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Facial Aesthetics

What Are the Risks and Complications Associated with Rhinoplasty?

By July 14, 2026No Comments
The Short Answer

Rhinoplasty is generally safe but technically demanding. Common side effects include swelling and bruising. Serious complications are rare but include breathing problems, infection, asymmetry, and revision surgery. Choosing a highly experienced specialist significantly reduces risk.

Considering this at Evolve Your Life? Learn more about Rhinoplasty

Common Side Effects After Rhinoplasty

  • Swelling and bruising: Peaks at 48–72 hours; most visible swelling resolves in 2–3 weeks; subtle residual swelling persists up to 12–18 months.
  • Nasal congestion: Normal as internal tissues swell; resolves as healing progresses.
  • Numbness: Especially at the nasal tip; gradual improvement over months.

Potential Complications of Rhinoplasty

Revision Surgery

Rhinoplasty has a revision rate of approximately 5–15%, the highest of any cosmetic procedure. This reflects the technical complexity of the surgery. Revisions must typically wait 12–18 months after the initial procedure.

Breathing Problems

Rhinoplasty can inadvertently affect nasal airflow. When combined with septoplasty, it can improve breathing. Surgeon experience and functional assessment are essential.

Infection

Uncommon (less than 1%) but treatable with antibiotics. Rarely, deep tissue infection can affect cartilage grafts.

Poor Scarring

Open rhinoplasty leaves a small incision under the nose (the columellar incision). This heals very well in most patients.

Septal Perforation

A hole in the nasal septum is a rare but serious complication, presenting as persistent nasal crusting, whistling, or nosebleed.

How to Reduce Your Risk

  1. Choose a fellowship-trained rhinoplasty specialist — the single most important step
  2. Review before-and-after photos extensively for patients with similar anatomy
  3. Be honest about your goals and ensure your surgeon understands them
  4. Have realistic expectations — subtle improvements to balance are the goal
  5. Follow all pre- and post-op instructions precisely

Frequently Asked Questions

What percentage of rhinoplasty patients need a revision? The revision rate is approximately 5 to 15%, the highest of any cosmetic procedure, reflecting its technical complexity.

Can rhinoplasty affect my breathing? It can, for better or worse; combining rhinoplasty with septoplasty can improve airflow, and choosing a surgeon who assesses function is essential.

How long after rhinoplasty can I get a revision if needed? Revisions typically must wait 12 to 18 months after the initial procedure for tissues to fully heal.

Authoritative Resources

Medical Disclaimer: This article is for educational and informational purposes only. It does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a board-certified plastic or facial plastic surgeon for a personalized evaluation.

 

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Amir Dorafshar, MD, FACS is a globally recognized, board-certified plastic, aesthetic, and reconstructive surgeon specializing in aesthetic surgery, craniofacial reconstruction, microsurgery, and facial gender-affirming procedures.

He earned his medical degree from the University of Manchester, UK, and trained at UCLA, the University of Chicago, and Johns Hopkins Hospital. He previously held the Endowed Chair, Professorship, and Residency & Fellowship Program Director role at Rush University Medical Center.

A facial transplantation pioneer, he has co-authored 230+ peer-reviewed articles and co-edited major surgical textbooks. He is currently Chief of Plastic Surgery at OSF St. Francis Hospital and President & CEO of Evolve Your Life, Chicago.

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