Rhinoplasty is a common operation, and most patients recover without serious problems, but every surgery carries risk. General risks include bleeding, infection, blood clots and reactions to anaesthetic. Risks specific to nose surgery include nosebleeds, breathing difficulty, asymmetry, irregularities, altered sensation, septal perforation and dissatisfaction that may lead to revision. Understanding what is normal during healing, and what is not, helps you recover safely.
General surgical risks
- Bleeding: some oozing is expected for a day or two. Significant bleeding is uncommon and is reduced by stopping blood-thinning supplements and certain medicines before surgery, on advice.
- Infection: uncommon in the nose, which has a good blood supply. Careful technique, hygiene and, where appropriate, antibiotics reduce the risk.
- Blood clots: deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism are rare after nose surgery, but the risk is assessed for everyone. Walking early and staying hydrated help.
- Anaesthetic: reactions are rare and are managed by a consultant anaesthetist, who will review your health before surgery.
Risks specific to rhinoplasty
- Asymmetry and irregularities: small bumps or differences between sides may become visible as swelling settles, especially in thin skin.
- Breathing problems: the nose may feel blocked for weeks during healing; rarely, persistent obstruction occurs if support is weakened.
- Septal perforation: a hole in the septum can occasionally follow septal work, causing whistling or crusting.
- Numbness: the tip and upper lip can feel numb for weeks or months, and sensation usually returns gradually.
- Prolonged swelling: tip swelling can last a year or more, particularly with thick skin.
- Unsatisfactory shape: the result may not match expectations, and a small proportion of patients consider revision.
- Skin changes: visible small blood vessels or discolouration are uncommon.
How risks are reduced
Careful selection is the first step: Mr Nassab will take a full medical history, review medicines and supplements, and discuss your expectations openly. People with bleeding disorders, uncontrolled medical conditions or unrealistic expectations may be advised that surgery is not appropriate, or that it should be delayed until their health is optimised. Stopping smoking and nicotine products well before and after surgery lowers the risk of poor healing. Surgery is performed in a CQC-registered hospital with a consultant anaesthetist. Techniques that preserve or rebuild the internal support of the nose help protect breathing, and conservative changes reduce the chance of irregularities. Following aftercare instructions closely, including keeping your head elevated and avoiding nose blowing, makes a real difference.
What is normal during recovery
Expect a blocked nose, some blood-stained mucus for the first few days, bruising and swelling around the eyes that peaks at around two to three days and fades over two weeks, and mild headaches. The tip may feel stiff and numb. The nose can look swollen, wide or upturned at first, and one side may settle faster than the other. These changes are normal and gradually improve over months. See the rhinoplasty scars guide for how incisions heal.
When to seek help
- Heavy bleeding: a nosebleed that does not slow after 15 to 20 minutes of sitting forward with gentle pressure: contact the surgical team urgently, or call 999 if bleeding is heavy and continuous.
- Fever or spreading redness: a temperature, increasing pain or redness spreading across the nose or cheeks: contact the team the same day.
- Increasing blockage and pain: a rapidly worsening blockage of both nostrils with pain may indicate a septal haematoma: contact the team urgently.
- Calf pain or one-sided leg swelling: see your GP the same day or call NHS 111.
- Chest pain or breathlessness: call 999.
- Vision changes: any change in vision needs emergency assessment at A&E.
Longer-term considerations
The nose continues to change subtly throughout life. Most patients are pleased with their outcome, but if a concern remains once swelling has fully settled, revision may be possible after at least twelve months. Revision is more complex than a first operation. Learn more about revision rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty costs from £8,950 and the £150 consultation fee is separate. Surgery is for adults aged 18 and over.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is rhinoplasty dangerous?
It is a routine operation when performed by a qualified surgeon in an accredited hospital, but all surgery carries risk, which will be discussed in full.
How common are complications after rhinoplasty?
Serious complications are uncommon. Minor issues such as prolonged swelling or small irregularities are more frequent and often settle or can be managed.
Can rhinoplasty damage breathing?
It can if support is weakened, which is why careful technique and preserving the internal structure are important. Breathing can often be improved at the same time.
Does smoking increase the risk?
Yes. Smoking and nicotine reduce blood flow and increase the risk of poor healing and infection. Stopping well before surgery is strongly advised.
