Rhinoplasty Surgery Sydney

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is an operation on the nose that changes its structure and appearance, and in some cases may be combined with procedures to address functional issues such as nasal obstruction.

The procedure can involve modifying the nasal bones, cartilage and soft tissues to achieve more balanced proportions with the rest of the face, while also considering breathing and airway support.

Rhinoplasty is considered cosmetic surgery when the primary aim is to change the appearance of a normal nose, and reconstructive when it seeks to restore normal form and function after trauma, cancer surgery or congenital deformity.

For an overview of other procedures offered, you can also visit the plastic surgery procedures page.

How is rhinoplasty performed?

The surgical approach and techniques used in rhinoplasty are tailored to each person, based on nasal anatomy, facial proportions, functional concerns and the aims discussed in consultation.

Rhinoplasty may be performed using an open (external) or closed (endonasal) approach, or a combination of both, depending on the complexity of the surgery.

Open (external) rhinoplasty

In an open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made across the strip of skin between the nostrils (the columella), in addition to incisions inside the nose.

This allows the nasal skin to be gently lifted and the underlying structures to be directly visualised, which can assist with precise modification of the cartilage and bone, particularly in complex or revision cases.

Closed (endonasal) rhinoplasty

In a closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are placed inside the nostrils so there is no external incision on the columella.

This approach may be appropriate for selected patients and can be associated with shorter operating times and less early swelling in some cases; however, suitability depends on the changes required and nasal anatomy.

Cartilage grafts and structural support

In primary rhinoplasty, the surgeon may work mainly with existing nasal structures, while preserving or reinforcing support to maintain long‑term shape and airway function.

In revision or more complex rhinoplasty, additional cartilage grafts may be required from the nasal septum, ear or rib to rebuild or support parts of the nose where tissue is weak, missing or scarred.

More details on related facial procedures are available on the face procedures page.

Open vs closed rhinoplasty compared

An open approach can be helpful when more direct access is needed, such as complex nasal tip reshaping, revision surgery or structural support work. A closed approach may be appropriate for selected patients where the required changes can be safely achieved through internal incisions. You can read more about open rhinoplasty and how the technique may be used in selected cases.

Types of rhinoplasty

There are several types of rhinoplasty. The recommended approach depends on the reason for surgery, the anatomy of the nose, previous procedures, functional concerns and the changes being considered.

Some of these are covered in more detail on the septorhinoplasty and tip plasty pages, and in our guide to revision rhinoplasty.

Ethnic rhinoplasty

Ethnic rhinoplasty refers to rhinoplasty planned with careful attention to a patient’s existing nasal structure, skin thickness, cultural background and overall facial harmony. The goal is not to create a standardised nose shape but to plan surgery in a way that respects the individual’s anatomy and identity. Further discussion is available in this article on ethnic rhinoplasty considerations.

What can rhinoplasty address?

Rhinoplasty may be considered by adults who are concerned about the appearance of their nose, have functional breathing issues related to nasal structure, or require reconstruction after injury or disease; suitability is assessed individually.

Cosmetic nasal concerns

Depending on your anatomy and goals, rhinoplasty may be used to address specific appearance‑related concerns, such as:

• A prominent hump or depression on the nasal bridge.
• A drooping, bulbous, under‑rotated or over‑projected nasal tip (Tip Plasty & Tip Rhinoplasty).
• A nose that appears disproportionately large or small in relation to other facial features.
• Asymmetry in nasal shape, noting that perfect symmetry is uncommon in nature.
• A visibly crooked or twisted nose, often related to underlying deviation of the nasal framework.
• Flattening or loss of height of the bridge (sometimes called saddle nose) due to trauma, previous surgery or other causes.
• Wide or flared nostrils, when reduction is appropriate and safe for airway function.

Functional and reconstructive indications

Rhinoplasty and related nasal procedures can also be considered where there is a functional or reconstructive indication:

• Breathing difficulties related to a deviated septum or other internal structural narrowing (often treated with septorhinoplasty sydney and associated procedures).
• Defects of the nose following skin cancer surgery or other cancer treatments.
• Nasal deformities after facial trauma, such as fractures or lacerations.
• Congenital nasal deformities or developmental irregularities.

It is important to note that not every concern can be fully corrected and that individual outcomes vary based on anatomy, tissue healing and other personal factors.

Who may be a candidate for rhinoplasty in Sydney?

Adults considering rhinoplasty in Sydney will undergo a comprehensive assessment to determine whether the procedure is appropriate and whether expectations are realistic.

