Risks of Septorhinoplasty Surgery – What Patients Should Know

mrtimbiggs4
Nov 11
2 min read

If you’re considering septorhinoplasty or rhinoplasty, it’s natural to want to understand the potential risks as well as the benefits. A well-informed patient is a confident one and most complications are very rare when surgery is performed by a specialist consultant ENT and rhinology surgeon.

As a Consultant ENT Surgeon based in Portsmouth and Fareham, I always discuss risks clearly during consultation at Adnova Clinic or Queen Alexandra Hospital, so patients know exactly what to expect.

What is Septorhinoplasty?

Septorhinoplasty combines two main goals, although its predominant aim is function (improving the breathing):

Main focus = Improving breathing by straightening the septum (the internal wall of the nose)
Secondary aim = Refining the shape of the external nose for a balanced, more natural appearance

It’s a highly specialised operation that requires precision and experience.

Common, Temporary Side Effects

Some effects are expected after surgery and usually settle quickly:

Swelling and bruising around the eyes and nose for 7–10 days
Nasal congestion due to internal swelling
Temporary numbness at the tip of the nose or upper lip
Minor bleeding or crusting in the first week

With Piezo ultrasonic rhinoplasty and dorsal preservation techniques, bruising and swelling are usually far less than with older methods. Most patients feel comfortable returning to normal activities within two weeks.

Less Common Risks

These are uncommon but important to understand:

Infection – rare and typically managed with antibiotics
Nosebleed – usually mild; severe bleeding is extremely uncommon
Septal perforation (a small hole inside the septum) – rare, but may cause crusting or whistling
Asymmetry or irregularity – small differences between the two sides can occur as tissues heal
Change in smell or taste – usually temporary
Prolonged swelling – occasionally takes several months to fully settle

Long-Term or Rare Complications

Breathing changes – while septorhinoplasty aims to improve airflow, internal scarring can occasionally affect the nasal passage
Revision surgery – occasionally, small refinements may be desired once tissues settle (about 5–10% of cases worldwide)
Anaesthetic risks – rare but present with any general anaesthetic

Choosing an experienced consultant rhinoplasty surgeon greatly reduces these risks.

Reducing Risk – My Approach

At Adnova Clinic, all surgery is consultant-performed and evidence-based. I use atraumatic Piezo instruments, precise dissection, and no nasal packing, meaning patients breathe comfortably from day one.

Comprehensive postoperative care, including saline washes and steroid drops, supports healing and reduces complications.

Summary

Every operation carries some risk, but modern septorhinoplasty is safe, predictable, and highly refined when performed by a fellowship-trained specialist. Understanding possible side effects helps you prepare confidently for a smooth recovery.

If you’re considering functional septorhinoplasty or cosmetic rhinoplasty in Portsmouth, Fareham, Southampton, Winchester or indeed anywhere in Hampshire, consultations are available with Mr Tim Biggs, Consultant ENT & Rhinology Surgeon, at the Adnova Clinic.