Rhinoplasty risks: A realistic look at nose jobs

Let’s discuss the sets of potential risks and what they include.

Risks associated explicitly with rhinoplasty

Some risks are specifically associated with the rhinoplasty procedure and the things that happen during the operation. The risks and complications of this cosmetic surgery can be permanent or temporary. These risks can include:

Aesthetic issues: Even though the main purpose of rhinoplasty is to improve appearance, it also possesses the risks of aesthetic issues. These rhinoplasty risks can be:

• Unsatisfactory results
• Nasal asymmetry after rhinoplasty
• Nasal skin discoloration
• Scarring
• Need for a revision surgery

Changes in the sense of smell: An unsuccessful nose surgery can cause problems to the smell system. The problems can vary from small changes in the sense of smell to not being able to sense anything at all.

Changes in nasal skin sensation: The surgery can lead to pain and numbness on the skin of the nose. This numbness can be permanent or last for a few months after surgery.

Breathing difficulties: Among the major problems of rhinoplasty can be the risks of breathing difficulties. Rhinoplasty can affect the breathing system by damaging some structures during the operation. 

The possibility of nasal septal perforation: This is an uncommon problem following rhinoplasty and septoplasty in which a hole appears in the nasal septum. Additional surgery to repair the perforation is needed.

Risks related to cartilage and bone

Risks of damage to the cartilage and nasal bone are among the most common complications. As a result of modifying the nasal structure, problems with the cartilage and bone can happen. 

Nasal asymmetry: A crooked nose after rhinoplasty is among the risks of an unsuccessful nose job. This can happen due to improper shaping of the nasal septum. Losing the support and strength can cause septal deviation and consequent breathing problems. Revision surgery will be required to address this problem.

Nasal bridge collapse: Another risk associated with rhinoplasty is the chance of the collapsing of the nasal bridge In case of an over-reduction of the nasal septum. This situation is also known as saddle nose deformity. Inadequate cartilage and lack of structural support can lead to the collapse of the nasal wall.

Nasal valve collapse: The nasal valve is the narrowest part of the airways of the nose. Nasal valve collapse happens when it becomes narrower as a result of the cartilage becoming weak after rhinoplasty. This leads to nasal obstruction, breathing issues, and the need for revision rhinoplasty.

Polly beak deformity: In this deformity, there is excessive tissue above the nasal tip and a convex dorsum. It can happen because of the improper way of addressing a dorsal hump. Having rhinoplasty with an inexperienced surgeon increases the chances of Polly beak deformity.

Rare risks

There are some risks associated with rhinoplasty that are extremely rare. In rare situations, nose surgery can lead to problems such as blindness or brain damage. If during the surgery, one vessel or nerve related to the eye is injured the chances of blindness increase. Brain damage due to lack of oxygen under anesthesia is another rare yet dangerous risk.

General risks of a major rhinoplasty

Some common risks may occur after every invasive and major surgery. These complications will probably happen after the rhinoplasty procedure as well. Yet the level of severity may vary between patients based on their health condition and the surgeon’s experience. The general risks of rhinoplasty are as followed:

Bleeding and hematoma: This is a procedure that involves altering nasal structures via incisions, cartilage removal, grafts, implants, or bone rasping. They can all lead to bleeding and eventual bruising after the surgery. Hematoma is almost always associated with swelling. 

Infection: Whenever an incision is made on the skin, the risk of infection appears. When the skin is cut open and different layers are detached, bacteria can enter the body and find their way through the bloodstream. However, the chances of infection are relatively low.

Anesthesia risks: The risks of problems associated with anesthesia happening after a nose job can be quite high. They can vary from minor inconveniences to life-threatening situations. In addition to the anesthesiologist’s experience, the patient’s body response can contribute to the occurrence of these problems. 

The risks of anesthesia include:

• Nausea and vomiting
• Allergic reaction to anesthetic medications.
• Sore throat
• Dental injury
• Postoperative delirium or cognitive dysfunction
• Breathing problems during and after surgery
• Injury to nerves
• Awareness during surgery under anesthesia
• Stroke

Financial risks

The common questions about rhinoplasty risks are “how safe is rhinoplasty” or “is rhinoplasty dangerous?”. But there are also financial risks associated with a nose job. 

There may be hidden costs for the procedure, that may collide with your budget. Sometimes unexpected complications after surgery may require immediate intervention. The medical intervention may cost you more than you would expect. Ask about all possible expenses during your rhinoplasty consultation. It will give you an estimation of how you can manage your finances.

Psychological risks

Among the risks of nose surgery, psychological problems are common. If the patient is not pleased with the final aesthetic outcome, they get disappointed. This can increase the risk of psychological issues such as depression. To prevent such incidents, it’s important to find a skilled nose surgeon with good communication skills and manage your expectations.

How to manage expectations

Every surgery possesses risks to some extent. You should know the rhinoplasty risks before you undergo this cosmetic surgery. Consult your surgeon and ask about all the possible risks of rhinoplasty. This will help you have realistic expectations and be prepared for what you might face. Having realistic expectations leads to less post-op disappointment and depression, and can eventually help you handle the situation more wisely. 

Factors that increase rhinoplasty risks

Some factors can contribute to increasing the risks of rhinoplasty. By managing these factors, you can reduce the risks and post-op complications to high extents. To be able to manage the factors, you should know them first:

• Smoking
• Medications
• Health conditions
• Surgeon’s experience and skill

Smoking

Smoking affects the circulation system and oxygen delivery to the tissues. that’s why it is a risk factor for excessive post-op bleeding, delayed healing, and tissue death. This effect on the blood flow can even cause problems during the surgery.

Medications

Some medications interfere with the natural healing process and may elongate the recovery time. Some medicines can also cause post-op bleeding and swelling. In more severe cases, some medications can interfere with anesthetic medicines and cause life-threatening issues.

Health conditions

Some underlying health conditions may greatly increase the risks of complications of rhinoplasty. These health conditions are:

• Bleeding disorders
• Uncontrolled diabetes
• Cancer
• Mental disorders
• Obstructive sleep apnea
• Cardiovascular diseases

Surgeon’s experience and skill

Undeniably practice makes perfect. If the nose surgeon is not experienced or skilled enough the chances of successful outcomes decrease while the risks increase. An experienced rhinoplasty surgeon starts the procedure even before the operation. A doctor with less experience is still capable of carrying out a fruitful procedure, but the risks of problems are high. The use of proper surgical techniques plays a crucial role in the final aesthetic results. An inexperienced surgeon may not be able to perform all types of rhinoplasty and surgical techniques. This can lead to unsatisfactory results and other issues.

How to minimize rhinoplasty risks

By following some easy steps, the risks of rhinoplasty can be diminished. A great percentage of rhinoplasty risks can be reduced by the active participation of the patient in the process. But how? Let us explain!