The four most common procedures carried out are:
1. To break the nose and change the shape of it, as well as the nostrils. During this procedure the cartilage is also rearranged.
2. Making the nose bigger, also known as nose augmentation. This is performed by taking cartilage from other parts of the body, such as the ears or hips, to build up part of the nose. This process is commonly known as a graft.
3. To change the angle or direction of the nose and the lips.
4. Making the nose smaller, also known as nose reduction. During this procedure part of the bone or cartilage is removed.
Each operation mentioned above is carried out by making incisions in one of two ways:
- Open rhinoplasty - where an incision is made across the skin between the nostrils.
- Closed rhinoplasty - whereby small incisions are made inside one or both nostrils. This method is known to cause less swelling and does not leave visible scarring as cuts are inside the nose. However, closed rhinoplasty is not always an option.
If you are concerned about what happens to the skin on your nose during and post-surgery, speak to your consultant. However skin on the nose is very adaptable and can expand or shrink to its new shape.
Overall, rhinoplasty surgery takes around 2-3 hours on average to complete. Patients would expect to stay in hospital for 1-3 nights for immediate recovery and aftercare.

Recovery

After you undergo surgery on your nose, you will need ample time off work and normal activities to rest and recover.
Patients should expect to have around 1 to 2 weeks off work.
However, to see the full effects of your nose job it will take approximately 3-4 months, with swelling lasting up to 6 months on average.
Following surgery and your stay in hospital, you will leave with dressings on your nose and in each nostril.
A splint is usually held over your nose and you may be unable to breathe through your nose at first.
Regular painkillers are provided to ease any discomfort or pain.
Although your surgeon will advise you on the necessary aftercare in a recovery plan tailored to you, driving is often ruled out for all patients post-surgery. Patients will be able to drive within 4-5 days on average.
What to expect in recovery:
- After the first week your stitches will be removed. If your surgeon used dissolvable stitches, they will dissolve within this time-frame.
- After the first month any swelling, bruising or redness may subside and you can return to light activities, such as swimming.
- After 2 months you will be able to return to more strenuous exercise and activities.
As with all surgery, it is important to rest and recover to make sure you get the most out of your procedure and not jeopardise the results.
You should aim to rest in bed for at least 2-3 days after you have returned home with your head propped up to help reduce any swelling.
Patients are advised to avoid bathing in hot water, wetting the splint, blowing your nose and sneezing through your mouth. Not sneezing through your nose will keep pressure off it and aid recovery.
If possible, try to avoid areas that may be dusty or contain smoke and stay away from contact sports.