Rhinoplasty Surgery London

Rhinoplasty, often referred to as a “nose job“ is the surgical procedure dedicated to refining the shape, structure and overall appearance of the nose. Whether you wish to correct a prominent nasal hump, refine a broad or drooping tip, or restore symmetry after an injury, rhinoplasty surgery offers a tailored solution for aesthetic and functional concerns.

Dr Stefano Cotrufo is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon in London Harley Street with over 15 years’ experience as a plastic surgery and reconstructive microsurgery specialist.

Summary

Procedure timeProcedure time
1-2 h
AnaesthesiaAnaesthesia
Twilight or general
Hospital stayHospital stay
Optional
Support garmentSupport garment
Splint up to 3 weeks
ExerciseExercise
From 2 weeks
RecoveryRecovery
3 months
Final resultsFinal results
12 months

At our London clinic, Dr Stefano Cotrufo provides a personalised approach to rhinoplasty, ensuring results that harmonise with your facial features while respecting individual anatomy. After a detailed consultation, we design a bespoke surgical plan aligned with your goals for natural, balanced outcomes.

What Is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical operation that can reshape the nose by altering its size, projection, bridge, tip structure, and sometimes its internal architecture. The procedure can address concerns such as a dorsal hump, wide nostrils, a drooping tip or asymmetry but can also include functional interventions when needed.

In fact it is appropriate to state that any large nasal reduction will have to be associated with functional considerations. Cartilage grafts are indicated for larger reductions even though no

There are several techniques depending on your needs. Some involve minimal incisions (closed rhinoplasty), ideal for subtle adjustments such as hump removal, while others (open rhinoplasty) allow for more extensive reshaping, including tip modification.

Rhinoplasty may also be combined with related procedures, for example, septorhinoplasty,  to improve nasal airflow while refining aesthetics, when structural issues like a deviated septum or internal valve collapse are present.

Who Is Rhinoplasty For?

Rhinoplasty is suitable if you are dissatisfied with the shape, size or proportions of your nose, or if previous trauma has altered your nasal anatomy. It may also be appropriate if you experience breathing difficulties arising from structural irregularities inside the nose.

During consultation, Dr Cotrufo will assess your facial proportions, nasal anatomy and aesthetic aims, and advise whether a purely appearance-focused approach or a combined functional and appearance-focused solution (e.g., septorhinoplasty) is best for you.

The Rhinoplasty Procedure

The exact surgical plan is bespoke, determined by your anatomy and desired outcome. Rhinoplasty can involve reshaping the nasal bone and cartilage, refining the nasal tip, reducing the bridge, narrowing nostrils (alar base reduction), or adjusting the septum if required.

Depending on the complexity, the procedure typically takes 2 to 3 hours under general anaesthesia or sedation.

Most rhinoplasties are performed on a day-case basis, though if additional intervention is needed (e.g. cartilage grafting), an overnight stay may be recommended.

Recovery and Results

After surgery, patients commonly take around a week off work. Light activities can often resume within two weeks, while more rigorous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided for 4–6 weeks.

Initial improvements are typically visible within a few weeks as swelling reduces. However, final results may take 6 to 12 months to fully manifest as residual swelling subsides and tissues settle.

Postoperative care is crucial for optimal healing, and we provide a comprehensive follow-up plan tailored to each patient to support recovery and ensure the best possible outcome.

Why Choose Dr Stefano Cotrufo for Rhinoplasty?

Choosing the right surgeon for rhinoplasty is essential for achieving natural and harmonious results. Dr Stefano Cotrufo offers a bespoke, patient-centred consultation, taking the time to understand your unique facial structure and individual aesthetic goals. Using advanced rhinoplasty techniques, he ensures minimal scarring, reduced tissue trauma, and enhanced healing. His approach is dedicated to creating balanced, natural-looking outcomes that complement your overall facial features. Beyond the surgery itself, Dr Cotrufo provides thorough aftercare and personalised support throughout your recovery, guiding each patient to achieve the best possible result with confidence and safety.

