Some facial cosmetic procedures are temporary and require touch ups every so often. Surgical rhinoplasty on the other hand provides permanent results that should last a lifetime. It is however important to realise that rhinoplasty surgery cannot stop the nose from aging naturally.

• Residual post-surgery irregularities or asymmetry of the nose is the single main risk of rhinoplasty surgery. These concerns can necessitate revision surgery in up to 10 percent of cosmetic rhinoplasty surgery cases.
• Cosmetic nasal surgery to alter the shape of the nose without respecting the function and support structures of the nose can cause functional and breathing problems following surgery. Dr Oosthuizen performs both cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty surgery and his aim is always to protect and preserve the breathing and function of the nose following surgery, especially in cosmetic rhinoplasty procedures.
• Some of the other more general risks and complications encountered include but are not limited to:
• Bleeding
• Infection (which can alter the final result)
• An allergic reaction to the anaesthetic
• Pain
• Changes in skin sensations including numbness and tingling
• Stiffness of the tip of the nose

The cost of rhinoplasty surgery is different for each individual, reflecting the complexity of the surgery required.
Costs will include specific fees for Dr Chris Oosthuizen, the anaesthetist and the hospital.

If surgery is elected for aesthetic reasons only, health insurance will not cover these costs. Medically necessary surgery though may be covered in part.

Form & Function Rhinoplasty and Sinus Surgery sets our rates competitively to other specialist surgeons.

With us you’ll know exactly what you’ll pay, with no hidden costs or changes to consultation or surgery fees.

Please contact our office if you have an enquiry regarding fees.

• After rhinoplasty surgery there is quite commonly some swelling and bruising under the eyes and around the nose. This should be at its worst between two to three days after your procedure. Swelling and bruising can be reduced by sleeping with your head in an elevated position and using ice packs regularly for the first few days after surgery.
• The nose can be quite congested and stuffy for the first few days and you will be encouraged to use a nasal wash to clear any dissolvable dressings that may have been used during the operation.
• There will be some pain and discomfort as well however, the majority of patients rate their pain between a 0 to 4 out of ten the day after surgery. You will receive pain medication including anti-inflammatory medication to take after going home to ensure that you are comfortable.
• There will be an external splint on the nose. This is to help reduce swelling and keep everything in a favorable position during the initial stages of healing. A week after surgery this will be removed, and the external sutures will be taken out at the same time. It is important to keep the splint dry and avoid touching it to make sure it doesn’t move.
• Certain activities should be limited during the initial recovery period. These include strenuous activities such as exercise.
• You will be provided with a detailed instruction and information brochure following surgery to inform you how to look after your nose after the procedure. It is important to follow these instructions to get the best possible outcome after your operation.

It is recommended that you do not wear glasses including sunglasses for six weeks after rhinoplasty. This is to limit pressure on the bridge of your nose which can interfere with the final result of your operation. There are a number of solutions available including cheek pads that lift the glasses off your nose to ensure that there is no pressure placed over the bridge.

Rhinoplasty surgery is performed under a full General Anaesthetic.

Yes. Quite often the main aim of rhinoplasty is to improve breathing and nasal function. This is called functional rhinoplasty. As a specialist nose surgeon Dr Oosthuizen’s aim is to provide the best possible functional / breathing outcome for his patients regardless of the type of rhinoplasty.

Depending on the extent of surgery the recovery will vary between one to two weeks. For limited surgery patients can be back at work as soon as a week after. For more complex, complete rhinoplasty surgery it is recommended to take two weeks off work after surgery to recover fully. Swelling will likely reduce to be unnoticeable after around 2 to 3 months. There will however be ongoing changes in the appearance of the nose for a year to 18 months following surgery.

During those recovery months, there are things patients might be best to avoid, such as playing contact sports or sunbathing, as the skin and nose structure are more sensitive.