Frequently Asked Questions About Rhinoplasty

Some discomfort is expected after any operation. After rhinoplasty, this can usually be managed with simple pain relief such as paracetamol, although stronger prescribed medication may be provided if required. Temporary numbness or discomfort behind the upper front teeth can also occur.

Nasal packing is not required in most cases. When it is needed, soft internal packs are usually removed the morning after surgery. Thin internal splints may sometimes be placed along the septum and removed at a follow-up appointment.

The outside of the nose is usually supported with paper tape and, when required, an external plastic splint or cast. An external cast is not needed in every case. When one is used, it is generally removed after approximately seven to ten days.

A small gauze dressing may also be placed beneath the nose to absorb minor bleeding during the first few days. You will be given instructions on how and when to change it.

The incisions used depend on whether rhinoplasty is performed using a closed or open approach. In closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made inside the nostrils. Open rhinoplasty involves an additional small incision across the columella—the strip of tissue between the nostrils. Mr Jassar will discuss which approach is most appropriate for you.

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anaesthetic, which means that you will be asleep throughout the operation. Your surgeon and anaesthetist will explain how to prepare, the potential risks and what you can expect before and after surgery.

The aim is to achieve a natural-looking result that complements your existing facial features rather than creating an obviously operated appearance. How noticeable the change is will depend on your starting anatomy and the alterations planned.

Swelling can temporarily affect the appearance of the nose during the early stages of recovery. Although most visible swelling improves substantially within the first few weeks, the final result may take a year or occasionally longer to become fully apparent.

You will receive individual guidance on returning to exercise. In general, strenuous exercise, bending and other activities that significantly raise blood pressure should be avoided for approximately two to three weeks. Exercise should then be resumed gradually.

Contact sports and other activities that could result in the nose being struck may need to be avoided for longer, particularly if the nasal bones have been repositioned. Mr Jassar will advise you according to the procedure performed and your recovery.

The cost of rhinoplasty depends on factors such as the complexity of the procedure, whether it is primary or revision surgery, whether additional graft material is required and whether functional nasal surgery is also being performed.

Following your consultation, the hospital will provide an inclusive-care price covering the hospital costs, anaesthetic fee and surgical fee. The hospital will explain exactly what is included and may also be able to offer a payment plan.

Purely cosmetic surgery is not normally covered by medical insurance. Reconstructive or functional treatment may sometimes be covered, so you should check directly with your insurer and obtain any necessary authorisation.

Glasses may sometimes be worn over an external cast during the first week, provided that this has been approved by your surgeon. Once the cast has been removed, pressure from glasses or sunglasses may need to be kept off the healing nose for several weeks.

The appropriate timing depends partly on whether the nasal bones were repositioned during surgery. Mr Jassar will give you guidance for your individual procedure.

There is no single fixed number that applies to every patient. However, each operation can create additional scar tissue and make any further surgery more complex. The likely benefits, limitations and risks therefore need to be assessed carefully before another procedure is considered.

Mr Jassar will need to examine you and review your previous surgery before advising whether further revision rhinoplasty may be appropriate.

Some nasal blockage is expected during the early stages of recovery because of swelling and bruising. This should gradually improve as the nose heals.

Appearance and function are closely connected in rhinoplasty. Changing the size or shape of the nose without considering the airway can create or worsen breathing difficulties. Mr Jassar therefore assesses both cosmetic and functional factors when planning surgery. There remains a small risk that breathing may be adversely affected, and this will be discussed during your consultation.

Many patients can return to school or sedentary work after approximately two weeks. An external cast, when used, is generally removed after seven to ten days, although some bruising and swelling may still be visible.

The appropriate amount of time away from work will depend on your procedure, recovery and type of employment. Mr Jassar will provide advice based on your individual circumstances.

All surgery carries risks. Common temporary effects following rhinoplasty include bruising, swelling, discomfort, nasal blockage and numbness of the skin of the nose. Their severity and duration vary between patients.

Possible complications include bleeding, infection, a reaction to the anaesthetic and an unsatisfactory cosmetic or functional result. Other risks may depend on the particular procedure, your anatomy and whether you have undergone previous nasal surgery. These will be explained during your consultation.