Rhinoplasty (Nose Surgery)

What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty (commonly called a “nose job”) is a surgical procedure designed to change the shape of the nose or reshape nasal structures for both cosmetic appearance improvement and/or functional breathing enhancement—it’s one of the most frequently performed plastic surgeries globally. The goal is to enhance facial harmony and nasal proportions, making the nose blend naturally rather than stand out.

Reasons Why Rhinoplasty is Popular

Rhinoplasty is one of the most popular plastic surgeries because it can transform both how you look and how you breathe, boosting confidence and quality of life.
Many people are unhappy with their nose size, shape, or how it fits their face—rhinoplasty can remove humps, narrow wide noses, lift droopy tips, refine bulbous tips, straighten crooked noses, adjust nostril shape, and correct asymmetry, making your nose blend naturally with your facial features rather than distract from them. 

As you age (50s-70s), your nose tip droops and humps become more noticeable, so rhinoplasty provides a more youthful appearance. 

Advantages of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty can transform both how you look and how you breathe, giving you natural-looking results and improved quality of life.

• Better facial balance – The right nose size and shape makes your chin look slimmer and your face more proportionate and attractive
• Fix specific concerns – Remove bumps, make your nose narrower or shorter, straighten a crooked nose, refine the bridge, lift a droopy tip, and correct unevenness
• Improved side profile – A sharper, more defined nose creates an attractive curve when viewed from the side
• Combat aging effects – Lift drooping tips and remove bumps that become more noticeable as you age (especially beneficial in your 50s-70s)
• Boost confidence – Feel significantly more confident in social and professional situations
• Natural, subtle results – Friends notice you look better overall but won’t pinpoint exactly what changed—you’ll still look like yourself, just enhanced

Types of Rhinoplasty Techniques

1. Closed Rhinoplasty

Closed Rhinoplasty (Endonasal Approach)

Closed rhinoplasty is a surgical technique where all incisions are hidden completely inside your nostrils—no visible scars on the outside of your nose.

How It Works:

• All incisions are made inside your nostrils (no external cuts)
• Surgeon works through small internal incisions to reshape cartilage and bone
• Offers more limited visibility than open approach but faster procedure (often 30-60 minutes for simple cases)

Key Advantages:

• No external scarring – All incisions hidden inside your nose
• Faster recovery – Less swelling and quicker healing time
• Less invasive – Fewer incisions mean lower risk of infection and complications
• More affordable – Generally lower cost than open technique

Best For:

• Minor cosmetic adjustments – Refining nasal tip, smoothing small bumps, correcting small asymmetries
• Simple reshaping – Small modifications to nasal bridge without major restructuring
• Faster recovery priority – Patients who want to return to normal life quickly
• Good nasal structure – Those with already decent underlying framework needing refinement

Limitations:

• Not suitable for complex cases – Limited visibility makes substantial reshaping, severe asymmetry correction, or revision surgery more difficult
• Restricted scope – Cannot handle major restructuring or complex modifications as precisely as open approach
• Potential for revision – Limited view may increase chance of subtle irregularities requiring future touch-ups

 

2. Semi-Open Rhinoplasty

Semi-Open Rhinoplasty (Hybrid Approach)

Semi-open rhinoplasty is a hybrid technique combining the best of both closed and open approaches—giving your surgeon better access to nasal structures while keeping scars minimal and recovery faster.

How It Works:

• Most incisions are inside your nostrils (like closed technique)
• One additional very small incision at the base of your columella (tissue between nostrils)
• Gives surgeon better visibility and control than closed approach
• Results in less swelling and faster recovery than full open approach

Key Advantages:

• Minimal scarring – Only a very small external scar that fades until barely visible
• Enhanced safety – Allows placement of support grafts (ear cartilage or tissue) beneath tip to prevent implant complications like perforation or penetration
• Better tip refinement – Can lengthen, straighten, upturn, or refine your nasal tip more precisely than closed technique
• Faster recovery – Less pain and shorter healing time compared to full open approach
• Balanced approach – Premium safety and control without the extended recovery of open rhinoplasty

Best For:

• Patients with thin nasal tissue – Need extra support to prevent complications
• Revision cases – Those who previously had rhinoplasty needing correction
• Droopy or downturned tips – Tips needing lifting, lengthening, or refinement
• Detailed adjustments – Cases requiring precise tip or bridge work but not complex enough for full open surgery
• Safety-conscious patients – Those prioritizing both excellent results and minimized risks

3. Open Rhinoplasty

Open Rhinoplasty (External Approach)

Open rhinoplasty is a surgical technique that provides maximum visibility and access to your nasal structures through a small external incision—it’s the gold standard for complex cases requiring significant reshaping.

