Rhinoplasty: A Complete Guide to Nose Surgery

Technique

Open vs. Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed rhinoplasty places all incisions inside the nostrils, leaving no visible scarring and often suiting more minor adjustments. Open rhinoplasty adds a small incision across the columella (the strip of skin between the nostrils), giving the surgeon greater visibility and access for complex structural work.

Neither is universally better — the right approach depends on what the nose needs and the surgeon's judgment and training.

Types

Cosmetic, Functional, and Combined

Cosmetic rhinoplasty refines appearance — the bridge, tip, width, or symmetry. Functional rhinoplasty (often with septoplasty) corrects breathing problems like a deviated septum. Many patients have both addressed together in a 'septorhinoplasty,' where insurance may cover the functional portion while the cosmetic part is self-pay.

Candidacy

Who Is a Good Candidate

Good candidates have finished facial growth (generally mid-to-late teens or older), are in good health, don't smoke, and have realistic, specific goals. A thorough consultation assessing nasal anatomy, skin thickness, and breathing is essential before deciding.

Recovery

Recovery Timeline

An external splint is typically worn for about a week. Bruising and swelling around the eyes peak in the first days and largely resolve over two to three weeks, enough to return to normal activities. Subtle swelling at the tip can persist for months, and the truly final result can take up to a year (longer for revision or thick-skinned noses).

Choosing a surgeon

Why Surgeon Choice Matters Most

Rhinoplasty is widely considered among the most demanding cosmetic surgeries — small changes have large effects on both appearance and breathing, and a poor result often requires complex revision. Board certification, specific rhinoplasty volume, and before-and-after results matter far more than choosing on price.

Cost

What Rhinoplasty Costs

The ASPS reports an average surgeon's fee around $7,600, but that excludes anesthesia and facility fees; all-in totals typically land between $7,500 and $18,000, higher in premium markets like New York and California and for complex or revision cases. See our rhinoplasty cost guide for the full breakdown.