This assessment typically includes a medical history, physical examination of the nose and face, discussion of goals, and screening for psychological conditions such as body dysmorphic disorder using a validated tool, as required by current cosmetic surgery guidelines.

Rhinoplasty is not suitable for everyone; alternative options, or no surgery, may be recommended where surgery is unlikely to provide a meaningful or safe benefit.

For an overview of how rhinoplasty sits among other offerings, see the face procedures by Dr Mohaghegh page.

What does the rhinoplasty procedure involve?

Rhinoplasty is usually performed in an accredited hospital or day surgery facility under general anaesthesia, with monitoring by a specialist anaesthetist.

Incisions are made either inside the nostrils (closed approach – if you’re considering a alarplasty & nostril surgery in sydney, view our page) or across the columella combined with internal incisions (open approach), and the underlying nasal framework is adjusted to achieve the agreed surgical plan.

The operation duration varies depending on the complexity of the case, whether it is a primary or revision rhinoplasty, and whether functional procedures such as septoplasty or turbinate surgery are performed at the same time.

At the end of the procedure, internal splints or packs may be used in some cases, and a small external splint is often placed to support the nose during early healing.

What Rhinoplasty Costs in Sydney

Rhinoplasty surgery costs in Sydney vary based on the complexity of the procedure, the surgical technique used, and whether functional components (such as septoplasty) are included.

A personalised quote is provided after your consultation. The above ranges are indicative and vary by patient.

What affects the cost of rhinoplasty?

The cost of rhinoplasty varies because every operation is different. A simple price estimate may not reflect the complexity of the procedure, hospital requirements, anaesthesia, revision status or whether functional work is required.

What’s Included

Dr Mohaghegh’s rhinoplasty fee typically includes:

• Surgeon’s fee
• Post-operative follow-up appointments
• Nasal splint and dressings

Not included, and quoted separately:

• Anaesthetist fee
• Accredited hospital and theatre fees

Medicare & Private Health Insurance

Purely cosmetic rhinoplasty is not covered by Medicare. If your surgery includes a functional component — for example, correction of a deviated septum causing breathing difficulty — you may be eligible for a Medicare rebate under applicable MBS item numbers. Private health insurance may contribute to hospital costs depending on your level of cover.

Exact eligibility is assessed during your consultation. We recommend contacting your health fund before surgery to confirm your coverage.

Consultation Fee

Initial consultation: $400. With a valid GP referral, a Medicare rebate of approximately $86 may apply (if you have a GP referral).

Risks and possible complications of rhinoplasty

All surgery, including rhinoplasty and septoplasty, involves risks and potential complications, even when performed by a specialist plastic surgeon in an accredited facility.

General surgical and anaesthetic risks can include, but are not limited to, bleeding, infection, pain, delayed healing, adverse reactions to anaesthesia, blood clots, and issues related to scarring.

Risks more specific to nasal surgery may include persistent swelling, numbness, asymmetry, septal perforation, breathing difficulties, altered sense of smell, dissatisfaction with the cosmetic appearance, or the need for further surgery (revision) in some cases.

During your consultations, the surgeon will provide more detailed information about the risks relevant to you, and you will have the opportunity to ask questions before deciding whether to proceed.

Rhinoplasty Recovery Timeline

Recovery is individual, but the following milestones represent a typical post-operative progression for rhinoplasty patients at Dr Mohaghegh’s Sydney practice.

First 24–48 Hours

• A nasal splint or cast is applied to protect and support the new nasal shape
• Cold compresses are recommended to minimise swelling around the eyes and cheeks
• Rest is essential — keep your head elevated, even while sleeping
• You will likely feel congested, as though you have a heavy cold

Days 2–3

• Bruising and swelling typically peak during this period, then begin to subside
• Mild discomfort is normal and managed with prescribed medication
• Light walking around the house is encouraged; no bending or lifting

Days 5–7

• Your first post-operative visit: the nasal splint and any external stitches are removed
• Most bruising resolves by day 10
• You may feel comfortable appearing in public, though subtle swelling remains

Week 2

• Most patients return to non-physical work and light daily activities after 7–10 days
• Swelling continues to decrease; the nose begins to reveal its new shape
• Avoid blowing your nose

Week 4

• You may gradually resume light exercise
• Avoid vigorous activity, bending, or heavy lifting
• Continue to protect your nose from impact

Week 6

• Contact sports and activities with risk of nasal impact should still be avoided
• Most swelling has resolved, though minor changes continue

Months 3–6

• The nasal tip and bridge continue to refine as deeper swelling resolves
• The nose feels more natural and integrated with your facial features

12 Months

• Final result is typically visible — subtle improvements may continue beyond this point
• Scarring (if open technique was used) has faded to a fine, inconspicuous line

Dr Mohaghegh will provide you with personalised post-operative instructions tailored to your specific procedure.