How It Works:

• Small incision across your columella (narrow tissue strip between nostrils) plus internal incisions
• Skin is gently lifted to give surgeon “super clear view” of all bones and cartilage underneath
• Allows complete access to reshape your entire nasal structure with precision

Key Advantages:

• Maximum precision and control – Full visibility allows detailed, lasting modifications for predictable results
• Best for complex cases – Ideal for significant reshaping, severe asymmetry correction, repairing nasal fractures or trauma
• Perfect for revision surgery – Better access to scarred or distorted anatomy from previous procedures
• Structural reinforcement – Easy placement of support grafts (cartilage from septum, ear, or rib) to prevent future collapse and ensure long-term stability
• Superior tip control – Maximum control for refining tip shape, position, and projection
• Minimized cartilage distortion – Less pressure on cartilage during procedure compared to closed techniques

Best For:

• Major reshaping – Significant changes to nose size, shape, or structure
• Severe asymmetry – Fixing pronounced unevenness or crookedness
• Revision cases – Correcting problems from previous rhinoplasty
• Complex structural issues – Collapsed nasal structures, trauma repair, or breathing problems requiring extensive work
• Patients prioritizing results over recovery time – Those willing to accept slightly longer healing for maximum precision

Disadvantages:

• Small external scar on columella (usually fades well over time and barely visible)
• Longer recovery – More swelling and slightly extended healing period (typically few extra weeks)
• More extensive procedure – Takes longer in surgery and involves more post-operative care
• Higher cost – Requires specialist surgeon expertise

Comparison Table

Rhinoplasty Techniques Comparison

Choosing the right technique depends on your specific goals, nasal structure, and recovery priorities. Here’s how the three approaches compare:

Feature	Closed Rhinoplasty	Semi-Open Rhinoplasty	Open Rhinoplasty
Incisions	All inside nostrils (completely hidden)	Inside nostrils + very small incision at columella base	External incision across columella + internal incisions
Visible Scarring	✓ None	Minimal (tiny scar that fades until barely visible)	Small external scar on columella (usually fades well)
Recovery Time	✓ Fastest (minimal swelling)	Moderate (faster than open)	Longest (more swelling, extended healing)
Cost	✓ Most affordable	Moderate	Highest
Best For	• Minor adjustments<br>• Smoothing small bumps<br>• Slight tip refinement<br>• Small asymmetries<br>• Quick recovery priority	• Thin nasal tissue<br>• Revision cases<br>• Droopy/downturned tips<br>• Detailed tip work<br>• Need for support grafts<br>• Balance of precision + recovery	• Major reshaping<br>• Severe asymmetry<br>• Complex revisions<br>• Trauma repair<br>• Collapsed structures<br>• Maximum precision needed
Limitations	Cannot handle complex reshaping, severe asymmetry, or major structural work	Not suitable for most complex cases requiring maximum structural access	Longer recovery, external scar, more swelling, higher cost

At Rattinan Clinic, We Specialize In:

✓ Closed Rhinoplasty – Perfect if you want minor refinements with fastest recovery and no visible scars

✓ Semi-Open Rhinoplasty – Our preferred technique for most patients needing detailed work with enhanced safety, support grafts, and faster recovery than full open surgery

We do not offer Open Rhinoplasty because we prioritize faster recovery, minimal scarring, and less extensive procedures. For the rare cases requiring full open surgery, we’ll honestly assess your needs and refer you to appropriate specialists.

Which Technique Is Right For You?

During your consultation, we’ll evaluate your:

• Specific goals and concerns
• Nasal structure and tissue thickness
• Previous surgeries (if any)
• Recovery timeline preferences
• Budget considerations

Then recommend the best approach to achieve your desired results safely and effectively.

How Many Types of Silicone and Nose Augmentation Materials

Types of Silicone and Nose Augmentation Materials

Rhinoplasty uses various materials to reshape and support your nose. Choosing the right combination depends on your nasal structure, skin thickness, and desired results.

Silicone Implants (For Bridge/Dorsum Augmentation)

Silicone is the most popular synthetic material for raising your nasal bridge—durable, flexible, and available in different textures:

Type	Texture	Best For	Result
Korean Silicone	Soft, easy to mold	Natural, soft nose shape	Softer, more subtle appearance
Japanese Silicone	Medium firmness (balanced)	Dimensional yet soft look	Balance between natural and defined
American Silicone	Dense, firm, holds shape well	Sharp, projecting tip	Crisp, well-defined profile

Important: Your surgeon chooses silicone based on your original nasal structure and desired aesthetic—not just brand origin. Different textures suit different goals.

