Rhinoplasty Surgery: Diagnosis, Procedure, & Recovery

Who Can Consider Rhinoplasty Surgery?

Both men and women can consider rhinoplasty surgery as required. It can be considered to address any of the following:

• Change the nose size to make it proportionate to the facial features 
• Remove the hump on the nose
• Straighten the nose bridge 
• Reshape the nasal tip or projection 
• Increase or decrease the size of nostrils 
• Correct a birth defect or deformity 
• Repair the nose after an injury 
• Resolve breathing issues and open the nasal passage 

If an individual is worried that his/her nose looks bulbous, upturned, too round, too large, too small, or droopy, rhinoplasty would be the most effective option to address all their concerns. 

Diagnosis Before Nose Job

Before rhinoplasty surgery, a comprehensive evaluation and diagnosis is done to ensure that the individual is considering surgery for the right reasons and the procedure can address his/her specific concerns. The rhinoplasty surgeon will discuss the individual’s goals, expectations, and all other concerns regarding his/her nose. Along with this, he/she will evaluate the individual’s nasal anatomy, including the shape, size, symmetry, and structural characteristics. 

Other evaluations will include the following:

• Medical History: The surgeon will review the patient’s medical history, including any previous surgeries, current medications, allergies, and existing medical conditions, 
• Physical Exam: A thorough physical exam is conducted to assess the internal structures, including the septum, turbinates, nasal passages, and the external appearance of the nose. The nasal proportions, symmetry, skin thickness, existing deformities, and other functional issues are also identified during the evaluation. 
• Imaging Test: In some cases, the surgeon may recommend imaging tests, such as CT (computerized tomography) scans or 3D imaging tests, to assess the nasal structure more accurately. These tests help to visualize the internal structure of the nose and aid in pre-operative planning. 

While planning the surgery, the surgeon will discuss the potential risks and complications associated with the procedure and the individual’s expectations. Based on the diagnosis and evaluations, the surgeon will develop a personalized surgical plan tailored to the individual’s needs and goals and also take images from different angles to record the before and after changes. 

Rhinoplasty Surgery

Each rhinoplasty is unique in its own way, as the procedure is customized according to the patient’s requirements. Being a complex procedure, the surgery may take around 1 to 3 hours approximately, depending on the extent of modifications. The various aspects of the surgery are explained below in detail.

Benefits of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, offers several potential benefits to individuals who choose to undergo the procedure. Here are some of the common benefits associated with rhinoplasty:

• Enhanced Facial Harmony: Rhinoplasty can improve the overall balance and proportion of the face by bringing the nose into better alignment with other facial features. It can create a more harmonious appearance, improving the overall aesthetic balance of the face.
• Improved Self-Confidence: Many individuals who are dissatisfied with the shape or size of their noses may feel self-conscious or have lower self-esteem. Rhinoplasty can help address these concerns and improve self-confidence by creating a nose that aligns with their desired aesthetic goals.
• Correcting Nasal Deformities: Rhinoplasty can correct various nasal deformities, such as a crooked or deviated nose, a hump on the bridge, a bulbous or drooping tip, or asymmetry. By addressing these issues, rhinoplasty can help create a more symmetrical and pleasing nasal appearance.
• Functional Improvements: In some cases, rhinoplasty can improve nasal function and alleviate breathing difficulties. The procedure can correct structural abnormalities like a deviated septum or nasal valve collapse, allowing for better airflow and improved breathing.
• Correction of Birth Defects or Trauma: Rhinoplasty can help correct nasal abnormalities caused by birth defects or injuries. It can restore the shape, structure, and function of the nose, improving both appearance and function.
• Ethnic and Cultural Preservation: Ethnic rhinoplasty techniques allow for the preservation of ethnic or cultural characteristics while enhancing the nose’s appearance. It respects the unique features and cultural identities of individuals while addressing specific aesthetic concerns.
• Rejuvenation and Aging: Rhinoplasty can also be performed as part of facial rejuvenation procedures. It can help restore a more youthful and refreshed appearance by addressing changes in the nose that occur with aging, such as drooping or sagging of nasal tissues.