Rhinoplasty results and expectations

Rhinoplasty aims to create a nose that is in better harmony with your facial features and, where appropriate, supports nasal function; however, results are not the same for everyone.

It is important to understand that individual outcomes vary due to anatomy, tissue quality, scarring, healing patterns and other factors beyond the surgeon’s control, and that no specific result can be guaranteed.

During consultation, realistic goals, limitations and potential trade‑offs will be discussed to help you make an informed decision.

To explore other face‑related procedures that may be discussed alongside rhinoplasty, you can review the facial procedures section.

Rhinoplasty gallery and further education

For patients considering nose surgery in Sydney, the practice provides a gallery of facial procedures to illustrate the types of changes that may be achieved in selected cases, along with clear information that individual results vary.

View the facial procedure image gallery

The practice blog also offers educational articles on rhinoplasty, including information on procedure types, factors that influence pricing, potential side effects, and recovery considerations; these resources are intended to supplement, not replace, a face‑to‑face consultation.

Further reading

• What is open rhinoplasty? Procedure steps, incisions and scars
• What to expect with open rhinoplasty
• Preservation rhinoplasty: open vs closed options
• What does dorsal hump removal involve in rhinoplasty?
• Exploring the nuances of ethnic rhinoplasty
• Everything you need to know about revision rhinoplasty
• Can rhinoplasty correct a crooked nose?
• Male rhinoplasty: anatomical and planning considerations
• Rhinoplasty risks and complications: questions to discuss before surgery
• Rhinoplasty recovery: what to expect
• How long does swelling last after rhinoplasty? A timeline

If you are exploring multiple treatments, you may also wish to visit the main Dr Mohaghegh home page for general information about the practice and services available.

Patient Safety & Regulatory Requirements

Dr Mohaghegh’s practice follows all AHPRA (Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency) requirements for cosmetic surgery, including the April 2026 patient safety regulations:

1. GP Referral Required — A valid referral from your general practitioner is required before your surgical consultation. This also enables Medicare rebate eligibility where applicable.
2. Two Consultations Minimum — You will attend at least two consultations with Dr Mohaghegh before any surgery is scheduled. The first consultation is a comprehensive assessment of your concerns, medical history, nasal anatomy, and goals. The second confirms your understanding of the procedure, risks, and expected outcomes.
3. 7-Day Cooling-Off Period — After your consultations and informed consent, a mandatory 7-day cooling-off period is required before booking surgery or paying a deposit. This ensures you have adequate time to consider your decision.
4. Psychological Screening — A medical and psychological history review is completed as part of your assessment, including screening for body dysmorphic disorder, in accordance with current cosmetic surgery guidelines.

All surgery carries risk. Individual results vary. The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute personal medical advice. A face-to-face consultation with Dr Mohaghegh is required to assess your suitability for rhinoplasty.

How to choose a rhinoplasty surgeon

When comparing rhinoplasty surgeons, it can be helpful to focus on objective criteria rather than superlatives. Look for clear information about qualifications, registration, the consultation process, risks, hospital access and the surgeon’s experience with both cosmetic and functional nasal concerns.

• Check Ahpra registration: confirm the doctor’s registration type and registration number on the Ahpra public register.
• Check specialist status: if applicable, confirm whether the doctor holds specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery.
• Understand qualifications clearly: FRACS (Plast) should be explained rather than stated without context, so patients understand the training pathway.
• Ask about rhinoplasty experience: including primary rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty and function-related nasal surgery where relevant.
• Ask where surgery is performed: including accredited hospitals or day surgery facilities and who provides anaesthesia.
• Review consultation quality: a good consultation should cover goals, limitations, risks, alternatives, recovery, costs and realistic expectations in a clear way.
• Review before-and-after information responsibly: if a gallery is available, it should use genuine patient images presented responsibly with clear warnings that results vary.

It is usually most useful to compare training, registration, risk discussion, communication style and whether the consultation supports informed decision-making. Marketing superlatives are not a reliable substitute for objective information.

