Rhinoplasty is the term given to the reshaping of one’s nose, often referred to as a ‘nose job.’ It is one of the most common cosmetic procedures performed. Rhinoplasty can help to address the size or shape of your nose. Given the centrality of the nose, it is often one of the most closely scrutinised body parts, and one’s perception of their nose may be skewed by other facial misalignments creating an illusion of a nose issue. It would be best to always speak to a specialist about this before undergoing any surgical procedure for your nose or face.
Why Do People Get Rhinoplasty Surgery?
Rhinoplasty can be used to address concerns about various aspects of the nose, including the tip, bridge, dorsum, wide nostril flare, beaked and the length of one’s nose. As well as potential cosmetic implications, there are sometimes potential medical benefits for some individuals that can be addressed through the restructuring of the nose, helping to open up nasal airways and aid breathing.
Potential Benefits of Nose Jobs (Rhinoplasty)
- Increased confidence
- Improved breathing
- Fixed deformities secondary to nasal fracture
- Sinus problems
- Revision rhinoplasty
- Correct congenital disabilities
- Restore facial symmetry
- Reduced snoring
What Can a Rhinoplasty Do?
Rhinoplasty and the term ‘nose job’ typically encompasses surgical work carried out upon any or all components of the nose, which may include:
- Bridge – The dorsum or hump of the nose can be exposed by an incision under the nose and lifting the cartilage of the nose; excess bone is shaved airway resulting in a smooth finish.
- Tip – The cartilage forming the tip of the nose can be reshaped or excess removed. This can be achieved through the inside of the nostril or a small incision between the nostrils.
- Length – ‘Excess length’ can be attributed to the septum. Your surgeon can help achieve the desired size by removing excess tissue and can advise you on whether you would benefit from tip surgery following length surgery.
The Rhinoplasty Procedure Explained
- Step 1 – This procedure is usually performed under general anaesthetic. Choices may include intravenous sedation or general anaesthesia. Your doctor will recommend what is best for you.
- Step 2 – Rhinoplasty is typically performed either using a closed procedure, where incisions are hidden inside the nose or an open procedure, where an incision is made across the narrow strip of tissue that separates the nostrils.
Through these incisions, the skin that covers the nasal bones and cartilages is gently raised, allowing access to reshape the structure of the nose. - Step 3 – An ‘overly large’ nose may be reduced by removing bone or cartilage. Sometimes surgery of the nose may require the addition of cartilage grafts. Most commonly, cartilage from the septum, the partition in the middle of the nose, is used for this purpose. Occasionally cartilage from the ear or rarely a section of rib cartilage can be used.
- Step 4 – If the septum has deviated, it can be straightened and the projections inside the nose reduced to improve breathing.
- Step 5 -Once the underlying structure of the nose is sculpted to the desired shape, nasal skin and tissue are re-draped and incisions are closed.
- Step 6 – For a few days, splints and gauze packing may support the nose as it begins to heal.
What Are The Risks of Rhinoplasty?
The risks always should be discussed in length with the surgeon performing the procedure, but risks may include:
- Bruising and swelling
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Airway problems
- Impairment of sense of smell
- Minor irregularities
- Inadequate straightening of a crooked nose
- Perforation of the septum
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
- UK private cost: although it varies from clinic to clinic, the average price for rhinoplasty surgery from a reputable clinic can cost between £4000 to £7000.
- NHS: this treatment is not usually available on the NHS. However, it may occasionally be provided on the NHS for psychological or other health reasons.