Rhinoplasty
Reshapes the bridge, tip or nostrils, and can also correct breathing problems. Final shape takes up to a year to settle.
Editorially researched, not medically reviewed. Updated August 30, 2026.
Start with the essentials
General planning ranges for China—not a hospital quote or a personal recovery promise.
Planning range
$3,000–$9,000
Typical downtime
About 1–2 weeks
Result settles
6–12 months
Common anesthesia
Usually general anesthesia
Not sure what applies to you? Review it with a coordinator online.
Free online consultationWhat to review before you decide
Procedure details & recoveryUnderstand what it involves, common approaches and the usual recovery stages.
Rhinoplasty reshapes the bone and cartilage framework of the nose. It is one of the most technically demanding facial procedures because the nose is a three-dimensional structure where small changes are highly visible, and because swelling masks the result for months. When breathing is also a concern, the surgery is often combined with septoplasty to straighten the septum.
Common techniques
- Closed (endonasal) — all incisions inside the nostrils, no external scar, less swelling, but limited exposure
- Open (external) — a small incision across the columella gives direct visibility, standard for complex or revision cases
- Structural grafting — cartilage taken from the septum, ear or rib to support or build up the framework
Typical recovery
Days 1–7
External splint in place; swelling and bruising around the eyes peak around day 3.
Week 1–2
Splint removed. Most people are presentable in public, though the nose still looks swollen and upturned.
Month 1–3
Major swelling subsides. Avoid contact sports and glasses resting on the bridge.
Month 6–12+
Tip swelling resolves last, especially in thicker skin. Judge the result here.
Risks to understandSee the main complications to discuss with your surgeon.
- Revision surgery is needed in roughly 5–15% of cases — the highest revision rate of any facial procedure
- Breathing can get worse, not better, if structural support is over-reduced
- Asymmetry, visible or palpable graft edges, and irregularities of the bridge
- Numbness of the nasal tip, usually temporary but occasionally lasting
- If rib cartilage is used: a chest scar, and cartilage that can warp over time
This is not a complete risk list. Risk changes with technique, anesthesia, treatment extent and your health.
What should I tell the expert?Medical conditions, medication and previous treatment can change your plan.
- Heart disease, high blood pressure, asthma, sleep apnea or other lung conditions
- Diabetes, liver or kidney disease, immune disorders, bleeding or clotting problems
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding, active infection, severe allergies or a history of difficult scarring
- Any previous reaction to anesthesia, surgery or an implanted medical product
- All prescriptions, over-the-counter medicines, blood thinners, vitamins, herbal supplements, nicotine, alcohol and recreational drugs
- Previous nasal surgery, trauma, chronic sinus disease or breathing obstruction
Do not stop medication on your own. Any change must be directed by the prescribing expert, surgeon or anesthesiologist.
Questions for your consultationSave six practical questions for your expert.
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This is a general overview, not medical advice. Technique, price and recovery can only be confirmed after a expert evaluates you.