How much does rhinoplasty cost? How long does recovery take after nose surgery? Is rhinoplasty painful? What is the purpose of nasal packing? How do you choose the best rhinoplasty surgeon? There are many questions surrounding this procedure, so we’ve prepared a comprehensive guide to help you understand everything you need to know about rhinoplasty.
Considering that the nose is one of the most prominent features of the face, it is hardly surprising that rhinoplasty, commonly known as nose surgery or a nose job, is one of the most popular procedures in plastic surgery.
Many patients recommend Dr. Predrag Matejin and Clinic Olymp in Novi Sad for rhinoplasty surgery.
If you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose because you feel it is too large, too wide, upturned, or has a prominent hump, or if you experience breathing difficulties due to a deviated septum or other structural problems, this guide is for you.
Let’s explore the most important information about this popular surgical procedure.
How Do You Know If You Are a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
You may be a suitable candidate for rhinoplasty if you have experienced one or more of the following concerns:
- I have difficulty breathing through my nose and suspect I have a deviated septum.
- My nose has been deformed due to an injury.
- I have a prominent hump on the bridge of my nose.
- My nose looks too large for my face.
- My nose is too long or too short.
- I have a bulbous nose.
- My nose is too wide, or my nostrils are too large.
- The tip of my nose is drooping or asymmetrical.
- I am unhappy with the appearance of my nose.
- The appearance of my nose affects my self-confidence.
Fortunately, rhinoplasty offers several surgical techniques that can address both aesthetic and functional concerns.
Rhinoplasty is one of the most frequently performed procedures at Clinic Olymp. Dr. Predrag Matejin has extensive experience in nose surgery, performing more than 100 rhinoplasty procedures annually, according to the clinic’s reported experience at the time this article was written.
At What Age Can You Have Rhinoplasty?
If you are considering rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons, it is generally recommended to wait until nasal growth is complete.
For girls, this typically occurs around the ages of 15 to 16, while boys may continue developing until approximately 17 or 18 years of age.
However, physical maturity is not the only consideration. Emotional maturity, realistic expectations, and the ability to make an informed decision are equally important.
For this reason, we generally recommend waiting until adulthood before undergoing cosmetic rhinoplasty.
When surgery is required to address significant breathing difficulties, structural abnormalities, or injuries, it may be considered at an earlier age following a thorough medical assessment and with parental or guardian consent where required.
What Is the First Step Before Rhinoplasty?
Once you have decided to explore rhinoplasty, the first step is to contact our clinic and schedule a consultation with a plastic surgeon.
Consultations at Clinic Olymp are free!
During your consultation, the surgeon will first determine whether you are a suitable candidate for the procedure.
Good communication between you and your surgeon is essential. Dr. Matejin will carefully listen to your wishes and expectations and explain which changes may be achievable while maintaining harmony with your facial features.
Where appropriate, digital imaging or simulations may be used to illustrate potential changes. These are planning tools rather than guarantees of the final result.
Your surgeon will also need to understand your medical history. Before the consultation, you will complete a questionnaire covering previous injuries, surgical procedures, allergies, medications, and other relevant health information.
The nose plays an important role in the overall balance and appearance of the face.
Although certain nasal shapes have traditionally been associated with masculine or feminine facial proportions, there is no universally ideal nose shape. The most appropriate result depends on each patient’s individual anatomy, preferences, and facial characteristics.
“One of the fundamental principles is that there is no standard template. Every patient is unique, and a different nose shape suits each individual. Not every nose shape complements every face, so the procedure must be tailored to the patient’s specific facial features.” – Dr. Predrag Matejin
What Happens During a Rhinoplasty Consultation and Examination?
Your surgeon will carefully examine your nose to determine which changes may be possible and appropriate.
An initial consultation can also take place through a video call. However, an in-person examination is important before making final surgical decisions and assessing what can realistically be achieved.
Dr. Matejin also performs an internal nasal examination, particularly when the patient has breathing difficulties or requires correction of a deviated septum.
Preserving or improving nasal airflow is an important consideration during rhinoplasty. When appropriate, correction of a deviated septum can be combined with cosmetic nose surgery in a procedure known as septorhinoplasty.
In some cases, achieving a more balanced appearance does not require a complete rhinoplasty. A more limited procedure, such as nasal tip refinement, may be sufficient.
For selected patients, certain minor contour irregularities may also be addressed using hyaluronic acid fillers.
Non-surgical rhinoplasty with dermal fillers can sometimes camouflage a small dorsal hump or create the appearance of a straighter nasal bridge. However, fillers add volume rather than remove bone or cartilage, so they cannot physically reduce the size of the nose.
Results are temporary, and the duration varies depending on the product and individual factors.
It is important to understand that nasal filler injections carry specific risks, including vascular occlusion, skin damage, and, in rare cases, blindness. They should only be considered following careful assessment by a qualified and experienced medical professional.
