Understanding Rhinoplasty: Procedure, Preparation, Recovery & Results

Rhinoplasty is surgery that changes the shape of the nose. The reason for rhinoplasty may be to change the appearance of the nose, improve breathing or both.

The upper part of the structure of the nose is bone. The lower part is cartilage. Rhinoplasty can change bone, cartilage, skin or all three. Talk with your surgeon about whether rhinoplasty is appropriate for you and what it can achieve.

Your other facial features, the skin on your nose and what you would like to change are considered when planning the procedure. If you're a candidate for rhinoplasty, the surgeon will develop a personal plan for you.

Why It's Done

Rhinoplasty can change the size, shape or proportions of the nose. It may be done to fix issues from an injury, correct a birth defect or improve some breathing problems.

How You Prepare

Before scheduling rhinoplasty, you meet with a surgeon. You talk about things that determine whether the surgery will work well for you. This meeting usually includes:

  • Your medical history: The most important question is about why you want the surgery and your goals. You also answer questions about your medical history, including nasal blockages, surgeries and medications. If you have a bleeding disorder, such as hemophilia, you may not be a candidate for rhinoplasty.
  • A physical exam: Your facial features and the inside and outside of your nose are examined to determine what changes need to be made and how rhinoplasty might affect your breathing.

Food and Medications

Avoid aspirin or ibuprofen for 48 to 72 hours before and after surgery as they may increase bleeding. Take only medications approved by your surgeon. Avoid herbal remedies and stop smoking or vaping, which can slow healing and increase infection risk.

What You Can Expect?

During the Procedure

Rhinoplasty is customized to each person’s anatomy and goals. You will receive anesthesia:

  • Local anesthesia with sedation: Used in outpatient settings. You remain groggy but not fully asleep.
  • General anesthesia: You are completely asleep, usually with a breathing tube.

The surgery may be done through internal or small external incisions. The surgeon reshapes bone and cartilage. For minor changes, cartilage may be used from inside the nose or ear. For larger changes, rib cartilage, bone grafts, or implants may be needed.

If the septum is deviated, it can be straightened during surgery to improve breathing. Afterward, you’re taken to a recovery room. You may go home the same day or stay overnight.

After the Procedure

After surgery, rest in bed with your head raised to reduce bleeding and swelling. Internal bandages may stay for 1 to 7 days. A splint may be placed for about a week.

Some bleeding and drainage are normal. Use a drip pad if needed, and follow your provider’s instructions closely.

Tips for Recovery

  • Avoid intense physical activity.
  • Take baths instead of showers until bandages are removed.
  • Don’t blow your nose.
  • Sneeze/cough with your mouth open.
  • Avoid smiling/laughing.
  • Eat high-fiber foods to prevent constipation.
  • Brush teeth gently.
  • Wear clothes that don’t pull over your head.
  • Don’t rest glasses on your nose for 4 weeks; use cheek supports or forehead taping.
  • Use SPF 30 on your nose when outside to avoid skin discoloration.

You may have bruising or swelling for up to 2–3 weeks, and nose swelling can last a year. Reducing sodium intake helps minimize swelling. Avoid cold packs on the nose post-surgery.

Results

Small structural changes can significantly affect appearance. Most people are satisfied after the first surgery, but if further changes are needed, a second surgery can be considered after one year.