Grafts and Support Materials (For Structure, Tip, and Safety)

To refine your tip, provide structural support, and prevent complications like implant penetration, we use cartilage and tissue:

A. Autogenous Grafts (Your Own Body Tissue) ✓ Safest, no rejection risk

Source	Harvested From	Best Uses
Septal Cartilage	Inside your nose (septum)	Most common—small changes, tip refinement, structural support
Ear Cartilage	Your ear (concha)	Tip augmentation (natural curve fits nasal tip perfectly), butterfly graft for opening internal nasal valve
Rib Cartilage	Your rib	Larger changes needing substantial material (rare, for complex cases)
Dermal Fat Graft	Coccyx/tailbone area	Adds softness and cushioning, prevents direct contact between silicone and tip skin

B. Alloplastic Materials (Artificial/Processed)

Material	Purpose	Benefits
Artificial Tissue/Dermal Matrix	Tip augmentation	Increases thickness between tip skin and silicone implant, reduces risk of perforation or penetration
HA Filler (Hyaluronic Acid)	Non-surgical rhinoplasty	Temporary (12-18 months), camouflages small bumps, refines symmetry, slightly raises tip—no incisions
Liquid Injectable Silicone (LIS)	Nonsurgical revision	Permanent filler for small indentations/irregularities on bridge after surgery (~20% of patients may need)

C. Specialized Graft Types (Shaped during surgery for specific functions)

• Spreader Grafts – Repair obstructed internal nasal valves, widen narrow nasal passages
• Extended Shield Graft – Enhance tip definition for patients with thick skin
• Alar Batten Grafts – Straighten buckled cartilage, open collapsed external nasal valves (mainly revision cases)
• Columellar Strut (C-strut) – Support tip position, prevent drooping after surgery

At Rattinan Clinic, We Customize Your Materials:

During consultation, we’ll recommend the optimal combination based on:

• Your current nasal structure and skin thickness
• Your aesthetic goals (natural/soft vs. sharp/defined)
• Safety considerations (preventing complications)
• Whether you need functional improvements (breathing)

Most patients receive: Silicone implant for bridge elevation + ear or septal cartilage + protective tissue layer at tip for safety and natural results.

 

How Do Korean / Japanese / American Silicones Differ?

Silicone for nose augmentation comes in different textures and firmness levels—often categorized by origin (Korean, Japanese, American)—each designed to achieve specific aesthetic results. The right choice depends on your natural nasal structure and desired look, not just brand origin.

Quick Comparison:

Silicone Type	Look You’ll Get	Best For
Korean Silicone	Natural, soft, “sweet” nose<br>Gentle curves, subtle enhancement	Want a naturally soft, feminine appearance
Japanese Silicone	Balanced with dimension<br>Defined but still maintains softness	Want noticeable improvement but still gentle, not too sharp
American Silicone	Sharp, high projection<br>”Western-style” defined bridge and tip	Want maximum definition, crisp contours, prominent nose

 

Which Nose Shape Problems Should Be Corrected with Augmentation?

1. Flat Nose, Undefined Bridge

Why Correct a Flat Nose or Undefined Bridge with Rhinoplasty?

A flat nose or undefined bridge is one of the most common concerns patients seek to correct because it significantly impacts facial balance, proportions, and confidence. 

The problem: a flat nose lacks height and projection, making your entire face appear flat and lacking dimension—when viewed from the side, there’s no natural projection line or definition. 

The solution: rhinoplasty augments the nasal bridge using silicone implants or cartilage grafts (from septum, ear, or rib) to add height, create clear contour, and provide proper projection. This is especially common for Asian patients with “flat nose, undefined bridge” characteristics.

The benefits: your nose transforms from undefined and distracting to beautifully balanced—creating facial focus and harmony, making your face appear more oval and dimensional, dramatically improving your side profile with an attractive curve, looking better in photos from all angles, making makeup application easier, and most importantly, significantly boosting your self-confidence in social and professional situations. 

At Rattinan Clinic, we specialize in natural-looking augmentation customized to your facial structure using safe materials (silicone + protective cartilage/tissue at tip) and semi-open or closed techniques for faster recovery—transforming your flat nose into a beautifully defined, harmonious feature that enhances your natural beauty without looking overdone.

2. Short, Upturned, or Hooked Tip

Why Correct a Short, Upturned, or Hooked Tip with Nose Augmentation?

Short or upturned tips (over-rotated) make your face look unbalanced, harsh, or too strong—rhinoplasty lengthens the nose and achieves proper tip rotation using the semi-open technique with cartilage grafts (columellar strut/C-strut) that support and reposition the tip by lengthening the nasal structure for balanced, harmonious proportions. 