During your free consultation, the surgeon will assess your motivation, examine the nasal tissues and facial structure, and develop an individualized treatment plan based on your anatomy and goals.
Photographs of your face and nose will also be taken from several angles to support surgical planning and help evaluate postoperative results over time.
How to Prepare for Rhinoplasty Surgery
Rhinoplasty is commonly performed under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep throughout the procedure.
Before surgery, you will need to undergo the necessary preoperative assessments and laboratory tests.
These can be completed at a laboratory in Novi Sad or another suitable medical facility.
After your initial consultation, our nursing team will explain which tests are required and, if necessary, help you arrange appointments.
Preoperative tests are usually performed shortly before surgery. Results can be delivered in person or sent by email, WhatsApp, or Viber so our medical team can review them in advance.
You should also bring any required original medical reports with you on the day of surgery.
Before the procedure, you will meet with Dr. Kristina Crnjanski, our specialist in anesthesiology.
She will review your medical history, examine your test results, and assess your suitability for anesthesia.
If you regularly take any medication, including prescription drugs, over-the-counter medicines, or supplements, make sure to inform the anesthesiologist. You will receive specific instructions about which medications to continue or temporarily discontinue before surgery.
On the day of surgery, which is usually scheduled in the morning, you should arrive at the clinic at the agreed time.
It is essential to follow the fasting instructions provided by your anesthesiologist.
You will normally be asked to avoid solid food for a specified period before surgery. Clear liquids may be permitted until a certain time, depending on your individual instructions and medical circumstances.
At the clinic, you will shower, prepare for the procedure, and have another opportunity to speak with Dr. Matejin and Dr. Kristina Crnjanski.
We recommend wearing comfortable clothing, ideally with a front opening, so you do not need to pull anything tightly over your head after surgery.
There is no need to bring a nightgown or slippers, as these will be provided by the clinic.
How Is Rhinoplasty Surgery Performed?
The duration of rhinoplasty depends on the complexity of the procedure.
Some relatively straightforward procedures may take approximately 45 minutes to two hours, while more complex or revision rhinoplasty procedures can take considerably longer.
The surgical process may involve the following steps:
- Making the incisions: Dr. Matejin frequently performs closed rhinoplasty, in which incisions are made inside the nostrils. This technique generally avoids a visible external incision beneath the nose. In other cases, an open approach may be more appropriate.
- Accessing the nasal structures: The surgeon carefully separates the nasal skin and soft tissues from the underlying bone and cartilage to access the structures requiring correction.
- Reshaping the nose: Specialized surgical instruments are used to precisely reshape the nasal bones and cartilage according to the individualized surgical plan.
- Adjusting nasal proportions: Excess bone or cartilage may be removed or repositioned, and the angle between the nose and upper lip may be adjusted when necessary. In some cases, cartilage grafts are used to provide additional support or improve nasal contours. These grafts may be obtained from the nasal septum, ear, or rib, depending on the procedure.
- Supporting the nose after surgery: At the end of the procedure, internal nasal splints or packing may be placed when necessary. An external thermoplastic splint is commonly applied to protect and support the nose during early healing. A small gauze dressing may also be positioned beneath the nostrils to absorb minor drainage.
What Happens Immediately After Rhinoplasty?
After surgery, you will gradually wake up from anesthesia in the recovery area, where our medical team will monitor your condition.
Depending on the procedure and your recovery, you may be able to leave the clinic later that day with a responsible adult accompanying you. Some patients may require an overnight stay.
You should not drive after general anesthesia or plan a long journey immediately after surgery.
If you are traveling from outside Novi Sad, we recommend arranging accommodation in the city or nearby until your initial postoperative checkups have been completed.
When Are the Follow-Up Appointments?
First Follow-Up: 3–5 Days After Surgery
Your first postoperative appointment is usually scheduled three to five days after surgery.
During this visit, the surgeon will examine your nose and may remove any nasal packing that was placed during the procedure.
Many patients experience noticeable relief after packing is removed, particularly if it has caused pressure or difficulty breathing through the nose.
However, nasal packing is not necessary in every rhinoplasty procedure. Its use depends on the surgical technique and the patient’s individual needs.
Second Follow-Up: 7–8 Days After Surgery
The second appointment usually takes place approximately seven to eight days after surgery.
At this stage, the external splint may be removed, along with any sutures that require removal.
You may already begin to see the general shape of your new nose, although swelling and bruising are still common.
The degree of swelling varies depending on the extent of surgery and individual healing characteristics.
Many patients feel comfortable returning to social activities within approximately two weeks, once the most visible bruising and swelling have improved.
Strenuous exercise should generally be avoided for several weeks, and your surgeon will advise when it is safe to resume specific activities.
Contact sports and activities that could result in a blow to the nose may need to be avoided for several months.
