Rhinoplasty Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

If you are interested in rhinoplasty (nose job), you no doubt have questions about what to expect. Below you can read several of the most frequently asked questions about the rhinoplasty procedure.

What does surgery involve?

Most of the time, rhinoplasty is performed on an outpatient basis and are complete within two to four hours. Local or general anesthesia is used. The surgery itself involves three components: lifting skin from underlying cartilage and bone; remodeling of bone, cartilage, and tissue; re-draping of the skin. The nose is tightly taped. Splints are applied externally and the nose is packed to help keep shape.

What are rhinoplasty risks?

Smoking, age, prior surgeries, and medical problems such as high blood pressure may affect results. Risks are due to anesthesia or surgery and include allergic reaction, difficulty breathing, bleeding, infection, burst blood vessels, excess scarring, puncture of septum, nose bridge collapse, headache, and depression

Is rhinoplasty painful?

Soreness and pain after surgery can be relieved by medication, ice packs, and warm compresses. Most patients complain of mild to moderate discomfort, much of it due to swelling and nasal packing.

How long is recovery after rhinoplasty?

Minor bleeding is common for a few days. Swelling and bruising peak in two to three days but may take weeks to disappear. Subtle swelling, especially of the tip, may persist for up to a year. Splints, stitches, dressings, and packing are removed in one to two weeks. Patients may return to school and non-strenuous work within a week. Glasses can be taped to the forehead and nose-blowing should be avoided for the first week. The nose must be protected from the sun for eight weeks. Strenuous activities should be avoided for three weeks and contact sports avoided for six months.

How much does rhinoplasty cost?

Rhinoplasty costs range from $3,000 to $8,000 depending upon your location, the complexity of the surgery, and the skill and experience of the surgeon.

Are people generally happy with the outcome of rhinoplasty?

An estimated 75 percent of people who have rhinoplasty are happy with the results. Unhappy clients are usually those with unrealistic expectations.