Rhinoplasty, also known as nasal surgery, is a detailed procedure that may be performed for functional or aesthetic reasons. Proper preparation and understanding of the process are important to support safe recovery and informed decision-making.

This article outlines seven important points often discussed during consultation with a qualified specialist. These general considerations can help you prepare for discussions about nasal surgery and understand what the process may involve.

1. Stop Smoking Before and After Surgery

Smoking affects blood flow and can interfere with healing. For this reason, surgeons generally advise patients to stop smoking well before and after surgery.

Reducing exposure to nicotine helps minimise the risk of infection, delayed wound healing, and poor scarring.

Your surgeon may also recommend avoiding certain herbal supplements, vitamins or topical skin treatments before surgery and limiting sun exposure in the lead-up to your procedure.

2. Have Realistic Expectations

Rhinoplasty can alter nasal structure, but every person’s anatomy and skin thickness are different.

A consultation with a FRACS-qualified surgeon allows for a detailed assessment of what changes may be possible.

During this discussion, your surgeon will explain what can realistically be achieved based on your nasal anatomy and facial proportions. This helps ensure expectations align with achievable, evidence-based outcomes before deciding whether to proceed.

3. Understand the Recovery Process

Initial healing after rhinoplasty generally takes several weeks, with swelling and bruising gradually improving during that time.

Some residual swelling can last for months, and the final nasal contour may take 12 months or longer to settle.

Typical post-operative care advice may include:

• Keeping the head elevated while resting.
• Using cool compresses on the cheeks or forehead (not directly on the nose).
• Avoiding strenuous activity, heavy lifting, and nose blowing for several weeks.
• Following the wound-care plan and medication schedule provided by your surgeon.

Each person’s recovery timeline varies. Ongoing follow-up appointments help ensure healing is progressing as expected.

4. Be Aware of the Costs Involved

The total cost of rhinoplasty in Australia varies depending on factors such as the type of procedure, facility fees, anaesthesia, and post-operative care.

Additional expenses may include pre-operative medical tests and time away from work during recovery.

A detailed quotation is usually provided after your consultation, once your specific surgical plan has been established.

 

5. Plan Time Away From Work and Activities

Most patients are advised to take approximately two weeks off work after surgery, although recovery times differ between individuals.

Returning to light duties first may be appropriate before resuming full activity.

It is also important to avoid strenuous exercise or contact sports until your surgeon confirms it is safe.

6. Expect Changes During Early Healing

It is common for swelling and bruising to temporarily affect appearance after rhinoplasty.

The nasal shape and definition evolve gradually as tissues settle, and early swelling may make the nose appear larger or uneven.

These changes are part of the normal healing process, and the final appearance becomes clearer over time.

7. Choosing a Qualified Surgeon

Rhinoplasty should be performed by a specialist surgeon who has completed recognised surgical training and holds the Fellowship of the Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (FRACS) in Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery or Plastic Surgery.

During consultation, the surgeon will review your health history, examine nasal anatomy, and explain the procedure, potential risks, and expected recovery.

Patients can verify a practitioner’s registration and credentials through the AHPRA public register.

Consultation with Dr Shahidi

Dr Shahram Shahidi

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

MED0001167352

Specialist Otolaryngologist (ENT) – Head and Neck Surgeon

Member, Australasian Academy of Facial Plastic Surgery

Dr Shahidi is an Australian-trained specialist with over 20 years of experience in nasal surgery.During consultation, he will assess your individual anatomy, discuss procedural options, outline potential risks, and provide information about preparation and recovery.

Disclaimer:

All surgical and invasive procedures carry risks. Individual results vary. Patients are encouraged to seek a second opinion from an appropriately qualified health practitioner before proceeding with surgery.