Is Rhinoplasty Painful?
Rhinoplasty is usually performed under general anesthesia, so you will not feel pain during the operation.
After surgery, many patients describe the sensation as pressure, congestion, or discomfort rather than severe pain.
However, pain levels vary from person to person and depend on the extent of the procedure.
Any postoperative pain can often be managed with medication prescribed or recommended by your medical team.
If you experience severe or worsening pain, particularly if it is accompanied by significant swelling, fever, or other unusual symptoms, contact your surgeon promptly.
How Can You Make Rhinoplasty Recovery Easier?
Following your surgeon’s postoperative instructions is essential for a comfortable recovery and proper healing.
- Choose soft, easy-to-chew foods during the first day or two if chewing feels uncomfortable.
- Avoid very hot baths, steam rooms, and excessive heat during the early recovery period.
- Apply cold compresses to the cheeks or around the eyes, if recommended, without placing pressure directly on the nose.
- Keep your head elevated when resting or sleeping to help reduce swelling.
- Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding nasal hygiene, saline sprays, and breathing through your nose.
What Should You Avoid After Rhinoplasty?
- Avoid bending forward excessively during the first several days.
- Do not blow your nose forcefully until your surgeon confirms that it is safe.
- Avoid excessive facial movements that cause discomfort or place tension on the healing tissues.
- Brush your teeth gently during the initial recovery period.
- Avoid pulling tight clothing over your head.
- Do not participate in strenuous exercise or sports until medically cleared, often for several weeks.
- Avoid contact sports and activities that could injure your nose until your surgeon confirms that healing is sufficient.
- Avoid resting eyeglasses or sunglasses directly on the nasal bridge until your surgeon allows it. Depending on the surgical technique, temporary alternative support or adjustments may be recommended.
What Are the Risks of Rhinoplasty?
As with any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty involves certain risks and potential complications.
Possible complications include:
- Bleeding or infection
- Persistent swelling or nasal congestion
- Breathing difficulties or nasal obstruction
- Temporary or persistent changes in nasal sensation
- Asymmetry or irregularities in nasal contour
- Scarring or delayed wound healing
- Changes in the sense of smell
- Unsatisfactory aesthetic results or the need for revision surgery
- Complications associated with anesthesia
Choosing a qualified, experienced plastic surgeon and following the recommended preoperative and postoperative instructions can help reduce certain risks, although complications cannot be completely eliminated.
It is also important to understand that rhinoplasty can significantly change the way you perceive your facial appearance.
Adjusting to these changes may take time, especially while swelling is present and the final result is still developing.
Some patients experience temporary emotional ups and downs during recovery. Having realistic expectations and a supportive environment can make this adjustment easier.
If you experience persistent emotional distress or concerns about your recovery, speak with your healthcare provider.
If you notice any unusual symptoms or have concerns following surgery, do not hesitate to contact Clinic Olymp. Our team is here to support you throughout your recovery.
When Will You See the Final Results of Rhinoplasty?
Once the external splint is removed, usually after approximately seven to eight days, you may begin to see the initial shape of your new nose.
However, swelling will still be present, and the nose will continue to change as healing progresses.
Much of the visible swelling typically improves during the first several weeks or months, but subtle swelling, particularly around the nasal tip, can persist considerably longer.
The final results of rhinoplasty often take 12 months or longer to fully develop.
The exact healing timeline depends on factors such as skin thickness, surgical technique, the extent of the procedure, and individual recovery characteristics.
Choosing an experienced surgeon who understands both nasal aesthetics and function is an important part of planning rhinoplasty.
At Clinic Olymp, rhinoplasty procedures are performed by Dr. Predrag Matejin, an experienced plastic surgeon who takes an individualized approach to each patient’s facial features and treatment goals.
If you are considering rhinoplasty, contact us to arrange a free consultation and discuss your options.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost?
The final cost of rhinoplasty is determined following a consultation and in-person examination.
Prices may vary depending on the complexity of the procedure, the surgical technique required, and the patient’s individual needs.
The following are indicative prices listed by Clinic Olymp at the time this article was originally published:
- Rhinoplasty (nose surgery): €2,500
- Nasal tip surgery: €1,500
- Septoplasty (deviated septum correction): €1,500
- Non-surgical rhinoplasty with hyaluronic acid fillers: €250–€350
Please note that these are historical indicative prices and may no longer reflect current rates. Contact Clinic Olymp for an up-to-date, personalized quotation.
Payment can be made in cash or by card.
Installment payment options may be available through eligible credit cards issued by Banca Intesa in Serbia or through an employer-administered salary deduction arrangement, subject to current terms and eligibility.
If you would like to learn more about rhinoplasty, watch the following videos in which Dr. Matejin explains different aspects of the procedure:
Visit our dedicated procedure page to learn more about Rhinoplasty and Septorhinoplasty.