The benefits of rhinoplasty will vary for each patient, and it’s important to openly have a discussion with the surgeon to have realistic expectations

How to Prepare for Rhinoplasty?

The rhinoplasty surgeon will provide clear and detailed instructions to prepare the individual for rhinoplasty surgery. The general guidelines include the following:

• Get the recommended tests done and keep the reports in hand during admission. 
• Avoid certain medications and supplements that can increase the risk of bleeding during or after the surgery or can interfere with anesthesia. Such medicines include blood thinners, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, aspirin, and herbal supplements. 
• The surgeon may advise the patient to quit smoking at least 2-3 weeks before the surgery to reduce smoking-related complications during and after the surgery. 
• Avoid drinking alcohol 2 days before the surgery as it can cause severe dehydration and also react with anesthesia. 
• Refrain from eating or drinking anything 6 to 8 hours before the surgery. Fasting is recommended before surgery to reduce the risk of aspiration. 
• Arrange for transportation and assistance after the surgery. It’ll be best to ask a responsible adult to accompany you to the surgical facility who can take you back home. 
• Take a proper bath on the day of surgery before getting admitted to the center, and avoid applying any skincare products. 

It’ll also be helpful to take time off work or school as recommended by the surgeon. On the day of surgery, the patient is also asked to sign a consent form before proceeding. 

Rhinoplasty Procedure

During a rhinoplasty, several steps are involved to reshape and enhance the nose. Here’s a general overview of what happens during a typical rhinoplasty procedure:

• Before the surgery begins, the patient is given anesthesia to ensure comfort throughout the procedure. It can be either general anesthesia, where you are asleep, or local anesthesia with sedation, where you are relaxed but still conscious. In most cases, general anesthesia is used for rhinoplasty. 
• Depending on the surgical approach (open or closed), the surgeon will make incisions either inside the nostrils (closed rhinoplasty) or across the columella (the strip of tissue between the nostrils) with additional internal incisions (open rhinoplasty). The choice of approach depends on the specific goals of the surgery and the surgeon’s preference. 
• After making the incisions, the surgeon will access the underlying nasal structures, including the bones, cartilage, and soft tissues. Through meticulous techniques, the surgeon will reshape and modify these structures according to the predetermined surgical plan. The changes may involve reducing or augmenting the size, refining the nasal tip, removing a nasal hump, adjusting the nostril size, or improving the overall symmetry and proportion.
• In some cases, additional tissue(grafts) or implants may be required to achieve the desired results. Cartilage grafts, often taken from the septum (the partition inside the nose), ear, or rib, can be used to augment or support specific areas of the nose. 
• Once the desired reshaping and modifications are completed, the incisions are carefully closed using sutures. If dissolvable sutures are used, they will dissolve over time. If non-dissolvable sutures are used, they will be removed during a follow-up appointment.
• The surgeon may place nasal packing or splints inside the nose to support the newly shaped nose and help reduce swelling and bleeding. These are typically removed within a few days after the surgery.

After the surgery, the patient is transferred to a recovery room where his/her vitals are monitored for the next few hours. The patient is usually discharged from the facility on the same day

What to Expect After Rhinoplasty?

Immediately after the surgery, the patient can expect significant swelling and bruising in the treated area, including around the eyes. In the first few days, the swelling will be maximum and will start to subside gradually as the nose heals. Besides this, there will be serious nasal congestion and stuffiness due to post-operative swelling and nasal splints. Due to this, the patient will have to breathe through the mouth. 

Some discomfort or mild pain around the nose and face is also expected following rhinoplasty. The surgeon will prescribe pain medication to help manage any discomfort during the initial recovery period. The patient may also experience nasal drainage and breathing issues for the first few days. 

