How Long Does Rhinoplasty Take?

Dr. Hamidreza Hosnani

ENT Specialist | Rhinoplasty Surgeon in Tehran | Nose Surgery Specialist

Decision Making

Rhinoplasty Candidate ♦ Choosing a Rhinoplasty Surgeon ♦ Criteria for Nose Aesthetics ♦ Factors Affecting Surgery Results ♦ Cost of Rhinoplasty ♦ Difference Between Female and Male Noses ♦ Difference Between Open and Closed Methods ♦ Psychological Tips ♦ Duration of Rhinoplasty ♦

The duration of a rhinoplasty depends on the type of nose, the type of surgery, and the skill of the surgeon. A surgery usually takes an average of two hours, but it varies from one and a half to three hours.

Duration of Rhinoplasty

The duration of rhinoplasty is usually about one and a half hours, although this time can vary depending on the type of nose, the extent of corrections required, and the surgical technique used. During this time, adjustments to the nasal bones and cartilage, correction of internal deviation, and shaping of the nasal tip are performed to achieve a balanced and stable final form. According to Dr. Hosnani, while the length of the surgery is important, the quality and precision of each surgical step are far more significant in determining the final outcome.

How long are the preparations for rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty involves preliminary steps such as hospital admission and anesthesia. Patients are required to arrive one hour before the surgery begins for admission and a final interview with the surgeon. Following this, the patient is prepared for anesthesia.

How long does the surgery itself take?

The surgery itself typically lasts between 1.5 to 3 hours, with an average duration of approximately two hours.

Video: How long does rhinoplasty take?

Dr. Hosnani explains that the actual surgical procedure usually takes about an hour and a half. Regarding the overall process, patients are typically discharged on the evening of the surgery. Some bruising around the eyes and face is common the following day. A nasal splint (cast) is worn for one week to protect the new structure of the nose. Severe initial swelling usually subsides significantly within that first week. At the end of the week, the splint is removed, stitches are taken out, and the patient can return to daily life and work. Therefore, the actual recovery period requiring rest is about one week, after which normal activities can be resumed.

How long do waking up, recovery, rest, and discharge take?

The patient spends about one hour in the recovery room, where vital signs are monitored as they gradually wake up from anesthesia. Afterward, they are moved to the ward for approximately 6 hours of rest. If vital signs remain stable, the patient is discharged.

What factors influence the duration of rhinoplasty?

Nose Type: "Fleshy" noses generally require more time than "bony" (cartilaginous) noses. Noses with weak cartilage that require structural grafting take longer to operate on.
Type of Surgery: Whether an open or closed approach is used, or if it is a revision surgery (secondary rhinoplasty). Factors such as whether the previous surgery was performed by a different surgeon or the current one also impact surgical time.
Surgeon's Skill: Naturally, a more experienced surgeon is able to perform the procedure more efficiently.

Video: How long should you tape your nose?

After removing the nasal splint, taping is recommended for at least two weeks. During this early stage, the nose is in the primary phase of healing, and tissues are just beginning to take shape; therefore, taping plays a crucial role in reducing swelling, helping the nose form properly, and ensuring the stability of the surgical result. The first two weeks are considered the "golden time" for the effect of taping due to the sensitivity of internal structures and skin. After this, while the importance decreases, taping for up to two months—especially for fleshy noses or those with significant swelling—can help the shaping process and control puffiness. Always follow your surgeon's specific advice on this matter.