality, aiming for results that look natural rather than “operated on.”

The Procedure

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that reshapes the nose to improve appearance, function, or both. It can address concerns related to nasal size, shape, symmetry, or breathing. Procedures may involve modification of bone, cartilage, or soft tissue, depending on individual anatomy and goals.

Rhinoplasty can help correct:

A prominent hump on the nasal bridge
A wide, crooked, or asymmetrical nose
A drooping, bulbous, or poorly defined nasal tip
Disproportion between the nose and other facial features
Breathing difficulties caused by structural issues

Each rhinoplasty is highly personalised to suit facial proportions and functional needs.

Common Procedures

Rhinoplasty may involve one or more of the following approaches:

Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
• Refines nasal shape, size, or symmetry
• Improves facial balance and proportion
Functional Rhinoplasty
• Corrects breathing problems
• Addresses septal deviation or nasal valve collapse
Open Rhinoplasty
• Provides full access to nasal structures
• Used for more complex reshaping
Closed Rhinoplasty
• Performed through internal incisions
• Suitable for more subtle refinements
Revision Rhinoplasty
• Corrects concerns from previous nasal surgery
• Requires advanced planning and expertise

Who Is a Good Candidate?

You may be a good candidate for rhinoplasty if:

You are unhappy with the appearance or function of your nose
You have completed facial growth
You are in good general health
You have realistic expectations about results
You understand that subtle changes often produce the best outcomes

Both aesthetic and functional concerns can be addressed during the same procedure.

Consultation Process

The consultation process is detailed and personalised, focusing on both appearance and nasal function. It includes:

Discussion of concerns, goals, and expectations
Assessment of nasal structure, skin thickness, and facial proportions
Evaluation of breathing and internal nasal anatomy
Review of medical history and previous nasal surgery
Clinical photography and, where appropriate, imaging or digital simulation
Creation of a tailored surgical plan with clear explanation of outcomes and recovery

Recovery and Downtime

Recovery varies between individuals but generally follows a predictable timeline:

Swelling and bruising are most noticeable in the first 1–2 weeks
A nasal splint is typically worn for about one week
Most patients return to work or social activities within 10–14 days
Light exercise may resume after two weeks; strenuous activity after several weeks
Subtle swelling, particularly at the nasal tip, may take months to fully resolve

Risks and Benefits

Benefits include:

Improved nasal shape and facial balance
Enhanced breathing and nasal function
Natural-looking, long-lasting results
Increased confidence and comfort

Risks may include:

Swelling and bruising
Infection or bleeding
Asymmetry or irregularities
Breathing changes
Rarely, need for revision surgery
General anaesthetic risks

Careful surgical planning and experienced care help minimise these risks.

Results and Longevity

Rhinoplasty results are long-lasting and often permanent. While subtle changes occur as tissues heal and age naturally, the structural improvements achieved through surgery remain stable over time. Final results may take up to a year to fully settle, particularly in the nasal tip. With appropriate care and realistic expectations, rhinoplasty can provide enduring improvements in both appearance and function.