Rhinoplasty is surgery that reshapes the nose so it fits your face and, when needed, helps air flow. It can smooth a bump, refine the tip, narrow the bridge, or adjust the nostrils. Some plans also fix a bent septum or weak nasal valves that make breathing hard. Your surgeon studies your skin thickness, bone, and cartilage, then builds a plan that keeps the result natural. The goal is balance, not a “perfect” nose, so your eyes, lips, and chin all look in harmony. Photos and careful measuring guide the design so changes look right from every angle. Most swelling fades in weeks, but fine detail takes months.

There are two main approaches: closed and open. In a closed approach, cuts stay inside the nostrils, so there is no outside scar. In an open approach, a small cut is made on the strip of skin between the nostrils, which can give the surgeon a wider view for complex shaping. Cartilage may be trimmed, moved, or supported with small grafts from the septum, ear, or, rarely, rib. Many modern plans focus on strong support, not just removing tissue, so the nose keeps its shape as you age. If breathing is part of the goal, structural support and septum work are planned at the same time. People with thicker skin often need firmer tip support to show definition.

Because the nose is both beauty and function, planning is detailed. Your surgeon reviews past trauma, allergies, sinus issues, and any nose sprays or meds you use. You may need to stop nicotine and certain supplements that raise bleeding and bruising. Common early effects include stuffy breathing, swelling, bruising under the eyes, and a numb tip. A small splint is often worn for about a week, and you may have light packing or soft supports inside. Serious problems are uncommon but can include infection, bleeding, poor healing, or a change in breathing, which is why follow ups and clear aftercare matter. Final shape keeps refining for 6–12 months.