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Rhinoplasty, or nose reshaping surgery, is among the most popular cosmetic procedures worldwide. When performed by an experienced surgeon, it can refine facial balance, improve breathing, and correct deformities caused by injury or genetics.
However, like any operation, rhinoplasty carries potential risks and side effects. Knowing what to expect during recovery and beyond allows patients to make clear decisions and approach the process with confidence.
This guide explains the most common side effects of rhinoplasty, outlines the rare but possible complications, and provides practical advice for managing and minimising them. (1)
Rhinoplasty is generally safe when performed by a qualified, experienced surgeon, but like any operation, it carries potential side effects.
Short-term effects such as swelling, bruising, and nasal congestion are common and temporary, usually resolving within weeks.
Long-term side effects like numbness, minor asymmetry, or breathing difficulty are rare and often manageable.
Following pre- and post-operative instructions greatly reduces the risk of complications and supports faster healing.
Choosing the right surgeon is the most critical factor in achieving safe, natural-looking results.
Most rhinoplasty side effects appear within the first few days after surgery and gradually improve over the following weeks. These short-term reactions are part of the body’s normal healing response and should not be mistaken for complications.
Swelling and mild bruising around the eyes and nose are the most common post-operative effects.
Peak swelling usually occurs within the first 72 hours and subsides noticeably after 7–10 days.
Residual swelling may take several weeks—or in subtle cases, months—to fully resolve as tissues settle.
Applying cold compresses and keeping your head elevated can help reduce inflammation.
Patients often describe post-surgery discomfort as pressure or congestion rather than sharp pain.
Prescription or over-the-counter pain medication usually controls symptoms effectively.
Most people return to light activities within a week.
Internal swelling can temporarily restrict airflow, leading to a feeling of nasal blockage.
This effect diminishes naturally as the internal tissues heal.
Using saline sprays as advised by your surgeon helps keep nasal passages clear and hydrated.
A small amount of oozing or blood-tinged fluid from the nostrils is normal in the first few days.
Avoid strenuous activity or bending forward to minimise bleeding.
If bleeding becomes heavy or persistent, contact your surgeon promptly.
While most patients recover smoothly, long-term side effects of rhinoplasty can occasionally occur. These are less common but worth understanding before surgery.
Rarely, structural changes within the nose can affect airflow, especially if too much cartilage or bone is removed. Revision rhinoplasty may be needed to restore function if the issue persists.
Temporary numbness along the nasal tip or skin is common, caused by nerve irritation during surgery.
Sensation typically returns within 3–6 months.
Permanent numbness is very uncommon but can occur in rare cases.
Even small variations in healing can lead to minor unevenness or contour irregularities.
Most are barely noticeable and can often be corrected with a minor secondary adjustment if desired.
Closed rhinoplasty leaves no external scars, as all incisions are made inside the nostrils.
Open rhinoplasty may result in a fine scar under the nose, which fades significantly over time when properly cared for.
Rhinoplasty is widely regarded as a safe and predictable procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced facial plastic surgeon. However, like any surgery, it carries certain risks that patients should be aware of before making a decision.
The most common concerns relate to anaesthesia reactions, infection, scarring, and asymmetry during healing. Fortunately, these issues are rare and are usually preventable through careful surgical planning and proper aftercare.
At reputable clinics such as Berkeley Square Medical, patient safety is prioritised through:
Detailed pre-operative assessments and health screenings.
Meticulous surgical technique using advanced instrumentation.
Close post-operative follow-up to monitor healing progress.
In rare cases, patients may experience prolonged swelling, nasal obstruction, or minor contour irregularities. These can often be corrected with minor adjustments or revision surgery once healing is complete.
Understanding these potential side effects and risks can help you prepare for the procedure and recovery process. It’s crucial to have an open and honest discussion with your surgeon about all these possibilities before deciding on surgery.
Despite the potential side effects and risks associated with rhinoplasty, many can be managed effectively with appropriate care and precautions. A patient’s journey towards a successful rhinoplasty doesn’t end in the operating room; it continues well into the postoperative period.