Droopy or hooked tips (under-rotated/ptotic) exaggerate the appearance of dorsal humps, make your nose look disproportionately large, and give your face a sad or aged appearance—especially problematic as you age (50s-70s) when gravity causes tips to droop several millimeters. Rhinoplasty corrects this by lifting and rotating the tip upward, removing humps, and adding structural support (C-strut cartilage grafts) to prevent future drooping, creating a more youthful, attractive profile. 

Tip correction is critical for satisfaction: under-rotated tips are the most common complaint among dissatisfied rhinoplasty patients (29.5% males, 56.4% females), confirming proper tip rotation is essential. 

At Rattinan Clinic, we use the semi-open approach for precise tip work, supporting your tip safely with cartilage grafts (from septum, ear, or rib) to ensure long-term stability and maintain the corrected position—transforming your short, upturned, or droopy tip into a beautifully balanced, youthful feature that enhances your entire facial profile.

3. Wide Nostrils, Flared Nasal Base

Why Correct Wide Nostrils or Flared Nasal Base with Nose Augmentation?

Wide nostrils or a flared nasal base are common concerns, especially for Asian patients, because they make your face look unbalanced, lacking compactness, and disproportionate with your forehead and chin. 

The aesthetic standard: your nasal base shouldn’t extend more than 2-3 millimeters beyond the inner corners of your eyes—if it does, correction enhances facial harmony. 

The solution: while primary rhinoplasty (silicone augmentation) addresses your bridge and tip projection, correcting nostril width requires a focused procedure called Alarplasty (nostril reduction)—small incisions in natural nostril creases adjust nasal wing width and nostril size, making your nose appear slimmer and more refined. 

This is typically performed simultaneously with bridge/tip augmentation for complete results: surgically narrowing the nasal base while augmenting with silicone creates a sharper, more defined nasal contour. Even after augmentation, tips may still appear wide or flared—alarplasty refines the result and makes it complete. 

4. Bulbous Nose, Thick Tip, Excess Tissue

For bulbous tips: wide nasal bases often accompany thick, bulbous tips—one of the top dissatisfaction factors among female patients—which we address structurally by reshaping lower lateral cartilages (treating the tip as a “tripod”), combined with base narrowing for comprehensive transformation. 

At Rattinan Clinic, we combine alarplasty with bridge/tip augmentation to ensure your entire nose—from bridge to base—is beautifully balanced, proportionate, and harmonious with your facial features.

5. Crooked or Deviated Nose

Why Correct a Crooked or Deviated Nose with Nose Augmentation?

A crooked or deviated nose needs correction for two important reasons: to help you breathe better and to make your face look balanced and symmetrical. Breathing problems: when your nose is crooked, the wall inside (septum) separating your nostrils is usually bent—this blocks airflow and makes breathing difficult. We straighten the septum (septoplasty) at the same time as reshaping your nose, dramatically improving your breathing and often fixing issues from past injuries. 

Appearance concerns: a crooked nose makes your entire face look unbalanced, even from the front—in fact, 33% of unhappy patients say their nose is still too crooked, making this one of the most important things to fix for satisfaction. 

How we fix it: for severely crooked noses, we carefully straighten the bent septum inside, harvest some of that cartilage, then use it as building blocks to rebuild and strengthen your nose structure so it stays straight long-term. We also adjust your bridge and tip to ensure everything is perfectly aligned. 

Popular Nose Shapes Chosen by Thais

Choosing the right nose shape is personal—it should complement YOUR facial features and personality. Here are the most popular styles Thai patients request:

1. Sloped Bridge with Projected Tip (Slope + Tip Projection)

Features a gentle slope from brow to tip with balanced tip projection. Makes your face appear sweet, gentle, and soft—perfect for those with sweet facial features, average nasal tissue, or traditional Thai facial structures wanting a more youthful, feminine appearance. This classic style enhances natural beauty without looking overdone.

2. Sloped Bridge with Upturned Tip (Slope + Upturned Tip)

Sharp, contoured look with distinctly upturned tip. Creates an international or Western appearance  making your face look keen, confident, and prominent—ideal for women with international features, those who wear heavy/dramatic makeup, or those with strong, bold personalities wanting maximum definition.

3. Barbie Line Nose

Maximum height and projection with clearly upturned tip. Creates a perfect, highly defined look from every angle—best for those who favor precision perfection, wear significant makeup, take frequent photos, or are content creators needing camera-ready features at all times.

4. Princess Korean Nose

Gentle slope with round tip that’s not excessively upturned—cute, natural-looking. Achieves a soft, natural appearance highly popular among Korean idols and celebrities—perfect for those desiring gentle, effortless beauty with average nasal tissue who want to look naturally pretty without appearing “done.”

