Fortunately serious complications are very rare following a rhinoplasty. However, as in any operation, complications can occur and the surgeon must discuss these with a patient who is considering cosmetic nasal surgery. They can then make an informed decision about whether they wish to proceed.

• Complications include bleeding, severe bruising, infection and numbness of the nose and teeth. Permanent numbness is most unusual.
• A serious complication is a septal perforation where a hole forms in the cartilage septum inside the nose. In experienced hands this is a rare complication.
• Loss of sense of smell has been reported after a rhinoplasty. This is very rare indeed.

The majority of patients are happy with the result of their surgery, but there is no nasal plastic surgeon who always achieves ideal results, and occasionally a second operation ( called a revision rhinoplasty) is required. This possibility and other possible complications must be discussed with patients, with the surgeon informing the patient about his or her own personal results.

It is my practise to give patients written information about a rhinoplasty which is often helpful.