For anyone considering undergoing cosmetic rhinoplasty, it's important to realise that surgery to improve aesthetics of the nose may have a detrimental effect on the function of nose. Breathing problems can occur soon after or in many cases years after the initial surgery. Steps can be taken during your surgery to prevent this or to improve your breathing.

It's imperative that your rhinoplasty surgeon is qualified and highly specialises in both functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty.

Dr Ha uses an open rhinoplasty approach. Incisions are made inside the nostrils and a small incision is made across the bottom of the nose (trans-collumella). This incision heals extremely well and is very difficult to detect in the long term. Dr Ha prefers to perform an "structured" rhinoplasty. This is a complex technique utilising the patients own cartilage to attain and maintain the ideal aesthetic and functional outcomes.

Rhinoplasty or Rhino-septoplasty means re-shaping the nose and straightening the internal nasal septum to improve the nasal airway. Most people consider having rhinoplasty for months before they ask for a referral. Rhinoplasty is performed for crooked noses following injury. At times there is no history of trauma. Regardless of the reason, it is a serious decision to undertake rhinoplasty surgery. All surgery can be associated with risks such as bleeding, infection, scarring, asymmetry, pain, bruising and swelling. There may be an undesirable cosmetic outcome or worsening function such as airway obstruction leading the need for revision surgery.

Possible risks and complications

• Bleeding
• Bruising
• Infection
• Scarring
• Watery nose
• Asymmetry
• Irregularities
• Graft or skin breakdown
• The need for revision surgery
• Suture extrusions
• Allergic reactions
• Nerve damage
• Anaesthetic complications

Rhinoplasty surgery is generally very well tolerated with minimal pain. Patients are usually advised to take 2 weeks off work or studies. Bruising varies between patients and usually subsides by 10 days, but may persist for up to 3 weeks. Dr Ha does not use nasal packs but an external plastic splint is usually worn for the first week. Patients may gradually return to exercise and active sports 2 weeks following surgery.

The aims of a rhinoplasty will vary immensely between patients. The most important aspect in gaining a successful result is to ensure that the aims of the surgeon are that of the patients. Dr Ha will carefully analyse all aesthetic and functional aspects of your nose and discuss these findings in detail with you.

Dr Ha will often use computer imaging software to assist in planning your surgery, to discuss the aims of surgery and potential final outcomes. It's important to realise that it is a computer simulation and actual results can and do vary.

The degree of improvement following a rhinoplasty depends upon the extent of the corrective work undertaken, the basic structure of your nose and skin, and whether you have had surgery previously. An obviously disfigured nose will often show dramatic results following surgery. On the other hand, correction of a slight bump or a slightly bulbous tip may offer more subtle results. The intention, after all, is not to create a nose that draws attention, but rather one that blends subtly into the overall appearance of your face. Dr Ha's philosophy is to deliver a nose that appears natural and un-operated.

It's impossible to give an exact overall cost for a rhinoplasty prior to a formal consultation. Individual patients needs will vary. The total cost of a rhinoplasty includes:

Surgeons fee — ranges between $15,000 to $18,000 (depending on the exact procedure required, complexity of the procedure and whether the rhinoplasty is a primary or revision procedure).

Anaesthetic fee — approximately $2400

Hospital costs — approximately $4000

GST must also be paid for cosmetic procedures.

If you have any breathing issues, a post-traumatic deformity or a birth defect then some of the hospital fee and anaesthetic fee may be covered by insurance, plus a part of your surgical fee. There will likely still be a significant out-of-pocket expense.

If your surgery is undertaken purely for aesthetic reasons, it is classified as a cosmetic procedure. Your health fund will not cover any costs of cosmetic surgery.