Rhinoplasty is reconstructive surgery of the nose that can be used for either improving aesthetics or function.  The surgery can correct many problems of the nose caused by genetics, trauma, or disease and can fix many aesthetic problems as well. As with any surgery, however, a rhinoplasty procedure does carry some risks. Fortunately, complications are rare and even if they do occur, they are usually minor.

Risks and complications
Many of the complications from rhinoplasty are no different than those related to other types of major plastic surgery procedures. You can always expect temporary swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose after rhinoplasty. Other risks and possible complications you need to be aware of prior to proceeding with surgery include:

  • Risk of infection
  • Adverse reaction to the anesthesia
  • Bleeding
  • Injury or holes to your septum (the wall that separates your nostrils).
  • Skin problems, including skin necrosis (breakdown of skin tissue) and irritation from the tape and bandaging.
  • Loss of smell for a period of time (in rare cases it could be permanent).
  • Nasal blockage caused by swelling inside the nose.
  • Scar tissue could develop and interfere with breathing or cause a whistling noise.

Rhinoplasty procedures are considered safe and hundreds of thousands of rhinoplasty surgeries are performed every year. However, even when a highly skilled surgeon performs your surgery, sometimes your body could react unfavorably or not heal correctly. In most cases, though, cosmetic complaints are the most common “complications” associated with rhinoplasty. Simply put, some patients are not pleased with the result, which may or may not be the surgeons fault.

While complications may be rare, there are some things you should do to ensure the best outcome. First and foremost, it’s crucial to select a skilled surgeon with solid expertise in rhinoplasty. Making sure the assisting staff members are also experienced with rhinoplasty is important as well. Be ready to improve your outcome by educating yourself about the surgery and by closely following your surgeon’s instructions both before and after surgery.

If you are worried about your surgery, the top 5 rhinoplasty questions may provide some helpful insight that will make you feel more confident. Don’t be burdened by anxiety, your surgeon will review with you all of the potential risks and complications that can occur prior to the surgery and answer any questions or concerns you may have.