Blepharoplasty (Eyelid Surgery)
Surgical removal of excess skin and fat from the upper and lower eyelids to reduce...
Rhinoplasty
Overview
Rhinoplasty is surgery to change the shape or size of the nose. It may reduce the nose by removing bone and cartilage, build it up using grafts, or alter the tip or bridge. It is sometimes combined with septal surgery where breathing is obstructed.
How it works
In open rhinoplasty a small incision is made across the columella, the strip of skin between the nostrils, allowing the surgeon to lift the skin and work under direct vision. In closed rhinoplasty all incisions are inside the nostrils and no external scar results. Bone may be repositioned and cartilage reshaped or grafted.
What is involved
- Anaesthetic: usually general anaesthetic.
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours.
- Stay: commonly one to two nights in hospital.
Recovery
Around two weeks off work is typical. A splint and stitches are usually removed after about a week. Bruising, swelling and redness largely fade by three weeks, and strenuous exercise can usually resume at four to six weeks. The nose continues to settle for far longer: it can take up to six months for swelling to resolve completely, and the final shape may not be apparent until then.
Risks and limitations
Recognised complications include permanent difficulty breathing through the nose, damage to the cartilage wall between the nostrils, a change or loss of the sense of smell, and heavy nosebleeds. Bruising around the eyes is usual and can last up to three weeks. General surgical risks apply.
Revision surgery is not unusual in rhinoplasty, and a second operation is generally not considered until the nose has fully settled.
Who it may not suit
Surgeons will normally decline to operate before facial growth is complete. Realistic expectations matter more in rhinoplasty than in almost any other procedure: the achievable result is constrained by existing bone, cartilage and skin thickness. Where body dysmorphic disorder is suspected, surgery is not appropriate and psychological assessment should come first.
Information on this page reflects NHS patient guidance on cosmetic procedures. It is general information, not medical advice, and it is not a substitute for an individual assessment by a qualified clinician.
How It Works
1
Surgical Consultation
Detailed assessment including 3D imaging to visualise potential outcomes. Discussion of open vs. closed rhinoplasty techniques.
2
Pre-operative Preparation
Medical clearance, blood tests, and pre-operative instructions. You'll stop certain medications 2 weeks before surgery.
3
Surgery
Performed under general anaesthesia in our accredited surgical suite. The procedure takes 2-3 hours depending on complexity.
4
Recovery & Follow-up
Splint removed at 1 week. Swelling subsides gradually over 3-6 months. Multiple follow-up appointments are included.
Benefits
- Permanent structural changes to nose shape
- Improved facial harmony and balance
- Can improve breathing function
- 3D imaging to preview results
- Performed by fellowship-trained specialist
Recovery Timeline
D1
Day 1: Immediately After
Mild redness and swelling at the treatment area is normal. Apply cool compresses as advised by your practitioner. Avoid touching the treated area.
D3
Days 2-3: Initial Healing
Swelling begins to subside. You may experience mild bruising which can be concealed with makeup. Resume normal daily activities with care.
W1
Week 1: Visible Improvement
Initial results become visible. Any bruising should have resolved. Follow-up check with your practitioner to assess progress and address any concerns.
W4
Week 4: Full Results
Treatment has fully settled with optimal results now visible. Final review appointment to evaluate outcome and discuss maintenance programme.
Is This Treatment Right for You?
Ideal Candidates
- Adults aged 18+ in good general health
- Realistic expectations about treatment outcomes
- Non-smokers or willing to stop before treatment
- Committed to following aftercare instructions
Important Considerations
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Active skin infections or conditions
- Blood thinning medications
- Autoimmune conditions (discuss with practitioner)
Patient Experience
The whole experience from consultation to aftercare was exceptional. The team made me feel completely at ease and the results exceeded my expectations. I would highly recommend Axiom Aesthetics to anyone considering this treatment.
