Otolaryngology | Facial Plastic Surgery Questions Rhinoplasty

What are some dangers of a rhinoplasty?

I'm 21 years old, and I want to have a rhinoplasty because my nose is rather large and it's always made me feel insecure. Is this generally safe though? Can the procedure go wrong? What are the success rates?

4 Answers

Hello,
The Rhinoplasty is a safe surgery.
Thank you for the question. In good hands, this is a safe procedure. Definitely you need to discuss your expectations with your surgeon. Bleeding is a possible complication that is usually prevented with good hemostasis during surgery. Excising to much bone can be another complication. Therefore, discuss your expectations and what bothers you, with your surgeon. All this needs to be addressed prior to the procedure.

Luis A. Laurentin-Perez, MD PhD
Hello,

There are inherent risks to rhinoplasty but in general it is a safe procedure. There are two main concerns with making a nose smaller. First is to maintain function. The nose needs to be able to move air appropriately. This will require a nasal exam looking at the septum and inferior turbinate. If these structures are enlarged or deviated. Nasal obstruction will occur. Second is patient satisfaction. I usually give the 80/20 rule. 80% on how the surgeon structures the nose and 20% to how the patient’s nose heals. Over the years, rhinoplasty techniques have greatly improved and become more reproducible. I hope this helps. If you have further questions I would love to see you for a consultation.

Jason Stubbs
Rhinoplasty is, like many other surgeries, a safe procedure if it is performed properly by a qualified surgeon. All surgeries, however, have potential complications. In rhinoplasty, it is extremely important that both form and function are taken into consideration. Aesthetic improvements have to also preserve or improve nasal function. If done properly, however, rhinoplasty can be a very successful procedure that improves both appearance and functional breathing.