Rhinoplasty (nose job)

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, often called a nose job, nose reshaping, or nose reshaping surgery, remains one of the top cosmetic procedures in the UK amongst both men and women^1,2. For some, it’s about smoothing a bump in or on the nose, or refining the nasal tip. For others, it’s about correcting an injury, improving breathing or restoring facial symmetry. And for many people, it’s simply about wanting their nose to feel more in harmony with the rest of their face.

At Nuffield Health, our consultants bring extensive experience in both cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty. Whether you’re considering a subtle change or a more transformative result, we’re here to guide you through your options with clarity, compassion and clinical expertise.

What can rhinoplasty change about my nose?

Rhinoplasty can address both cosmetic and functional concerns. Common goals include:

• Reducing a dorsal hump – a protruding bump on the bridge of the nose caused by an excess of cartilage and bone in that area.
• Refining or lifting the nasal tip.
• Narrowing the nose bridge.
• Adjusting nostril size or shape.
• Straightening a crooked nose.
• Improving symmetry.
• Correcting breathing difficulties.
• Restoring the nose after injury.

The different types of rhinoplasty

Whether you’re considering to smooth a dorsal hump, refine the tip, straighten a crooked bridge, improve breathing, or restore the nose after injury, rhinoplasty isn’t a single technique. Your surgeon will recommend the approach that best suits your anatomy, goals and expectations.

Open rhinoplasty

A small incision is made across the columella (the skin between the nostrils), allowing full access to the underlying structure.

• Ideal for complex reshaping
• Offers excellent visibility
• Commonly used for revision or tip refinement procedures.

Closed rhinoplasty

All incisions are made inside the nostrils.

• No external scar
• Faster recovery
• Suitable for subtle reshaping.

Preservation rhinoplasty

A newer technique that preserves more of the natural nasal structure.

• Often used for dorsal hump reduction.
• Can reduce swelling and recovery time.
• Increasingly popular for natural-looking results.

Tip rhinoplasty

Focuses solely on refining the nasal tip.

• Can adjust projection, rotation or definition.
• Often performed using open technique for precision.

Ethnic rhinoplasty

Tailored to preserve and respect the patient’s ethnic identity while refining specific features.

• May involve cartilage grafting
• Focuses on balance, not erasing heritage.

Revision rhinoplasty

Performed when a previous rhinoplasty needs correction or refinement.

• More complex due to scar tissue
• Often requires cartilage grafts
• Best performed by highly experienced surgeons.

Who is suitable for rhinoplasty?

You may be suitable if you:

• Are in good general health
• Are unhappy with the shape or function of your nose
• Have breathing difficulties due to structural issues
• Have completed facial growth (usually 18 years of age and above).

Who is not suitable for rhinoplasty?

You may not be suitable if you:

• Are under 18 years of age
• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Smoke or vape (unless you can stop before surgery)
• Have uncontrolled medical conditions.
• Continue to take part in sports that have a high risk of nasal injury (e.g., boxing, rugby, football)

What are the alternatives to rhinoplasty?

Surgical rhinoplasty vs non-surgical rhinoplasty - which is right for me?

Rhinoplasty isn’t always a one-size-fits-all procedure. For some people, surgery offers the most effective and long-lasting results. For others, a non-surgical approach using dermal fillers can provide subtle improvements without the downtime. Understanding the difference can help you decide what aligns best with your goals.

Surgical rhinoplasty

Surgical rhinoplasty reshapes the underlying bone and cartilage. It may be the right choice if you want to:

• Reduce a dorsal hump
• Refine or lift the nasal tip
• Narrow the bridge
• Straighten a crooked nose
• Improve breathing
• Correct structural issues after injury.

Because surgery changes the internal framework of the nose, results are permanent and can address both cosmetic and functional concerns.

Non-surgical rhinoplasty (liquid rhinoplasty)

Non-surgical rhinoplasty uses dermal fillers to smooth small bumps, lift the nasal tip or improve symmetry. It may be suitable if you want to:

• Camouflage a dorsal hump
• Create a straighter looking bridge
• Add subtle definition
• Test a new look before committing to surgery.

