Rhinoplasty side effects and precautions
Possible side effects and risks after rhinoplasty, precautions during recovery, and the symptoms that mean you should contact the clinic straight away.
Every surgery carries risk, and rhinoplasty is no exception. Knowing the possible side effects, following recovery precautions and noticing unusual symptoms early all matter for a smooth recovery.
Common during recovery
Swelling, bruising, congestion, mild pain and reduced sensation are common for a while after surgery and mostly lessen over time. The course and duration vary.
Possible side effects and risks
- Infection — redness, warmth, increasing pain or discharge
- Bleeding or haematoma — rarely, blood collects and needs further treatment
- Asymmetry or dissatisfaction with the shape — once swelling settles, the shape may differ from what was expected
- Implant-related problems — show-through, movement, thinning skin
- Contracture — tissue tightens and the nose can shorten or look upturned
- Breathing changes — depending on the internal structure, congestion can develop or persist
Likelihood and severity depend on the nose, method and materials, so it is important to have them explained individually at the consultation.
Precautions during recovery
- Don't press on or knock the nose
- Resume glasses, washing, make-up and exercise when advised
- Avoid smoking and alcohol, which slow healing and raise the risk of inflammation
- Tell the clinic in advance about any medications and supplements you take
- Attend your scheduled follow-up visits
Generally, smoking is avoided for about 2–4 weeks, and alcohol, saunas and intense exercise for about 4 weeks. Be sure to mention aspirin and other blood-thinning medicines or supplements before surgery.
Contact the clinic straight away if
- one side suddenly swells a lot or pain keeps getting worse
- you develop a fever or pus-like discharge from the nose
- bleeding doesn't stop
- the skin darkens or the implant shows through
Frequently asked questions
If a side effect occurs, will I need revision surgery? Depending on the cause and severity, the response may be observation, medication, a further procedure or revision. Revision is usually considered after the tissue has settled. See What to check at a revision rhinoplasty consultation.
How can I lower the chance of side effects? The basics are telling the clinic accurately about your nose and history, following recovery precautions and attending follow-ups.