Questions to ask before rhinoplasty

Before deciding whether to proceed with rhinoplasty, consider asking:

• Am I a suitable candidate for rhinoplasty?
• Are my concerns cosmetic, functional, reconstructive or a combination?
• Would septoplasty or another procedure be needed?
• Which approach may be more suitable for me, open or closed rhinoplasty?
• What are the main risks in my case?
• What can and cannot be changed safely?
• How long should I take off work or study?
• When can I return to exercise?
• What costs are included in the quote?
• Could Medicare or private health insurance apply to any part of the procedure?
• What follow-up care is included?
• What happens if I have concerns during recovery?

Frequently asked questions about rhinoplasty in Sydney

Is rhinoplasty right for me?

Whether rhinoplasty is appropriate for you depends on your nasal anatomy, overall health, expectations, and psychological suitability, which will be assessed during at least two pre‑operative consultations in line with current cosmetic surgery guidelines.

What is the difference between cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty?

Cosmetic rhinoplasty focuses on changing nasal appearance, while functional rhinoplasty and septoplasty address structural issues that affect breathing; in many cases, both aspects may be considered together.

How long is the recovery after nose surgery?

Most people plan at least one to two weeks off work or study for early recovery, but restrictions on strenuous activity and contact sports last longer; your individual plan will be discussed with you before surgery.

Are there non‑surgical rhinoplasty alternatives?

In some situations, non‑surgical (non-surgical rhinoplasty sydney) options such as dermal fillers can temporarily modify aspects of nasal contour; however, they do not reduce nasal size, do not address structural or breathing issues, and also carry risks that will be discussed in consultation if relevant.

How do I choose a rhinoplasty surgeon in Sydney?

In Australia, AHPRA guidelines recommend that patients considering cosmetic surgery check that their doctor is a registered medical practitioner and understand their type of registration and specialty.

Dr Mohammad Hassan Mohaghegh is a Specialist Plastic Surgeon (specialist registration in Surgery – Plastic Surgery) with experience in cosmetic and reconstructive procedures, including rhinoplasty.

You can learn more about the range of procedures via the procedures overview page.

Is rhinoplasty the same as a nose job?

Yes. “Nose job” is a common term for rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is the clinical term for surgery that changes the structure of the nose. It may be performed for cosmetic, functional or reconstructive reasons.

What is the difference between rhinoplasty and septoplasty?

Rhinoplasty changes the structure or appearance of the external nose and may also consider support and function. Septoplasty addresses the internal nasal septum, which may contribute to blocked nasal passages if it is deviated. When both are performed together, the operation may be called septorhinoplasty.

Does Medicare cover rhinoplasty in Australia?

Medicare does not usually apply to purely cosmetic rhinoplasty. In some cases, functional or reconstructive indications may be assessed for possible Medicare item numbers. Eligibility depends on clinical criteria and individual circumstances.

Can private health insurance cover rhinoplasty?

Private health insurance may contribute to eligible hospital or procedure costs in some medically indicated cases, depending on the policy and clinical circumstances. Patients should check directly with their insurer after receiving relevant item number information from the clinic where applicable.

When can I exercise after rhinoplasty?

Return to exercise should be guided by your surgeon. Strenuous activity is commonly avoided for several weeks, and contact sports or activities that risk nasal injury may need to be delayed longer.

When can I return to work after rhinoplasty?

Time off work depends on the procedure, swelling, bruising, comfort, job duties and individual healing. Many patients return to non-physical work and light daily activities after 7–10 days, while others may need longer, particularly for physical work.

Are rhinoplasty results permanent?

Surgical rhinoplasty aims for long-term structural change, but the nose can still change over time due to healing, ageing and injury. Non-surgical rhinoplasty results are temporary.

Rhinoplasty consultation with Dr Mohammad Mohaghegh

If you are considering rhinoplasty in Sydney, a consultation with Dr Mohammad Hassan Mohaghegh is the first step to discussing your concerns, medical history and treatment options.

Current cosmetic surgery regulations require at least two pre‑operative consultations, including at least one in‑person consultation with the surgeon who will perform the procedure, and a minimum cooling‑off period of seven days after providing informed consent before surgery can be booked or a deposit paid.

During your appointments, you will have the opportunity to ask questions, review educational materials, and consider whether rhinoplasty is the right choice for you.

The information on this page is general in nature and does not constitute personal medical advice.
A face‑to‑face consultation is required to determine whether rhinoplasty is appropriate for you and to discuss the potential benefits, risks, costs and alternatives in your situation.