Rhinoplasty at a Glance

Rhinoplasty procedures generally take between two and three hours, depending on complexity. Anaesthesia is administered either as general or sedation, tailored to the patient’s individual requirements. Most operations are completed on a day-case basis, although an overnight stay may be required if additional procedures, such as cartilage grafting, are necessary. Patients typically take about a week off work, with light activities possible after two weeks and full recovery after four to six weeks. While initial changes may be apparent within a few weeks, the final results generally become evident over six to twelve months as residual swelling resolves and tissues settle.

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Sensational attentive surgeon. Couldn’t be happier with the results. Would really recommend Stefano to anyone even considering surgery.

Emma Leicester



FAQs on Rhinoplasty

  • What is the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
  • Can rhinoplasty improve my breathing, as well as change the look of my nose?
  • How long is the recovery, and when will I see the final result?
  • Will there be visible scars?
  • What factors influence the cost of rhinoplasty?
  • Is rhinoplasty safe?
  • Can I combine rhinoplasty with other facial procedures?
  • How do I know if I am a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

What is the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?

Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision on the outer part of the nose, permitting significant reshaping of structures like the nasal tip and offering maximal visibility to the surgeon. Closed rhinoplasty uses only internal incisions, making it better suited to subtle changes such as hump reduction, and leaves no visible external scars.

Can rhinoplasty improve my breathing, as well as change the look of my nose?

Yes. If you have structural issues such as a deviated septum or internal valve collapse, a combined septorhinoplasty can both enhance the nose’s appearance and improve airflow, helping with breathing problems.

How long is the recovery, and when will I see the final result?

Most patients take about a week off work. Light activities can resume after two weeks, but strenuous exercise should wait 4–6 weeks. Initial results appear within a few weeks, while final results typically settle over 6 to 12 months.

Will there be visible scars?

With a closed rhinoplasty, no visible external scars will result. With open rhinoplasty, the incision is small and usually hidden along the natural crease of the nose, becoming nearly invisible once fully healed.

What factors influence the cost of rhinoplasty?

Cost is influenced by factors such as the complexity of the procedure, the techniques required (e.g. cartilage grafting, septorhinoplasty), and the time needed. A tailored quote will be provided during consultation based on your individual surgical plan.

Is rhinoplasty safe?

When performed by an experienced and qualified surgeon, rhinoplasty is generally considered safe. As with any surgery, there are potential risks (e.g. infection, bleeding, swelling, bruising), but serious complications are rare. A careful surgical and aftercare plan helps minimise such risks.

Can I combine rhinoplasty with other facial procedures?

Yes, depending on your goals and anatomy, rhinoplasty can sometimes be combined with other facial surgeries or nasal functional surgeries. During your consultation, Dr Cotrufo will advise whether such a combined approach is suitable and beneficial for you.

How do I know if I am a good candidate for rhinoplasty?

A good candidate is someone with realistic expectations, good general health, and either aesthetic concerns about their nose’s shape or functional issues (such as breathing problems). At your consultation, we assess your nasal structure, skin quality, facial proportions, and discuss your aims to ensure rhinoplasty is right for you.

Still have questions?

We’re here to help. To learn more about Rhinoplasty surgery or schedule a consultation with a top-rated surgeon in London, call 0207 873 2330 or enquire below. You can also view our testimonials or follow us on Instagram.

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Chief Surgeon

Dr Stefano Cotrufo

Dr Stefano Cotrufo is a Board Certified Plastic Surgeon with over 15 years’ experience working in London as a plastic surgery and reconstructive microsurgery specialist. He performs a wide range of plastic surgery and non-surgical procedures from his private practice in Harley Street.
Member of The European Union of Medical Specialists for Plastic, Reconstructive & Aesthetic Surgery
General Medical Council Registered Plastic Surgeon
realself Top Doctor Award
The Royal Society of Medicine Plastic Surgeon
BMA Certified Plastic Surgeon
Member of British Society of Rhinoplasty Surgeons
Masters Educational Series, Implantech 2016, Facial & Body Contouring Implants Course Certified Plastic Surgeon

Dr Stefano Cotrufo, consultant plastic surgeon, Harley Street London
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