Rhinoplasty: the answers to your questions

Dr Arie Azuelos' blog in Paris

Considering rhinoplasty can raise many questions. Whether you’re looking to improve the appearance of your nose, correct a breathing problem, or both, it’s natural to want to understand the process in depth. From the nature of the procedure to recovery, costs and possible risks, find out the answers to all the questions you have about rhinoplasty.

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure carried out for aesthetic or health reasons. Aesthetically, it can :

reshape the nose to make it blend more harmoniously with the rest of the face;
reduce the size of a nose that is too large;
refine a wide nose
correct a hump on the back of the nose;
rectify a drooping or raised tip.

It also improves facial symmetry and boosts self-confidence. From a medical point of view, rhinoplasty can correct breathing problems caused by deviations of the nasal septum, known as deviated septum, or other structural anomalies. Rhinoplasty is therefore an effective way of reconciling the aesthetic and functional aspects of the nose.

How does rhinoplasty work?

Rhinoplasty is generally performed under general anaesthetic and lasts between 1 and 3 hours, depending on the complexity of the procedure. The surgeon begins by making incisions inside the nose or through the columella to gain access to the bone and cartilage. He then sculpts these elements to obtain the desired shape and size. Tissue may be removed, added or reshaped, and in some cases an implant or graft may be used. Once the reshaping work is complete, the surgeon closes the incisions. A dressing is then applied to maintain the new shape of the nose during healing, and nasal splints may be placed inside the nostrils to support the nasal structure.

What are the potential risks of rhinoplasty?

As with any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty carries risks, although these are rare. These include infection, bleeding, reaction to anaesthesia, but also more specific risks such as difficulty breathing through the nose, loss of smell, dissatisfaction with the aesthetic result, nasal asymmetries, or the need for further surgery. Healing can also vary from person to person and can be affected by factors such as smoking. It is important to discuss these potential risks with your surgeon before the operation so that you fully understand the implications.

Is rhinoplasty painful?

Pain after rhinoplasty is generally moderate and well controlled by your surgeon. He may prescribe painkillers if necessary. Initial post-operative discomfort may last a few days and is often more related to the sensation of nasal obstruction due to swelling and nasal discharge. Each patient has a different tolerance to pain and your experience may vary.

What happens after rhinoplasty?

After rhinoplasty, patients can expect swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose that gradually diminishes over a period of 10 to 14 days. A nasal splint is usually worn for a week to help maintain the new shape of the nose. Normal activities can usually be resumed after 2 to 3 weeks, although strenuous activity and sport should be avoided for about 6 weeks.

When can the final results of rhinoplasty be seen?

It is important to note that the final result of rhinoplasty may not be visible for a year, or even a year and a half, as the nose heals and stabilises completely.

Can rhinoplasty affect my breathing?

Rhinoplasty can have a positive or negative impact on your breathing, depending on the nature of the operation. In the case of functional rhinoplasty, the aim is precisely to improve breathing by correcting structural anomalies, such as a deviated nasal septum. However, in rare cases, a poorly performed cosmetic rhinoplasty can potentially aggravate existing breathing problems or create new ones if the structure of the nose is altered excessively. This is why it is essential to choose a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon who understands the functional implications of the operation as well as the aesthetic aspects.

Is rhinoplasty a permanent solution or does it require touch-ups?

In principle, rhinoplasty offers a permanent solution to aesthetic and functional concerns about the nose. The changes made during this surgical procedure are generally long-lasting. An exceptional touch-up operation may be necessary if the results do not meet the patient’s or the surgeon’s expectations, or if complications arise after the operation. That said, with an experienced plastic surgeon and clear communication about expectations, the need for touch-ups is rare.