5. Natural Curve

Doesn’t focus on maximum height but emphasizes looking as natural as possible—as if you were born with it. Subtly enhances your personality  ensuring your face looks good from every angle—ideal for those wanting improvement without others realizing you had surgery, maintaining your natural identity while looking your best.

Factors Affecting the Price of Rhinoplasty

Factors Affecting the Price of Rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty costs vary widely because it’s one of the most technically demanding cosmetic surgeries—your final price depends on several key factors. 

Surgical complexity: primary cosmetic rhinoplasty costs average amounts, while revision rhinoplasty is significantly more expensive (involves scar tissue, distorted anatomy, extensive grafts); functional rhinoplasty combining airway correction may have partial insurance coverage; and ethnic rhinoplasty is at the upper end of pricing due to specialized techniques, extensive grafting, and expertise needed to preserve ethnic identity. 

Surgical technique: closed approach (quickest, least invasive, lower cost for minor adjustments), semi-open (moderate cost, increased complexity for detailed tip work and grafting), and open approach (highest cost due to complex structural changes, longer operative time, specialist surgeon required). Materials used: silicone grade choice (Korean/Japanese/American varies in cost), plus cartilage grafts (harvested from septum/ear/rib) or artificial tissue add complexity and expense. 

Surgeon expertise: subspecialized facial plastic surgeons performing rhinoplasty frequently command premium fees—higher fees correlate with lower revision rates and more predictable results; board certification, training, reputation, and demand also impact pricing. Geographic location: high-cost areas (Manhattan, Beverly Hills, Newport Beach ~$12,750 vs. national average ~$11,400) have higher overhead and demand; accredited surgical centers vs. hospital ORs affect facility fees. 

Additional costs beyond surgeon’s fee: anesthesia fees (MD anesthesiologist vs. CRNA), facility fees, pre-operative testing (labs/EKG), prescriptions (pain medication, saline sprays), post-operative supplies, follow-up visits, and potential non-surgical revision (~20% of patients need microdroplet silicone injections for subtle defects). 

At Rattinan Clinic, we provide transparent, all-inclusive pricing during consultation covering all aspects of your procedure, ensuring no hidden surprises—investing in experienced surgeons and quality materials means better results, fewer revisions, and long-term satisfaction.

 

Facial Surgery Team at Rattinan Clinic

Dr. Taweechai Taweecharoenkul, Otolaryngologist (Ph.D.)

Dr. Taweechai is a highly qualified Otolaryngologist (ENT specialist) with a Ph.D. and specialized training in surgery and aesthetic medicine—uniquely positioned to perform rhinoplasty because otolaryngologists are experts in both the cosmetic appearance and functional breathing aspects of the nose. His otolaryngologic training means he can address both aesthetic refinement and functional concerns simultaneously, performing rhinoplasty in synergy with procedures like septal repair, nasal valve repair, turbinate reduction, and endoscopic sinus surgery when needed. This dual expertise is especially important because many major innovations in modern rhinoplasty techniques come from surgeons with otolaryngologic training, and rhinoplasty is ideally suited for otolaryngologists who understand the complex interplay between nasal structure, breathing function, and facial aesthetics.

Lt. Cmdr. Dr. Jatupon Suessat, Plastic Surgeon

Dr. Jatupon is a board-certified Plastic and Reconstructive Surgeon specializing in aesthetic facial surgery with proper licensing from the Medical Council. His plastic surgery expertise provides comprehensive surgical precision for complex cases requiring extensive structural reshaping, grafting, and aesthetic refinement—ensuring your rhinoplasty results are both beautifully proportioned and structurally sound.

Getting Ready: Before Undergoing Rhinoplasty

Getting Ready: Before Undergoing Rhinoplasty

Preparing for rhinoplasty involves three simple phases to ensure your safety and best results.

Phase 1: Consultation (Setting Realistic Expectations)

• Your goal should be improvement, not perfection—your nose will blend naturally with your face
• You should feel strongly dissatisfied (7+ out of 10) to be a good candidate
• We’ll use computer imaging to show you what to expect
• Family support is important—avoid surgery if close family strongly opposes it

Phase 2: Medical Screening

We’ll check if you have any conditions that make surgery unsafe:

• Bleeding disorders or blood-clotting problems
• Anesthesia sensitivity (family history)
• Active cocaine use (must stop 12+ months before consideration)
• Certain psychiatric conditions or substance abuse history
• Breathing problems, previous nasal surgeries

We’ll also assess:

