Rhinoplasty: decisions, preparation and recovery
Appearance and breathing problems are different concerns. Clarify the goals, limitations and care plan at your rhinoplasty consultation.
Start with your expectations
Rhinoplasty changes nose shape or size. Breathing symptoms need their own assessment; not every cosmetic procedure corrects them. Results are not guaranteed. Choosing no procedure is also an option, and you can take time to decide.
Assessment guides the technique
Open and closed techniques use different incision sites. Closed surgery is not automatically faster or better for everyone. Previous operations and anatomy affect planning. Filler is not a risk-free equivalent to surgery; serious risks include vascular blockage, tissue damage and vision loss.
Questions at consultation
- What change is planned, and what effect is expected on breathing?
- How are anaesthesia, scarring, bleeding, infection and possible further surgery assessed?
- How do my medicines and smoking affect preparation, and whom do I contact afterwards?
Early recovery differs from the final appearance
Swelling and bruising can occur, and the final appearance may take months to settle. Plan work, exercise and glasses use with your team. Obtain written splint, stitch and nasal-care instructions; do not remove these yourself. Full recovery in one week cannot be promised.
Help for unexpected symptoms
Contact your team promptly for worsening severe pain, fever or unexpected bleeding. Call 112 for severe breathing difficulty, collapse or uncontrolled heavy bleeding. Sudden vision changes or unusual pale or blue skin after filler also need emergency assessment; do not wait for follow-up.
Information sources
These sources support general information; they do not confirm our hospital’s services or clinical approval.
This information is general and does not replace individual diagnosis or treatment advice. Discuss your own situation with your healthcare team.
Back to the health guide