The surgeon will provide a detailed guide consisting of dos and don’ts and a proper diet for a smooth and successful recovery. 

Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline & Results

The final results of rhinoplasty can take around 6 to 12 months to become apparent. The individual should understand this and be patient during the recovery to achieve the desired results. 

The initial recovery time after rhinoplasty is 4 to 6 weeks, during which the swelling, bruising, redness, and other side effects will dissipate, and the patient will be able to resume normal activities. The general rhinoplasty recovery timeline will be as below. 

First Week After Rhinoplasty: 

In the first week, the swelling and bruising will be at their peak and gradually improve as the day progresses. The surgeon will monitor the patient’s recovery and remove external dressings or splints, if any. In the initial days, the patient will be advised to sleep with his/her head elevated and avoid certain activities that can increase the blood flow or strain the nose. 

2-3 Weeks After Rhinoplasty: 

In the second and third weeks, the swelling and bruising will continue to subside. It should be kept in mind that minor swelling will persist for several weeks to months. The nasal congestion and breathing issues will also start to improve as the swelling subsides and internal splints are also removed. The patient needs to continue to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and exercises that can impact the nose. Protect the nose from accidental trauma and avoid even blowing the nose forcefully. 

1-3 Months After Rhinoplasty:

While most of the visible swelling resolves within 2-4 weeks, it may take several months for the final results to manifest as the nose fully settles into its new shape. As the healing progresses, the nasal contours refine, and the appearance becomes more refined and natural. The patient will still have to make follow-up appointments with the surgeon to monitor his/her progress. 

As mentioned above, the final results of rhinoplasty can take longer to appear, usually a year or so. Throughout the recovery process, the patient will have to take several precautions and follow the surgeon’s instructions strictly to get the desired results. 

Rhinoplasty Side Effects & Potential Complications

Being a complex procedure, rhinoplasty carries certain risks. Typically, the patient experiences side effects, such as swelling, bruising, redness, and drainage in the treated area. These side effects are temporary and often resolve on their own after some time. However, there are chances of developing potential complications that may require intervention from the doctor. These complications may include the following:

• Infection: Although rare, there is a risk of infection following rhinoplasty. Signs of infection may include increased pain, swelling, redness, or drainage from the incision site. Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent or treat an infection if it occurs. 
• Bleeding: Some bleeding is expected during and immediately after the surgery. However, excessive bleeding can occur, either internally or externally. In rare cases, it may require medical intervention, such as nasal packing or, in severe cases, additional surgery to control the bleeding. 
• Poor Wound Healing or Scarring: Some individuals may have a predisposition to poor wound healing or excessive scarring. While efforts are made to minimize visible scars, there is a small risk of unfavorable scarring, especially with open rhinoplasty where there is an external incision.
• Nasal Obstruction or Breathing Difficulties: Rhinoplasty can potentially affect the nasal airflow and, in rare cases, lead to breathing difficulties or nasal obstruction. This may occur due to structural changes in the nasal passages, swelling, or scar tissue formation.
• Altered Sensation: Temporary or permanent changes in sensation around the nose, including numbness or altered feeling, can occur after rhinoplasty. Most often, these changes are temporary, but in some cases, they may be permanent.
• Nasal Asymmetry: Achieving perfect symmetry is challenging, and there is a possibility of slight asymmetry after rhinoplasty. To prevent this, it’s crucial to choose a skilled and experienced surgeon. 
• Unsatisfactory Results: While rhinoplasty aims to improve the appearance of the nose, there is a possibility that the patient may not feel satisfied with the outcome. This may require revision rhinoplasty. 
• Anesthesia Risks: General anesthesia or sedation carries its own set of risks, such as adverse reactions, respiratory problems, or medication-related complications. However, these risks are typically low and closely monitored by an experienced anesthesia team.

To prevent these complications, the patient needs to diligently follow the surgeon’s advice and instructions for post-operative care. 

