Male Rhinoplasty

Male rhinoplasty is being sought for functional and aesthetic reasons. If you’re considering the procedure, it’s important to understand that this is an important decision requiring careful thought and evaluation. Note that the procedure can only move forward if a qualified specialist determines that you are eligible based on your unique needs and circumstances.

In this guide, we explore how male rhinoplasty works, the potential risks involved and the recovery journey.

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that aims to alter the size, shape or proportions of the nose. It may be performed to correct issues from an injury, resolve birth defects, improve breathing or achieve cosmetic enhancements.

Whether you’re considering rhinoplasty for functional or cosmetic reasons, selecting an experienced surgeon is essential. With computer imaging technology and the expertise of skilled surgeons, patients can potentially benefit from more precise and tailored results.

Before undergoing rhinoplasty, you’ll need at least two pre-operative consultations with your surgeon, one of which must be in person for a thorough assessment and face-to-face consent.

During your consultation, the surgeon will provide detailed educational materials to help you make an informed decision about the procedure and assess whether it’s something you’re prepared and suitable for. This information will cover:

• The details of the surgical procedure, including the location where the surgery will be performed
• Expected short-term and long-term outcomes
• Potential risks and complications, both immediate and long-term
• Any risks specific to your individual health, particularly if you have comorbidities
• The possibility of requiring revision surgery or additional treatments
• Recovery timelines and specific post-operative care requirements

After these consultations, a mandatory seven-day cooling-off period is required before scheduling your surgery.

Risks and side effects of male rhinoplasty

Like any surgical procedure, male rhinoplasty comes with potential side effects, which will be explained in detail during your initial consultation. These may include:

• Pain or discomfort
• Swelling and bruising around the nose and eyes
• Nasal congestion
• Temporary numbness in the nose
• Minor bleeding

• An adverse reaction to the anaesthesia

Additionally, risks associated with rhinoplasty may include:

• Difficulty breathing through the nose
• Prolonged pain, discolouration or swelling
• Infections
• Poor healing of incisions or noticeable scarring
• Changes in sensation, such as persistent numbness
• Asymmetry or imbalance in nasal appearance
• Nasal septal perforation (a hole in the septum), which might require further surgery to repair — some cases may be challenging to fully correct.
• Alterations in the sense of smell
• Ruptured blood vessels on the nose’s surface
• Subtle changes in vocal sound, especially when singing or speaking

If you experience any of the above after your procedure, contact your surgeon or healthcare provider right away.

Suitability considerations for male rhinoplasty

Certain factors and conditions may make some individuals ineligible for rhinoplasty due to increased surgical risks or potential complications:

• Underlying medical disorders — These include uncontrolled diabetes, heart or lung diseases, autoimmune disorders, blood clotting issues and a history of excessive bleeding.

• Obstructive sleep apnoea — A condition characterised by recurring episodes of airway blockage and disrupted sleep, it may increase the risk of complications during and after surgery.

• Recent prior rhinoplasty — Patients who have had previous rhinoplasty and would like a revision procedure are advised to wait at least 18 months before evaluating the final results and considering a revision procedure.

• Age restrictions — Rhinoplasty is typically not recommended for individuals with developing facial structures, generally girls under 18 and boys under 18, unless there are urgent medical reasons.

During your initial appointment, your surgeon will assess your medical history to identify any factors that may make you ineligible for rhinoplasty. If you are not eligible, your surgeon will discuss alternative treatments or approaches to address your concerns and help you achieve your goals safely.

Recovery and aftercare

Following your surgeon’s instructions carefully can help minimise discomfort and complications.

• Immediately after surgery
  Post-surgery, you will need to rest in bed with your head elevated above your chest. This position helps reduce swelling and bleeding. It’s common to experience nasal congestion due to swelling or the presence of internal splints placed during the procedure.
• Splints and bandages
  Internal splints or bandages are typically left in place for 7 to 8 days after the surgery. An external splint is also applied to support and safeguard the nose during the initial healing phase.
• Managing swelling and drainage
  You may notice minor bleeding or mucus mixed with old blood for a few days after surgery and/or once the dressings are removed. A small gauze pad may be taped under your nose to absorb any drainage.Swelling and bruising around the eyes may persist for two to three weeks while swelling in the nose can take up to 18 months to fully resolve.
• Activity restrictions
  Follow these guidelines for several weeks after surgery:
  • Avoid strenuous activities such as jogging, aerobics or heavy lifting.
  • Opt for short, lukewarm showers from the chest down while nasal bandages are in place.
  • Refrain from blowing your nose.
  • When sneezing or coughing, keep your mouth open to reduce nasal pressure.