Overview

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure that modifies the structure of the nose for functional or reconstructive reasons.

It may address structural irregularities, improve nasal airflow, or restore the shape of the nose after injury or trauma.

Each patient’s anatomy and goals are unique, so every surgical plan must be developed individually after thorough consultation.

Common Functional and Structural Indications for Rhinoplasty

1. Nasal Fracture or Trauma

A broken nose may result from an accident, sports injury or physical impact.

Depending on the timing and severity of the injury, treatment options range from manual repositioning (closed reduction) to a structured rhinoplasty to restore nasal alignment and function.

2. Deviated Septum

When the nasal septum (the internal wall separating both sides of the nose) is significantly displaced, it may cause nasal obstruction, snoring or recurrent sinus infections.

In these cases, rhinoplasty may be combined with septoplasty to correct the deviation and improve breathing.

3. Nasal Valve Collapse or Airway Narrowing

A weakened or narrowed nasal valve — often following trauma or prior surgery — can limit airflow.

Functional rhinoplasty techniques may reinforce internal structures to support normal breathing.

4. Post-Traumatic or Congenital Nasal Deformity

Some individuals seek surgery to correct congenital irregularities or post-traumatic changes that affect both appearance and nasal function.

Treatment involves reshaping the underlying bone and cartilage while maintaining airway integrity.

Common Reconstructive or Aesthetic Concerns

While cosmetic motivations must always be secondary to medical appropriateness, rhinoplasty can also address proportional or structural concerns such as:

• Nasal asymmetry or deviation.
• Prominent dorsal hump (nasal bump).
• Wide or bulbous nasal tip.
• Overly narrow nasal bridge.
• Drooping or elongated nasal tip.

Any modification is carefully planned to maintain nasal support and function.

Changes to size or contour are performed only when clinically appropriate and after a complete assessment of facial proportions and skin characteristics.

The Rhinoplasty Process

Rhinoplasty is performed under general anaesthesia in an accredited facility.

Depending on your anatomy, the surgeon may use one of two main approaches:

• Closed rhinoplasty: Incisions are placed inside the nostrils with no visible external scar.
• Open rhinoplasty: A small incision is made across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils) for greater access and precision.

The goal is to improve nasal structure and function while maintaining stability and symmetry.

Recovery

Recovery time varies based on the complexity of surgery and individual healing.

• Initial swelling and bruising usually improve after one to two weeks.
• Internal refinement and subtle changes may take up to 12–18 months to stabilise.
• Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activity and follow post-operative care instructions closely.

Risks and Possible Complications

All surgery carries risk.

Potential complications following rhinoplasty may include:

• Bleeding or infection.
• Scarring or delayed wound healing.
• Changes in nasal sensation.
• Temporary breathing difficulty.
• Septal perforation (a small hole in the nasal wall).
• Asymmetry or contour irregularities.
• Adverse reaction to anaesthesia.

These will be discussed in detail during consultation to ensure fully informed consent.

Consultation and Regulatory Requirements

Before proceeding with any nasal surgery:

• A GP referral is required for all cosmetic rhinoplasty consultations under the Medical Board of Australia Guidelines for Cosmetic Surgery (2023).
• Patients must attend at least two consultations, including one in person with the operating surgeon.
• A minimum seven-day cooling-off period is mandatory between the final consultation and booking surgery.

During consultation, the surgeon will:

• Review your referral and medical history.
• Conduct nasal and facial assessment (including nasendoscopy if indicated).
• Discuss potential benefits, limitations and risks.
• Provide written information to support informed decision-making.

About Dr Shahidi

Dr Shahram Shahidi

BSC(MED)(HON I) MB BS(SYD) FRACS FAAFPS

MED0001167352

Specialist Otolaryngologist (Ear, Nose and Throat) – Head and Neck Surgeon

Fellow, Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained FRACS-qualified ENT surgeon with more than 20 years of experience in nasal, sinus and facial procedures.

He provides comprehensive assessment and treatment planning for patients seeking functional or reconstructive nasal surgery.

Disclaimer:

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Individual results vary.

Before proceeding, you should seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner.