PLASTIC & RECONSTRUCTIVE SURGERY
Rhinoplasty
Nose surgery to improve the proportion and balance of the nose in relation to the other features of the face, or to correct breathing difficulties.
About the procedure
Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, can adjust the size, shape or proportion of the nose — reducing or increasing its size, removing a dorsal hump, or altering the shape of the tip or bridge. When performed specifically to correct impaired breathing caused by structural abnormalities, previous trauma or functional problems, this is referred to as septoplasty, and may be considered alongside or instead of cosmetic rhinoplasty depending on your circumstances.
Rhinoplasty is typically performed using either an open or closed technique, depending on what's needed for your specific case, and is usually performed under general anaesthetic.
Open rhinoplasty involves an incision at the base of the columella — the strip of tissue separating the nostrils — allowing the surgeon to lift the nasal skin back to rebuild and reconstruct the cartilage and other internal structures. This approach typically takes two to four hours.
Closed rhinoplasty involves incisions made entirely inside the nostrils. It's considered less invasive than the open technique, with the advantage of no visible external scarring, and generally takes less time than open rhinoplasty.
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Whether rhinoplasty is right for you, and which technique is appropriate, depends on your specific anatomy and goals — whether that's cosmetic, functional, or both. This is assessed at consultation, not before. If breathing difficulties are part of your concern, Mr Holten will discuss whether septoplasty may be relevant, including possible Medicare eligibility for the functional component.
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Your first step is a consultation with Mr Holten to discuss your goals, whether your concern is cosmetic, functional, or both, and which technique — open or closed — is best suited to you. The procedure is performed under general anaesthetic, typically taking two to four hours for open rhinoplasty, or less for closed rhinoplasty.
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As with any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty carries risks. These can include, but are not limited to:
Bleeding, infection, or delayed wound healing
Scarring (external scarring is possible with open technique; closed technique avoids visible scarring)
Changes in nasal sensation, which may be temporary or permanent
Asymmetry or irregularities in shape
Breathing difficulties, which may be temporary or in rare cases persistent
Risks associated with general anaesthesia
The possibility that revision surgery may be needed
Mr Holten will discuss the risks relevant to your specific situation in detail during your consultation, before you decide whether to proceed.
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Swelling and bruising are expected after surgery. A splint is typically fitted to support the nose during initial healing, and nasal packing may be in place for a period afterward, which can make breathing through the nose difficult in the short term. You'll be given written aftercare instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery.
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As with any surgical procedure, individual results vary depending on your anatomy and how your body heals. Your surgeon can only work with your existing bone and cartilage structure, so there are limits to how much the shape of the nose can be changed. Mr Holten can discuss realistic expectations for your specific situation during your consultation.
Costs will be confirmed during your consultation and set out in writing before you proceed. Nothing is finalised until you've had the chance to review it in full.
Arrange Your Consultation
Start with a conversation with our team about your goals and whether this procedure is right for you.
