Risks and Complications

Like any cosmetic surgery procedure, rhinoplasty involves an element of risk. The major risks of any surgery are post-operative bleeding, infection, and reactions to medications or anesthesia. Having the procedure done under general anaesthetic carries an additional risk.

Risks that are specific to nose job surgery include:

*Burst blood vessels that can lead to red spots and small scars on the underside of the nose
*The need for a revisionary or secondary procedure

A very small percentage of people may have to have a second minor procedure to achieve the desired results. In many cases this is because they are dissatisfied with the original result. Revision rhinoplasty may also be necessary if the nose is injured in the future.

Temporary post-surgery side effects can include:

-Bruising and swelling

-Post-operative pain

-Black eyes

-Numbness

-Difficulty breathing through your nose

-Scarring

-Heavy nose bleeds (this may require hospital treatment so contact your surgeon if this occurs)

-Temporary loss or reduction in sensitivity to smell (there is a small chance that this could be permanent)

-Damage to the septum

There is also a risk that you may develop post surgery depression, especially if you are not happy with the results of your operation. Because there can be considerable swelling after surgery, it is not easy to tell what the final result will look like for some weeks or even months. It is important to remember that it will take time to fully recover and only then will you be able to see the final result.