What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty — often called a nose job — reshapes the framework under the skin rather than the skin itself. The upper third of the nose is bone, the middle and lower thirds are cartilage, and the septum divides the airway down the middle. Changing any one of these affects the others, which is why a rhinoplasty plan looks at the whole nose and how it sits within the face.
Typical goals are a straighter or higher bridge, a slimmer and better-supported tip, and nostrils that do not dominate the front view. If a single feature is the issue, a smaller operation such as tip plasty or alar reduction may achieve it with less swelling.
Am I a good candidate for rhinoplasty?
- A low, flat or uneven bridge that makes the profile look unfinished.
- A hump, droop or crooked line you notice in side-view photos.
- A round, wide or under-projected tip that lacks definition.
- Nasal blockage from a deviated septum alongside a cosmetic concern.
- Age 18 or over with the nose fully grown and realistic expectations.
If you have had nose surgery before, the planning is different — see revision rhinoplasty. Men often want a straighter, stronger line rather than a smaller nose; our male rhinoplasty page explains why.
Open vs closed rhinoplasty
| Open rhinoplasty | Closed rhinoplasty | Filler (non-surgical) | |
| Incision | Inside + small cut under the tip | Inside the nostrils only | None |
| Best for | Major tip work, revisions | Bridge work, modest tip changes | Small bridge lift |
| Visibility for surgeon | Full | Limited | — |
| Swelling | More, longer at the tip | Less | Minimal |
| Longevity | Permanent | Permanent | 6–12 months |
Read more about the scarless option on our closed rhinoplasty page.
How is rhinoplasty performed?
Before & after
Before
After
Browse other categories in our before & after gallery.
What is rhinoplasty recovery like?
| Day 1–3 | Splint on, congestion and swelling; sleep with the head raised. |
|---|---|
| Day 5–7 | Splint and any external stitches removed; bruising yellowing. |
| Week 2–3 | Presentable with light make-up; most people return to desk work. |
| Month 3–12 | Bridge settles first; tip definition keeps improving for up to a year. |
“A good nose should not be the first thing people notice about your face.”
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung · Chief DirectorWhat are the risks of rhinoplasty?
Risks include bleeding, infection, prolonged swelling, minor asymmetry, temporary numbness of the tip and, less commonly, breathing changes or a need for revision (often quoted at around 5–15% across surgeons). Implants carry an added risk of visibility, shifting or capsular contracture. We prefer conservative changes and the patient's own cartilage where possible.
Frequently asked questions
Is rhinoplasty painful?
Most people describe pressure and a blocked nose rather than sharp pain. Prescribed painkillers usually control discomfort in the first few days.
Will my breathing get worse?
Not if the airway is protected. Dr. Lee checks the septum and nasal valves at consultation and corrects a deviated septum during the same operation when needed.
Do you use implants or my own cartilage?
It depends on how much height is needed. Septal or ear cartilage is preferred for the tip; silicone or other materials are discussed for the bridge case by case.
How long do I need to stay in Korea?
About 7–10 days, so the splint can be removed and Dr. Lee can check healing before you fly.
When can I wear glasses?
Avoid resting glasses on the bridge for about 4–6 weeks; tape them to the forehead or use contact lenses.
Who performs the surgery?
Dr. Lee Yoo-jung, a board-certified plastic surgeon, performs your consultation, surgery and aftercare.