Rhinoplasty and septorhinoplasty
procedures to address aesthetic and functional concerns of the nose
Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is among the most requested cosmetic surgery procedures. It corrects issues of nasal shape (e.g., dorsal hump, twisted or deviated nose) and proportions of the dorsum, tip (drooping, asymmetric, bulbous, overprojected) and the shape/width of the nostrils (alar base).
In some cases, it is necessary to revise the result of a previous operation that did not meet expectations. In these situations, a secondary (revision) rhinoplasty may be indicated.
Septorhinoplasty and septoplasty
Often, along with aesthetic refinements, functional corrections of the septum and hypertrophic turbinates are required. Depending on the findings, the indicated procedures are septoplasty or septorhinoplasty.
RHINOPLASTY How are the planned changes decided?
Thanks to advances in aesthetic surgery, modern rhinoplasty achieves far more natural results than in the past: the goal is to address specific concerns without altering your identity.
The importance of the initial assessment
Before surgery, the surgeon examines the external nose and evaluates the internal anatomy (nasal cavities) to identify septal deviation and turbinate hypertrophy. Standardized photographs—profile, three-quarter, frontal and basal (axial)—are taken to analyze features and discuss goals together. Surgeon and patient then agree on a tailored plan.
To maintain harmony with the rest of the face and profile, the surgeon considers the patient’s ethnic background, facial features and overall proportions—including forehead and chin balance, and skin, hair and eye color.
An experienced aesthetic surgeon reviews all details with the patient, offering clear guidance during this crucial planning stage.
Are digital previews reliable?
Some patients wish to see a computer simulation of the potential outcome. This can help align expectations, but no simulation can guarantee the exact result. Be cautious of overly “easy” digital changes—what software shows must also be surgically achievable. A realistic understanding comes from discussing the specific anatomical adjustments needed and reviewing comparable before-and-after cases performed by the surgeon.
RHINOPLASTY From what age can rhinoplasty be performed?
Nasal structures typically complete most growth around age 15 in females and 16 in males. Rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty can be considered from this age, especially when functional problems exist, provided the young patient fully understands the decision.
Rhinoplasty is commonly requested by young adults with clear goals, but older patients may also seek rhinoplasty to correct long-standing aesthetic concerns or age-related changes, such as a tip that enlarges and descends over time.
How rhinoplasty surgery is performed
Rhinoplasty and septorhinoplasty are conducted through the nostrils (internal approach). The procedure refines the shape of the nasal bones and cartilages that form the structural framework.
After carefully elevating the soft tissues off the cartilaginous and bony framework, precise, millimetric adjustments are made to the dorsum, tip cartilages and nasal bones.
At the end of the operation, the skin naturally redrapes over the new framework. Soft internal packing may be placed; it is lubricated with ointment so removal is easy and comfortable, typically the following morning.
Upon discharge, a small external splint is applied to the nasal dorsum, secured with tape. It is usually removed after one week; a light paper tape may remain for another 7 days. By about two weeks the nose is free of dressings.
Aftercare
Complications after rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty are uncommon in experienced hands. Minor asymmetries or small contour irregularities can occasionally appear and are usually correctable.
Pain is typically minimal to none. Swelling of the nose and cheeks is expected and improves significantly over the first couple of weeks.
Packing is generally removed the morning after surgery. A light protective dressing remains for about 7 days.
Light daily activities can usually resume within 2–3 days. Avoid wearing glasses for around 4 weeks. Progressive sun exposure can begin after about 3 weeks.
Anesthesia
Comprehensive rhinoplasty or septorhinoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia with one overnight stay. Limited procedures (e.g., tip refinement only) can sometimes be performed with local anesthesia, with or without sedation, as day surgery.
Closed vs open rhinoplasty: what’s the difference?
The distinction lies in the access route to the nasal framework.
The surgeon chooses the most effective approach based on the individual case. There is no single “best” method; the goal is precision and stability.
Closed rhinoplasty uses internal incisions only. Open rhinoplasty adds a tiny (≈3–4 mm) trans-columellar incision in an inconspicuous area, which can facilitate precise modification of the cartilaginous framework—especially the tip complex.
Secondary (revision) rhinoplasty
Correcting issues after prior rhinoplasty
Some patients are dissatisfied after a previous procedure and notice defects. In such cases, a revision rhinoplasty may be required.
Common causes include:
- Asymmetric or irregular resection between the two sides
- Over- or under-resection of cartilage or bone
If excessive tissue was removed, revision may require restoring support with cartilage or bone grafts using reconstructive techniques. If under-correction occurred, the revision completes the adjustments that were previously insufficient.
Whatever the starting point, a meticulous assessment of each specific issue is essential before planning revision surgery.
How revision rhinoplasty is performed
Revision aims to restore both aesthetics and function. A careful preoperative analysis evaluates the bony and cartilaginous framework.
The nasal structure consists of multiple bones and cartilages interlocking to form the framework. Surgical techniques may include autologous cartilage grafts (harvested from the patient).
Recovery is often painless, though timelines can be slightly longer than after primary rhinoplasty. With an experienced nasal surgeon, excellent aesthetic and functional outcomes are achievable.
FAQ
Do you have questions about rhinoplasty?
Read here first.
Packing is typically removed the morning after surgery, before discharge.
No. The soft packing is coated with ointment, making removal easy and comfortable.
Local anesthetic provides prolonged comfort after surgery. When it wears off, most patients describe only mild, manageable discomfort.
Yes. Contemporary rhinoplasty focuses not only on reducing excess but also on restructuring and supporting deficient areas. This allows for results that are natural-looking and stable over time.
Rhinoplasty can be performed year-round. For the first 3–4 weeks, avoid intense sun exposure.
Respecting the patient’s facial proportions, sex and ethnic features is essential to achieve a natural-looking result.
