What is rhinoplasty

Nose reshaping (rhinoplasty) is an operation to change the size or shape of your nose. It’s often called a nose job. You may have nose surgery because you don’t like how your nose looks or want to fix its shape after an injury.

About nose reshaping

You may want to have rhinoplasty surgery to:

• change the size of your nose
• change the shape of your nose, including your nostrils
• change the angle between your nose and top lip
• open up your nasal airways to help you breathe more easily
• fix your nose after it’s been bent or broken by an injury or accident
• Nose surgery to make your nose smaller is called reduction rhinoplasty. Nose surgery to make your nose bigger is called an augmentation rhinoplasty.

If you want an operation for cosmetic reasons (to change how your nose looks), it’s best to hold off until you’re at least 17 years old. This is when your nose should have stopped growing and developing. Everyone’s nose grows differently, so it’s important to discuss this with your GP.

You may be able to have surgery on the NHS to fix your nose after an injury or if you have problems breathing through your nose. But nose shaping for cosmetic reasons isn’t available on the NHS. You’ll need to have this procedure done privately. See the Getting advice about nose reshaping section below for information on the costs of nose surgery.

This information explains nose reshaping surgery in general. Speak to your surgeon for specific advice and information about any procedure you’re considering.

Getting advice about nose reshaping

It’s important not to rush into the decision to have any cosmetic surgery. Make sure you choose a surgeon who’s registered as a specialist with the General Medical Council. They should have specific training in rhinoplasty techniques.

They may be an ENT (ear, nose and throat) surgeon, a plastic surgeon or a maxillofacial (jaw and face) surgeon. Check if they’re registered with the British Association of Aesthetic Plastic Surgeons, The British Association of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeons, The British Society of Rhinoplasty Surgeons or the Facial Plastic Surgery division of ENTUK. Most but not all rhinoplasty surgeons are involved in one or more of these societies.

Research your surgeon

Take time to find out about your surgeon’s experience – ask how many operations they’ve done and how often they perform the surgery. They may be able to show you some photo examples. You may also be able to talk to people they’ve treated.

Know what to expect

Before your operation, it’s vital to discuss what you’re hoping to achieve and what you can realistically expect. Meet the surgeon who’ll be doing your operation, rather than a clinic manager or nurse, so you can discuss all of the pros and cons. Before you go to your appointment, write down what you want from your operation and anything you’re worried about.

Your surgeon will check that a nose reshaping operation is right for you. They’ll take your age, medical history, and current physical and emotional health into account. A good surgeon will ask you to book at least two consultation appointments before you commit to having the operation. And the appointments will be at least a week or two apart.

At your first appointment, explain what you think is wrong with your nose as well as anything you like about it. Tell your surgeon how you want it to look after the operation – photos can help you do this. The surgeon will be clear about what’s achievable for you and the importance of trying to match your expectations to what can be done.

Take your time

Take as much time as you need after your first appointment. You may find it helpful to discuss everything with family or friends. Only go ahead with the operation if you’re happy that your surgeon fully understands what you want and you understand how your nose is likely to look afterwards. Your surgeon may suggest you speak to a clinical psychologist to discuss how the operation may affect you emotionally and socially.