Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty is performed to refine nasal appearance, improve balance with other facial features or support nasal breathing when structural issues are present. The procedure can involve changes to the bridge, tip, nostrils or overall projection, and it may be planned as cosmetic rhinoplasty, functional rhinoplasty or a combined approach.

Results depend on individual anatomy, skin thickness, prior injuries or surgeries and healing response. A specialist assessment is needed to confirm what can be safely achieved and whether breathing structures such as the septum or nasal valves should be addressed during the same operation.

Benefits vary by person and by the reason for surgery. Goals should be discussed in a consultation using photos, imaging and a surgical plan.

• Refined shape: Adjustments to the bridge, tip or overall proportions
• Improved symmetry: Correction of asymmetry related to anatomy or prior injury
• Breathing support: When combined with septal or valve work, some patients may experience improved airflow
• Confidence and comfort: For some, improved harmony with facial features can increase comfort with appearance

It is important to keep expectations realistic. Rhinoplasty aims for improvement, not perfection, and small differences can remain.

Suitability depends on health status, nasal anatomy and goals, as well as readiness for surgery and recovery abroad. Only a qualified specialist can confirm eligibility after a medical history review and physical examination.

• General health: Patients should be medically fit for anesthesia and surgery
• Stable expectations: Clear goals and understanding of limitations and healing timelines
• Nasal maturity: Typically after facial growth is complete
• Travel readiness: Ability to stay in country for early follow ups and to follow post op instructions

Some situations may require extra planning or may make surgery unsuitable, such as uncontrolled chronic conditions, active infections, heavy smoking or recent nasal surgery. Your surgeon will advise based on your specific risk profile.

Your surgeon will recommend an approach based on anatomy, goals and whether internal structures need correction. Most rhinoplasty plans involve reshaping cartilage and bone, and may include septal work if breathing structures are affected.

Exact steps vary by technique and goals, but most rhinoplasty procedures follow a similar high level flow. Your surgeon will explain what will be changed and what will be preserved.

Rhinoplasty is commonly performed under general anesthesia, though selected cases may use sedation with local anesthesia depending on the surgical plan and the facility. Your anesthesiologist will assess your medical history and discuss the safest option for you.

Most patients describe early recovery as pressure, congestion and swelling rather than sharp pain. Discomfort is expected, especially in the first week, and should be managed with a plan provided by your clinical team. If pain is worsening, sudden or associated with fever or heavy bleeding, urgent medical review is important.

Preparation for rhinoplasty abroad includes both medical readiness and travel planning. Your care team should review your health history and medications in advance so your in person visit can focus on confirming the plan.

• Medical records: Provide prior surgery details, allergy history, medication list and relevant imaging if available
• Smoking and nicotine: Nicotine can affect healing and increases complication risk. Your surgeon may require stopping before and after surgery
• Medications and supplements: Some increase bleeding risk and may need adjustment by your clinician
• Travel timing: Plan enough time in country for early follow ups and clearance to fly
• Support plan: Arrange a companion if recommended and confirm who will assist you during the first days

Do not start or stop medications without guidance from your treating clinicians.

Timelines vary by technique, combined functional work and individual healing. Your surgeon will confirm what is appropriate for you, including when it is safe to fly and how many check ups are needed before departure.

Healing after rhinoplasty happens in stages. Swelling improves gradually and subtle refinement can continue for many months. Your timeline depends on your anatomy, the extent of reshaping and whether revision or functional work was included.

After you return home, ongoing care focuses on protecting the nose, monitoring healing and attending follow ups. Your care team should provide clear written instructions and a plan for remote check ins.

• Follow ups: Remote photo reviews or video checks may be scheduled, with guidance on when to seek local in person assessment
• Activity: Avoid pressure on the nose, contact sports and any activity that risks injury until cleared
• Sun and skincare: Protect the nose from strong sun exposure to reduce skin sensitivity and discoloration during healing
• Glasses: If you wear glasses, ask about timing and support options to avoid pressure on the bridge

If you develop new breathing difficulty, increasing pain, fever, significant bleeding or signs of infection, seek urgent medical review locally and notify your surgical team.

All surgery involves risks, and rhinoplasty has both cosmetic and functional considerations. Your surgeon should explain your specific risk profile and what is being done to reduce risks.

• Common and expected: swelling, bruising, congestion, temporary numbness, asymmetry during healing
• Possible complications: infection, bleeding, poor scarring, delayed healing, changes in sensation, persistent obstruction, dissatisfaction with appearance
• Less common but serious: significant bleeding, reaction to anesthesia, skin or cartilage compromise, septal perforation, need for revision surgery

Choosing an experienced surgical team, following aftercare instructions and attending follow ups can reduce risk, but no outcome can be guaranteed.

International patients often choose specific destinations for rhinoplasty based on surgeon experience, hospital infrastructure and the ability to plan a safe recovery period before flying home. Coordination matters because early follow ups, clear documentation and remote support can affect the overall experience.