Rhinoplasty (nose surgery)

Surgery that changes the shape or size of the nose, including the bridge, tip and nostrils, and can also improve breathing. It can make the nose smaller by removing cartilage and bone, or larger using grafts such as cartilage from the ear. Open rhinoplasty uses a small cut between the nostrils, and closed rhinoplasty uses cuts inside the nose.

Adults whose facial growth is complete, who are in good health and have realistic goals.

The surgery is usually done under general anesthesia. Open or closed incisions are made, cartilage and bone are reshaped or grafted, and a splint and dressing are applied.

A splint usually stays on for about 7 days, and breathing through the nose may be hard for about a week. Many people take up to 2 weeks off work. Bruising and swelling around the eyes fade over about 3 weeks, and swelling can take 6 months to a year to settle fully.

• Bleeding, nosebleeds, infection or reaction to anesthesia
• Breathing difficulty, which can be permanent
• Septal perforation (a hole in the wall between the nostrils)
• Numbness, altered sense of smell, poor wound healing or scarring
• An unsatisfactory appearance that may need revision surgery

• Keep your head raised with pillows for a couple of days
• Keep the splint dry, do not blow your nose, and sneeze through your mouth
• Avoid hot baths until the splint is removed
• Avoid strenuous exercise and contact sports for 4–6 weeks