Preparing for rhinoplasty plays a crucial role in minimising potential side effects. First and foremost, choosing a qualified and experienced plastic surgeon ensures the procedure is performed safely and competently.
Minimising rhinoplasty side effects begins long before the operation itself. Preparation, communication, and disciplined aftercare all play a vital role in ensuring a smooth recovery and achieving lasting results.
The most important factor in rhinoplasty safety is the skill and experience of your surgeon.
Seek out a board-certified plastic surgeon who specialises in facial procedures and has a strong track record in both functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty.
Your surgeon will provide specific instructions to prepare your body for surgery. These often include:
Avoiding smoking and alcohol for several weeks before the operation.
Stopping medications or supplements that can thin the blood, such as aspirin, ibuprofen, or vitamin E.
Maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated to support optimal healing.
Proper aftercare helps the body heal efficiently and prevents complications.
Keep your head elevated, especially while sleeping, to reduce swelling.
Apply cold compresses gently around the eyes and nose to manage bruising.
Avoid strenuous exercise or contact sports for at least four to six weeks.
Protect your nose from sun exposure, which can darken scars and increase swelling.
Regular post-operative visits allow your surgeon to monitor your progress and catch potential issues early.
If you notice any unusual symptoms—such as excessive pain, persistent bleeding, or infection signs—contact your medical team promptly.
Rhinoplasty is considered a safe procedure when performed by an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon. Serious complications are rare, and most patients recover without issues. While temporary side effects such as swelling, bruising, or mild discomfort are normal, major risks like infection or breathing difficulties are uncommon and usually preventable through proper surgical planning and aftercare.
Most patients experience temporary swelling, bruising around the eyes, nasal congestion, and mild pain in the days following surgery. These side effects gradually fade within one to two weeks. Residual swelling can take several months to completely resolve, but this is part of the normal healing process.
Long-term side effects are uncommon. In rare cases, patients may experience slight asymmetry, prolonged numbness, or changes in breathing if too much tissue is altered. Choosing a skilled rhinoplasty specialist and attending all follow-up appointments helps prevent such complications.
To minimise risks, follow all pre- and post-surgery instructions carefully. Avoid smoking, alcohol, and blood-thinning medications before your procedure. After surgery, keep your head elevated, avoid strenuous activity, and protect your nose from sunlight or trauma. These steps support safe healing and stable results.
You should contact your surgeon immediately if you experience excessive bleeding, persistent pain, fever, or signs of infection such as redness or pus. While minor swelling and discomfort are expected, worsening symptoms may indicate a complication that requires medical attention.
Yes, like any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty carries certain risks and potential complications, and in some cases, it can go wrong. Potential issues include anaesthetic complications, bleeding, infection, poor wound healing, or an unsatisfactory aesthetic result. Sometimes, the surgery might lead to structural problems or breathing difficulties, or the final outcome might not align with the patient’s expectations.
These risks underline the importance of choosing a qualified and experienced surgeon, communicating effectively about expectations, and following all pre-and post-operative care instructions. If a patient is dissatisfied with their rhinoplasty result, a revision rhinoplasty may be considered, although this tends to be more complex than the initial surgery.
Some studies suggest that up to 80-90% of patients report being satisfied with their surgical outcomes. However, a smaller percentage, around 10-15%, might seek revision surgery, often due to aesthetic dissatisfaction or unmet expectations rather than medical complications.
Keep in mind that the “success” of rhinoplasty is a complex combination of patient satisfaction, improvement in quality of life, and absence of complications, among other factors. This emphasises the importance of clear communication with your surgeon about your expectations and understanding the potential risks and outcomes.
Patient Journey We are here to guide you to make the right decision for your well-being. If you are considering an aesthetic change to your appearance, we know that it’s one of the most important and personal decisions you wish to make. Therefore you need to be certain that the medical advice you receive is […]
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If you are considering Cosmetic Surgery, we understand that it's probably one of the most important decisions you're likely to make, therefore, you need to be sure it's right for you and you receive professional and independent advice about your procedure.
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