Results typically last 9–18 months, depending on the filler used. It cannot reduce the size of the nose or improve breathing, but it can offer a quick, minimally invasive option with no downtime.

Rhinoplasty vs septorhinoplasty (functional rhinoplasty) - which is right for me?

While rhinoplasty focuses on reshaping the external appearance of the nose, septorhinoplasty combines cosmetic changes with functional improvements to the nasal airway.

Rhinoplasty

If you’re looking to change the shape, size or symmetry of your nose without significant breathing issues, rhinoplasty may be your best choice.

Septorhinoplasty (functional rhinoplasty)

Septorhinoplasty straightens the septum and reshapes the nose in one procedure. It’s often recommended if you have:

• A deviated septum
• Long-standing nasal blockage
• Breathing difficulties
• A history of nasal trauma
• Structural issues affecting airflow.

How can I prepare for rhinoplasty?

To support a safe procedure and smooth recovery, your surgeon may advise you to:

• Stop smoking at least 4 weeks before surgery.
• Avoid blood-thinning medications if advised.
• Maintain a healthy weight.
• Arrange time off work.
• Attend your pre-operative assessment.

What happens at a rhinoplasty consultation?

Your surgeon will sit down with you to review your medical history and explore your reasons for wanting a rhinoplasty. This is your opportunity to openly discuss both your aesthetic goals (how you want your nose to look) and any functional goals (such as improving your breathing).

The surgeon will carefully examine your unique facial features and internal nasal structure. This evaluation helps them determine if a rhinoplasty is the safest, most effective approach to achieve your desired results. You may be shown before-and-after photos of previous patients. Looking at these real-world examples helps you visualise potential results and keeps expectations realistic.

Your surgeon will then break down the details of the procedure itself - explaining the techniques they recommend for your specific anatomy, walk you through what the healing process looks like, and honestly discuss any risks so you can make an informed decision.

To ensure a safe surgery and a smooth recovery, please tell your consultant and pre-assessment nurse about all the medications you are taking, including prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, and supplements. They will advise you on whether to continue or temporarily stop taking medicines before and after your surgery.

What should I expect during a rhinoplasty?

On the day of your rhinoplasty, you will first meet with your surgical and anaesthetic team to prepare for the procedure. Your surgeon will carefully mark your nose to guide the precise incisions (cuts).

A rhinoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia and takes around 1 and a half to 3 hours, depending on the technique used.

During rhinoplasty, your surgeon may:

• Refine the nasal tip by adjusting cartilage
• Reduce a dorsal hump
• Straighten or narrow the nasal bones
• Rebuild areas using cartilage grafts
• Improve breathing by correcting internal structures.

The operation may be performed using open or closed techniques (as described above), depending on your goals.

When you wake up from the surgery, you may have:

• A splint on your nose
• Bruising around the eyes
• Swelling for several weeks
• Nasal congestion for several weeks
• If your surgeon uses nasal packing (special gauze placed inside your nose to support healing), it will be either dissolvable or non-dissolvable. They will inform you after your procedure.

How long does it take to recover after rhinoplasty?

Most people return to normal daily activities within 2 weeks, but full healing can take up to 12 months.

Common experiences may include:

• Bruising and swelling
• Nasal congestion
• Mild discomfort
• Exhaustion
• Gradual return of your sense of smell
• Temporary numbness.

General recovery guidance:

• Keep your head elevated
• Avoid bending down
• Avoid blowing your nose for 1 week
• Avoid glasses resting on the bridge for 4–6 weeks
• Avoid strenuous exercise for 4–6 weeks
• Avoid contact sports for 2 months
• Use sunscreen for 6 months.

When you’ll see results

• Initial improvement: 2–3 weeks
• Most swelling gone by 3 months
• Final result achieved within 12 months.

What are the risks and complications of rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is safe when performed by experienced surgeons, but all surgery can carry risks. Possible complications include:

How much does rhinoplasty cost at Nuffield Health?

Pricing varies slightly by location, you can choose your local Nuffield Health hospital to see exact costs and contact details.

Please note that the guide price stated is an approximation of the cost of treatment only. The hospital or your healthcare team will give you a fixed all-inclusive price for the treatment following your initial consultation.