• Your skin thickness (thin skin shows more irregularities—we’ll discuss this)
• Your breathing through each nostril
• Your facial proportions (nose relationship to chin, lips, face)
• Whether you might benefit from chin augmentation (small chin makes nose look larger)

Phase 3: Preparing for Surgery (2 Weeks Before)

What to STOP:

• Aspirin, ibuprofen, blood thinners (2 weeks before and after)
• Vitamins E, herbal supplements, fish oil (7+ days before)
• Smoking and vaping immediately (causes serious healing problems)
• Alcohol (1 week before)

What to START:

• • Prescribed medications (antibiotic, pain medication, anti-nausea medication)

• Day Before Surgery:

• No food or drink after midnight (if general anesthesia)
• Get 6-8 hours of good sleep
• Postpone if you’re sick or have a cold

Day of Surgery:

• Arrange a driver and caretaker for 24 hours
• Wear front-button/zipper clothes (easy to remove without pulling over head)
• Wash your face (no makeup, no lotions)

Final Steps:

• We’ll take before photos for comparison
• You’ll sign consent forms after we explain everything
• Know that 10% of patients may need minor touch-ups later
• Your first follow-up is 6-8 days after surgery (we remove dressing/splint)

At Rattinan Clinic, we make preparation simple and stress-free—we’ll guide you through every step and answer all your questions to ensure you feel confident and ready for your transformation!

Self-Care After Rhinoplasty

Self-Care After Rhinoplasty

Proper self-care is essential for healing, managing swelling, and achieving your best results. Recovery takes time—full refinement takes up to 12-18 months, especially at the tip. Here’s what you need to know:

First 48-72 Hours (Most Critical)

Managing Swelling:

• Sleep with head elevated using 2-3 pillows (30-45 degrees) for at least 2 weeks
• Apply cold compresses to eyes/forehead (NOT directly on nose) for 20 minutes on, 20 minutes off during first 48 hours
• After 48 hours, switch to warm compresses to promote circulation

Medications & Wound Care:

• Take all prescribed medications exactly as directed (antibiotics, pain medication, anti-anxiety medication)
• NO aspirin, ibuprofen, or blood thinners for 2 weeks after surgery
• After 2 days: gently clean incisions with saline solution 1-2 times daily, apply prescribed ointment
• Don’t touch, scratch, pick, or rub your nose

First 1-4 Weeks (Activity Restrictions)

What to AVOID:

• • Don’t blow your nose until cleared by surgeon

• House rest for first week

• • No intense exercise (aerobics, jogging) for several weeks
  • No heavy lifting (over 5kg) for 2 weeks
  • Don’t wear glasses/sunglasses on nose for 4-6 weeks (they put pressure on surgical site)
  • No smoking, vaping, or alcohol (slows healing, causes tissue death/infection)

• Avoid hot showers, saunas, direct sun exposure

• Don’t pull clothing over head—wear button-down shirts
• Avoid excessive smiling, laughing for several weeks

What to DO:

• • Walk lightly immediately after surgery (promotes circulation)
  • Return to desk work in 7-10 days (rest 7 days if meeting people)
  • Light cardio at 3-4 weeks (stationary bike)
  • Vigorous cardio at 6 weeks (jogging, elliptical)
  • Take baths instead of showers while bandages are on

• Sneeze and cough with mouth open

• Use SPF 30 sunscreen on nose (sun causes permanent discoloration)

Diet for Healing:

• Drink plenty of water, reduce salt (helps swelling go down faster)
• Eat high-fiber foods (fruits, vegetables—prevents constipation/straining)
• Anti-inflammatory foods (vitamins A, C, zinc; pineapple helps reduce swelling/bruising)
• Avoid inflammatory foods (fermented foods, seafood, spicy food) for 1-2 weeks

Long-Term Recovery (Months 1-12+)

What to Expect:

• Tip numbness may be permanent
• Swelling lasts up to a year (80-85% resolves by 3 months; tip settles last)
• First follow-up at 6-8 days (remove dressing, tape, splint, stitches)
• Regular follow-ups for a year: at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year
• If revision needed, must wait 1 year (nose continues changing during this time)
• Minor touch-ups with injectable silicone possible at 1 month if swelling resolved

Warning Signs—Contact Your Surgeon Immediately:

• Heavy bright red bleeding that won’t stop with gentle pressure
• Severe pain not controlled by prescribed medication (especially if worsening)
• Signs of infection: increased redness, warmth, swelling, foul-smelling discharge, fever above 38°C
• Severe breathing difficulties that worsen
• Rare serious symptoms: vision changes, severe headaches, unusual clear nasal discharge

At Rattinan Clinic, we provide detailed self-care instructions and close follow-up throughout your recovery to ensure optimal healing and beautiful, lasting results. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

If You Are Unsatisfied with Your Nose Shape, How Long Must You Wait to Get a Revision?

