Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty works by enhancing the overall appearance of your nose. 

Our specialist surgeons perform nose surgery under a general anaesthetic. The operation takes between 60 and 90 minutes. 

It’s usually a day case procedure, meaning you won’t need to stay in our hospital overnight.

Your surgeon will make an incision (cut) inside the nose. This means that any scars will be invisible.

They will also alter the bone and cartilage that make up the nose’s structure based on the look you want to achieve. This includes reducing the size of the nose and sculpting it. 

If the tip is too big or round, the surgeon will trim the cartilage in the area. If the bridge is wide or sticks out, they will smooth this down to improve the profile. 

If any areas are small, flat, or out of proportion, they will use cartilage grafts to build these sections. They can also rebuild the nose to create a new shape if needed.

Once they have created your desired nose structure, the surgeon will stretch the tissues over the nose and close the area with stitches. 

Finally, they may place dressings inside the nose, to prevent bleeding. Then they will apply a splint to the outside of the nose. 

This will protect the nose, reduce swelling, and maintain the shape as it heals.

You will be taken into our dedicated recovery area, where the expert theatre staff will be on hand to monitor you as you wake up.

You will be able to go home on the same day as your surgery. 

However, you will need someone to help take you home as you will be unable to drive, and we’re happy to arrange a taxi for you if needed.

Your care team will advise you about your recovery and arrange a follow-up to assess your progress.

Swelling and any nasal dressings can make it difficult to breathe through your nose during the first few days. 

You can usually remove the dressings inside the nose on the day after your operation. 

We advise keeping your head raised by using extra pillows at night, and avoiding blowing your nose. This will encourage healing and prevent the build up of extra fluid.

Bruising and swelling on the nose and under your eyes are normal following surgery. This should gradually settle. 

It can take several months to see the final results of your operation.

It’s essential to take time to rest and recover. Avoid work, exercise, hot baths, and bending down for around two weeks. 

It is also sensible to avoid crowds because getting a cold can increase the risk of infection. After this time, you can gradually resume your normal activities.

Your surgeon and the team at The London Clinic are always available to offer support and guidance. 

We will be a helping hand during your rhinoplasty recovery. 

If you’re unhappy with your nose, or an injury has changed its appearance, a rhinoplasty might be an option. Benefits of a rhinoplasty include:

• Improve the overall shape or size of your nose
• Better symmetry and facial harmony
• Restore confidence in your appearance

Your surgeon will discuss what results you can expect to achieve from a rhinoplasty.

Rhinoplasty is considered a low-risk procedure compared to other forms of cosmetic surgery. 

However, there are side effects and risks associated with any kind of surgical procedure.

Your surgeon and care team will discuss these with you and make sure you’re well informed about your surgery before you have it.

You can feel confident and reassured that you know exactly what to expect before making any decisions.

The most common temporary side effects of rhinoplasty surgery are:

• Bruising
• Pain
• Swelling
• Soreness and tenderness 

Rare complications of rhinoplasty surgery can include:

• Scar tissues inside your nose which blocks airflow
• Damage to nerves that supply the skin at the tip of your nose
• Reduced sense of smell