Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) | American Society of Plastic Surgeons

Rhinoplasty risks and safety information

Safety regarding Nose Surgery The decision to have nose surgery is extremely personal and you’ll have to decide if the benefits will fulfill your goals and if the risks and potential rhinoplasty complications are acceptable.

Your plastic surgeon and/or staff will explain in detail the risks associated with surgery. You will be asked to sign consent forms to ensure that you fully understand the procedure you will undergo and any risks or potential complications.

The risks of rhinoplasty include:

Rupture of small surface vessels of the nose
Infection
Poor wound healing
Anesthesia risks
Bleeding (hematoma)
Nose asymmetry
Cardiac and pulmonary complications can occur in longer surgical procedures and may be associated with the formation of, or increase in, blood clots in the venous system
Change in skin sensation (numbness)
Nasal airway alterations may occur after a rhinoplasty or septoplasty that may interfere with normal passage of air through the nose
Nasal septal perforation (a hole in the nasal septum) may develop but is rare; additional surgical treatment may be necessary to repair the nasal septum but in some cases, it may be impossible to correct this complication
Pain, which may persist
Unfavorable rhinoplasty scarring
Skin contour irregularities
Skin discoloration and post rhinoplasty swelling
Sutures may spontaneously surface through the skin, become visible or produce irritation that require removal
Possibility of revisional surgery

Be sure to ask questions:

It’s very important to ask your plastic surgeon questions about your nose procedure. It’s natural to feel some anxiety, whether it’s excitement for your anticipated new look or a bit of preoperative stress. Don’t be shy about discussing these feelings with your plastic surgeon.

When you go home

If you experience shortness of breath, chest pains, or unusual heart beats, seek medical attention immediately. Should any of these complications occur, you may require hospitalization and additional treatment.

The practice of medicine and surgery is not an exact science. Although good results are expected, there is no guarantee. In some situations, it may not be possible to achieve optimal results with a single surgical procedure. Another minor surgery may be necessary to reach the intended aesthetic goal.

Be careful

Following your physician’s instructions is key to the success of your surgery. It is important that the surgical incisions are not subjected to excessive force, abrasion, or motion during your recovery from rhinoplasty. Your doctor will give you specific instructions on how to care for yourself.