Teenagers who desire a rhinoplasty should wait until their growth spurt is complete. A rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure. Risks include bleeding and infection. Swelling and bruising occur. For a week after surgery, a nasal splint is worn.
Most patients can return to work in a week or two after surgery.
Surgery to change the appearance of the nose does not affect breathing but surgery on internal structures such as a deviated septum can improve breathing. Correction of a deviated septum occurs separately or in conjunction with a rhinoplasty.