If You Are Unsatisfied with Your Nose Shape, How Long Must You Wait to Get a Revision?

If you’re unhappy with your nose shape after rhinoplasty, you must typically wait at least one year (12 months) before revision surgery. 

Why the wait? Your nose continues changing throughout recovery—while 80-85% of swelling resolves by 3 months, the remaining 20-30% lingers for a year or longer, especially at the tip (which settles last). Waiting ensures we assess your final, stable nose shape rather than temporary swelling, and maximizes success for revision surgery (which is exponentially more challenging than primary rhinoplasty due to scar tissue and limited remaining cartilage). 

How Many Months Should You Wait to Get a Nose Revision?

About 10% of patients may need revision, typically for issues like residual bumps, under-rotated tips, or pollybeak deformity (prominent supratip). Faster option for minor issues: if you have small bumps or irregularities on your bridge, we can perform nonsurgical revision using injectable silicone as early as 1 month after surgery (if swelling resolved). 

Exception: severe immediate complications like severely deviated silicone implants or technical mistakes might be corrected within 1-2 months depending on tissue condition. 

At Rattinan Clinic, we provide close follow-up throughout your first year to monitor healing and determine if/when revision is appropriate—our goal is to help you achieve your desired result safely and successfully.

Cases Where Revision Can Be Done Sooner Than Normal

Cases Where Revision Can Be Done Sooner Than Normal

While the standard waiting period for revision rhinoplasty is one year, certain specific situations allow for earlier intervention. 

Non-surgical correction (as early as 1 month): if you have small bumps or irregularities on your bridge and the swelling has resolved, we can use liquid injectable silicone (LIS) microdroplets to fill these minor defects without surgery—however, if your bridge is still swollen, we must wait until swelling subsides. 

Early surgical correction (1-2 months): in rare cases of immediate technical problems—like the silicone implant being severely deviated right after surgery, placed in the wrong location, or the shape dramatically different from planned—your surgeon may consider correction within 1-2 months depending on tissue condition and assessment. 

Advice from Rattinan Clinic

At Rattinan Clinic, we carefully assess each situation individually—while we prefer waiting for full healing to ensure optimal results, we understand some complications require earlier intervention and will recommend the safest, most appropriate timeline for your specific case.

Can You Get a Nose Revision If You’ve Had Filler / Thread Lift?

1. In Case of Previous Nose Filler

If you need correction because previous materials must be removed—hyaluronic acid filler must first be dissolved then wait 2-4 weeks before new augmentation (provided no inflammation); if an existing implant needs removal due to infection, inflammation, or severely thin skin complications, tissues must rest about 1 month before new augmentation to ensure safety and proper healing. 

2. In Case of Previous Nose Thread Lift

Can You Get a Nose Revision If You’ve Had Thread Lift?

Yes, you can undergo rhinoplasty revision or surgical augmentation after a previous thread lift, but the procedure is more complex and requires specific steps for safety. 

Thread removal required: the threads may still remain under your skin even after a long time—before placing new silicone implants or restructuring your nose, your surgeon must surgically open the area and remove as many threads as possible; if threads are left inside, they can form scar tissue or push the new silicone implant into the wrong position causing future problems. 

Waiting period: you must wait at least 3-6 months or longer after thread lift to allow nasal tissues to fully heal and ensure there’s no inflammation before proceeding with surgery. At Rattinan Clinic, we’ll carefully assess the location of old threads and the overall condition of your nasal tissues during consultation to determine the best timing and approach for your revision surgery—ensuring we safely remove previous materials and create a beautiful, stable result that lasts.

 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is rhinoplasty painful?

Is Rhinoplasty Painful?

Rhinoplasty is generally not highly painful for most patients—discomfort is well-managed during and after the procedure. 

During surgery: you’ll feel no pain at all thanks to anesthesia options (local anesthesia with sedation makes you groggy but comfortable, or general anesthesia puts you completely asleep); modern techniques don’t use nasal packing, which significantly reduces postoperative pain. 

After surgery: most patients rate their pain between 0-4 out of 10 one day after surgery—you’ll experience pressure and congestion rather than sharp pain, with discomfort typically peaking within the first 48-72 hours then gradually subsiding. Pain is easily managed with prescribed medication (mild narcotics for a few days), and many patients transition to regular paracetamol within days; you may feel slight soreness or minor throbbing/swelling in the nasal area for 2-3 days. 