Tips to Follow During Rhinoplasty Recovery

After nose plastic surgery, the patient is advised to follow the tips below for optimal recovery and to reduce the risk of post-surgery complications:

• Take prescribed medications as instructed by the surgeon. This may include pain medication, antibiotics (if prescribed), and any nasal sprays or ointments. Be consistent with the prescribed dosage and schedule. 
• Apply cold compresses or ice packs gently to the nasal area as directed by your surgeon. This can help reduce swelling and bruising. Avoid applying ice directly to the skin to prevent cold burns. 
• In the first two weeks, sleep with the head elevated to prevent fluid buildup in the nose. This will help to reduce the swelling and allow proper drainage. 
• Follow the surgeon’s instructions for nasal care. This may involve using saline solutions or nasal sprays to clean the nostrils. 
• Avoid blowing the nose forcefully and triggers that can cause sneezing. Coughing or sneezing can increase the pressure in the nasal passages, which should be avoided in the early recovery phase. 
• Restrict physical activities, including heavy lifting, intense exercises, and activities that could increase blood pressure or strain on the nose. 
• Take the necessary precautions to avoid accidental trauma to the nose during the recovery period. Avoid any or all activities where the nose may get injured. 
• Avoid direct sun exposure to the treated area completely in the first month. After that, apply sunscreen and wear caps or scarves to protect the nose from sun damage. 
• Consume a healthy and balanced diet composed of vitamins, minerals, and proteins that are essential to support the healing process. 
• Maintain hydration by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. It’ll also help to flush out toxins from the body. 
• Avoid eating spicy, oily, processed, and other fast foods as they are unhealthy. 
• Refrain from smoking and drinking for as long as possible, as they can cause severe dehydration and delayed healing. 
• Attend all the scheduled follow-up appointments with the surgeon. The surgeon will remove the splints and stitches and also provide further guidance for recovery. 

Most of all, the patient needs to keep patience during the recovery period and manage their expectations. 

Rhinoplasty Cost in India

On average, nose job cost in India varies from Rs. 70,000 to Rs. 1,50,000. This is only an estimated price range, and the exact cost of rhinoplasty will vary due to the following factors:

• The expertise and experience of the surgeon
• Nature of surgery, i.e., cosmetic, functional, or both
• The technique used for nose correction and reshaping 
• Diagnostic tests and evaluations 
• Choice of the hospital (private or government)
• Hospital or clinic-related charges (admission, discharge, room rent, etc.)
• Post-surgery care and follow-up consultations 

To get an estimate of nose surgery cost in India, give us a call and talk to our experts.

Alternatives to Rhinoplasty Surgery

People who don’t wish to get rhinoplasty but still want to change the shape of their nose can consider the following alternatives. 

Liquid Rhinoplasty 

Also called non-surgical rhinoplasty, a liquid rhinoplasty involves using injectable dermal fillers to reshape and contour the nose. Typically, hyaluronic acid fillers, such as Restylane or Juvederm, are used to add volume, smooth out bumps, and correct minor imperfections in the nose. It is a less invasive procedure and has a shorter recovery time compared to surgery. Another thing to note is that the results of non-surgical rhinoplasty are temporary, and the patient will require maintenance treatments. 

Thread Lift

A thread lift is a non-surgical procedure that uses dissolvable sutures or threads to lift and reposition the tissues of the nose. It can help improve the shape and contour of the nose, particularly in cases where the tip is drooping or the bridge needs elevation. Similar to liquid rhinoplasty, thread lifts provide immediate results and have a shorter recovery time compared to surgery, but the effects are temporary, lasting up to a year or two.

Besides these, an individual can also consider nasal sculpting with makeup or nose reshaping devices, such as nose clips that need to be worn for a specific duration each day to gradually mold the nasal cartilage. It should be noted that while these alternatives provide some improvements in the appearance of the nose, these options may not be suitable for everyone or provide the same level of correction as surgery.