Introduction
If you’re considering rhinoplasty, you’ve likely read a great deal online – and it can be difficult to know what to trust.
This is the first in our Rhinoplasty Q&A series, designed to answer the questions patients most commonly ask before deciding whether to proceed. In this first part, we focus on the essentials: suitability, appearance, breathing, recovery and long-term results.
Our aim is to provide clear, straightforward information so you understand what is involved and what to expect. Later posts in the series will look in more detail at recovery, differences between procedures, and longer-term considerations.
Why do patients choose rhinoplasty?
There are two main reasons:
Functional concerns: Difficulty breathing through the nose due to structural issues.
Aesthetic concerns: Concerns about features such as:
- Nasal asymmetry
- A dorsal (nasal) hump
- A bulbous nasal tip
Often, both play a role.
What is the difference between rhinoplasty and septorhinoplasty?
Septorhinoplasty involves the nasal septum (the internal wall dividing the nostrils) as well as reshaping the external nose.
In reality, most rhinoplasty procedures involve the septum to some extent – either to improve breathing or to provide structural support. For this reason, separating the two procedures is not always helpful in practice.
Is rhinoplasty cosmetic, functional, or both?
Rhinoplasty is commonly performed for cosmetic reasons. However, if breathing issues are identified during assessment, these can often be addressed at the same time.
Am I a suitable candidate?
Most patients are suitable, but this is assessed carefully during consultation. Your anatomy, skin type, overall health and expectations are all considered before a recommendation is made.
Can breathing problems be improved at the same time?
Yes. If breathing concerns are identified before surgery, they can usually be corrected during the same procedure.
Will my results look natural and suit my face?
Yes. A natural result is always the intended outcome.
Rhinoplasty is planned in three dimensions to ensure the nose complements your facial structure from every angle. The intention is proportion and subtlety, rather than obvious change.
Will rhinoplasty change my smile or facial expressions?
Rhinoplasty alters the nasal profile but does not change facial projection or your natural expressions.
Can rhinoplasty make my eyes appear different?
No. Changes to the nose can subtly influence how the face appears as a whole, but the eyes are not changed by the procedure.
Can a subtle slope or tip refinement be created without looking artificial?
Yes. Small refinements can be achieved while maintaining a natural appearance, provided they are carefully discussed and planned beforehand.
Is there a difference between male and female rhinoplasty?
The surgical principles are the same. However, male patients often have thicker skin and stronger nasal bones, which may influence planning and expected outcomes.
Can rhinoplasty correct sports-related injuries?
Yes. Previous injuries or broken noses can often be corrected, improving appearance and sometimes breathing.
Will there be visible scarring?
There are two approaches:
Closed rhinoplasty – All incisions are inside the nose, with no external scars.
Open rhinoplasty – A small incision is made beneath the columella (the tissue between the nostrils). When healed, the resulting scar will usually be minimal and concealed.
What should I expect during recovery?
Most patients are advised to clear their schedule for around two weeks after surgery.
- Discomfort is usually mild to moderate in the first week.
- Swelling, bruising and nasal blockage are common during early healing.
- Light activity can begin after a few days; more structured exercise usually resumes in the second week.
- Flying is generally safe after one week, depending on individual recovery.
Will rhinoplasty affect my voice or sense of smell?
No. Rhinoplasty does not affect the voice.
Temporary changes in smell can occur while swelling settles, but this resolves as healing progresses.
How long do results last?
Rhinoplasty results are intended to be long-lasting. In most cases, structural changes remain stable for many years, although the natural ageing process continues.
What are the risks?
As with any surgery, there are potential risks. These include:
- Temporary asymmetry during healing, which typically resolves as swelling reduces.
- Minor irregularities during healing.
- Rare disruption of the nasal valve mechanism (which can affect breathing).
When the septum is involved, there is a small risk of septal perforation.
Revision surgery is occasionally required, typically in 5-10% of cases. Patients are usually advised to wait at least six months before considering further surgery, as the nose continues to settle during that time.
Careful planning and realistic expectations are key to achieving the best outcome first time.
Considering Rhinoplasty?
A consultation allows your anatomy, breathing function and aesthetic goals to be assessed in detail. If you would like to discuss rhinoplasty further, please contact Wentworth Clinic to arrange an appointment.
Look out for our next blog post in the series: Rhinoplasty Recovery – What’s Normal, and What’s Not!
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