# Nose Job (Rhinoplasty)

> **Rhinoplasty** surgery to reshape and improve the appearance of the nose

- Canonical page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/nose-job
- Category: [Facial Surgery](https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure-category/facial-surgery)
- Procedure directory: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedures.md
- Medical disclaimer: https://doctormaresky.co.za/medical-disclaimer


## Overview

A **nose job** or **Rhinoplasty** is one of the most common cosmetic procedures done today. This procedure involves changing the shape of the nose for either cosmetic or medical reasons. Often patients suffering from obscured nasal passages undergo a rhinoplasty to improve their breathing.

## The procedure

Rhinoplasty consists of modifying either, or both, bone and cartilage. The upper part of the nose is made up of bone and lower is cartilage. The surgeon will take into account the patient's facial features when planning the nose job.

## Preparation

- **Timeline:** **2-4 weeks** before surgery

### Medical tests

- **Complete blood count (CBC)**
- **ECG if over 40 years old**
- **Chest X-ray if indicated**
- **COVID-19 test if required**

### Medications

#### Medications to discuss stopping

- **Stop** aspirin and blood thinners **2 weeks** prior
- **Stop** NSAIDs (ibuprofen, naproxen) **1 week** prior
- **Stop** herbal supplements (ginkgo, garlic, ginseng) **2 weeks** prior
- **Stop** vitamin E supplements **1 week** prior

#### Medications to continue

- **Continue** essential medications as advised by **Dr Maresky**
- **Inform Dr Maresky** of all current medications during consultation

### Lifestyle

- **Smoking:** **Quit** smoking at least **4 weeks** before surgery to promote proper healing and reduce complications

- **Alcohol:** **Avoid** alcohol **48 hours** before surgery

- **Fasting:** No food or drink after midnight the night before surgery (**NPO after midnight**)

### Arrangements

- **Arrange** transportation home after surgery - you cannot drive
- **Arrange** for a responsible adult to stay with you for the first **24-48 hours**
- **Prepare** recovery space at home with comfortable clothing and easy access to essentials
- **Stock** up on prescribed medications and recommended supplies
- **Arrange** time off work (**1-2 weeks** recommended, varies by procedure)
- **Plan** for help with childcare and household tasks during recovery

## Recovery and aftercare

Post surgery the patient will be kept with their head raised above their chest, to reduce bleeding and swelling. The patient may feel congested due to splints placed inside the nose during the surgery. Swelling can take up to **a year** to completely diminish as the nose constantly changes shape with age.

## Expected results

Rhinoplasty outcomes depend on individual anatomy and goals, and may address facial proportion and breathing concerns where appropriate.

## Frequently asked questions

### How long does nose job recovery take?

Initial recovery takes **1-2 weeks** with splint removal. Swelling gradually subsides over several months, with final results visible after **6-12 months**.

### Will rhinoplasty improve my breathing?

Functional rhinoplasty can improve breathing by correcting structural issues like deviated septum or enlarged turbinates.

### What age is appropriate for nose surgery?

Rhinoplasty is typically performed after nasal growth is complete, usually around age **16-17** for girls and **17-18** for boys.

### What is the ideal age for rhinoplasty?

Candidates should be over the age of **17 years** when facial growth is complete, have realistic expectations, and have no medical conditions that would hinder healing.

### How long does recovery take?

Initial recovery takes about **1-2 weeks**, but final results may take up to **a year** as swelling gradually subsides.

### Will there be visible scars?

Most rhinoplasty procedures are performed through internal incisions, leaving no visible external scars.

### Can rhinoplasty fix a broken nose?

Yes, rhinoplasty can correct deformities from previous injuries and improve both appearance and function of the nose.

## Indicative pricing

- Estimate: R140,000 to R180,000 ZAR
- Cost factor: Open vs closed technique
- Cost factor: Primary vs revision surgery
- Cost factor: Grafting complexity
- Detailed cost page: https://doctormaresky.co.za/cost/nose-job
- Final pricing is confirmed after an individual consultation.

## Consultation and contact

- Consultation: https://doctormaresky.co.za/procedure/general-consultation
- Contact: https://doctormaresky.co.za/contact