The main challenge is nasal congestion from swelling during the first week (we may provide anti-anxiety medication for sleep if needed). At Rattinan Clinic, we prioritize your comfort throughout the process—using advanced pain management techniques and providing comprehensive medication to ensure your recovery is as comfortable as possible, so you can focus on healing and enjoying your beautiful new results!

 

How many days does recovery take?

How Many Days Does Recovery Take?

Rhinoplasty recovery happens in stages—from immediate downtime of 7-10 days to complete healing taking 12-18 months. 

• First week (days 1-7): most intensive healing with swelling and bruising; splint/tape/stitches removed at 6-8 days; most patients take 7-10 days off work and feel like themselves again after one week; house rest required for the first week, then resume normal social activities. 
• Weeks 2-3: swelling and bruising significantly improve; can return to public/social settings; avoid heavy lifting (over 5kg) and bending over. 
• Weeks 3-6: unrestricted physical activity allowed after 3 weeks; light cardio (stationary bike) at 3-4 weeks; vigorous cardio (jogging) at 6 weeks; can resume wearing glasses at 3-4 weeks (avoid direct pressure on nose for 4-6 weeks).
•  Months 1-3: 60-70% of visible swelling resolves by 1 month; nose looks close to final form to others; 80-85% of swelling dissipates by 3 months; scars begin fading. 
• Months 6-18: subtle refinement continues; swelling can last up to a year (especially at tip, which settles last); complete healing takes 12-18 months; if revision needed, must wait at least one year. At Rattinan Clinic, we provide close follow-up throughout your recovery journey (visits at 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, 6 months, 1 year) to monitor your progress and ensure you achieve your beautiful final results!

Do I need to take time off work?

Do I Need to Take Time Off Work?

Yes, you’ll need time off work, but the amount depends on your job type and how much you interact with people. Minimum recommended: most patients take 7-10 days off work—by one week, you’ll feel like yourself again and can resume normal social activities. 

Is the augmentation permanent?

Is the Augmentation Permanent?

Rhinoplasty augmentation using silicone implants is considered semi-permanent—the implant can last many years (often decades) but is not truly permanent because it can be adjusted, replaced, or removed if needed in the future. 

Silicone implants: durable and flexible material that maintains its shape long-term; doesn’t dissolve or disappear on its own; can last a lifetime if no complications occur; however, can be removed or replaced if you want changes or experience issues (like implant deviation, thinning skin, or dissatisfaction with appearance). 

Cartilage grafts (from your septum, ear, or rib): these are your own tissue, so they integrate permanently with your nose and last a lifetime; they won’t be rejected since they’re from your own body; provide permanent structural support and refinement. 

Important distinction from fillers: unlike HA fillers which are temporary (12-18 months) or liquid injectable silicone (LIS) used for minor touch-ups, surgical rhinoplasty with silicone implants and cartilage grafts provides long-lasting, stable results. 

Can results change? Your augmentation remains stable, but natural aging (tip may droop slightly over decades), significant weight changes, trauma/injury, or pregnancy can affect your nose shape over time—though the implant itself remains in place. 

At Rattinan Clinic, we use high-quality materials and surgical techniques to ensure your results last for many years while maintaining the flexibility to adjust or revise if your preferences change in the future!

 

Do I need to wait for my tissue to rest if I’ve had it done before?

Do I Need to Wait for My Tissue to Rest if I’ve Had It Done Before?

Yes, you typically need to wait for your nasal tissues to rest and heal before undergoing another rhinoplasty, but the waiting period depends on what you had done previously and why you need revision. 

Previous surgical rhinoplasty: if you’re unsatisfied with a previous nose surgery, you must wait at least 12 months (one year) before revision surgery—this allows swelling to fully resolve (especially at the tip, which settles last) and ensures we’re assessing your final, stable nose shape rather than temporary swelling. 

Previous thread lift: you must wait at least 3-6 months or longer after thread lift before surgical augmentation—tissues must fully recover with no inflammation; during surgery, we’ll need to remove remaining threads to prevent scar tissue formation or implant displacement. 

Previous filler (HA/Hyaluronic Acid): the filler must first be dissolved, then wait 2-4 weeks after dissolving injection before new augmentation (provided no inflammation remains). 

Previous implant removal (due to infection, inflammation, or complications): tissues must rest for about 1 month after implant removal to recover and ensure safety before placing new augmentation.

 Exception for immediate technical problems: if severe issues occur right after surgery (like severely deviated implant or wrong placement), correction may be considered within 1-2 months depending on tissue condition. At Rattinan Clinic, we’ll carefully assess your previous procedures, evaluate your tissue condition, and determine the safest, most appropriate waiting period for your specific situation—prioritizing tissue health to ensure your revision achieves beautiful, lasting results!