What Are Potential Rhinoplasty Side Effects?

The vast majority of rhinoplasty surgeries are successful when performed by an experienced rhinoplasty surgeon, and there are little if any post-operative problems. It is important to differentiate rhinoplasty complications from side effects.
Side Effects

Nasal Obstruction: This is perhaps one of the most common "side effects" of rhinoplasty. A successful rhinoplasty should produce a nose that both looks good and functions well. With modern rhinoplasty techniques and an accurate analysis and diagnosis of the patient's nose before surgery, breathing problems can be avoided.
Displeasure with Cosmetic Appearance: Because the goal of a rhinoplasty is to change the shape of the nose, it is possible for the patient to be displeased with the appearance post-operatively -- even if there is not any real deformity or abnormality. The chances of this can be reduced by clearly communicating with your surgeon before surgery to convey your goals and expectations. Computer morphing (simulation) or tracings overlying your pre-operative photographs can help ensure that you and your surgeon are in agreement with the proposed result.

Complications

Bleeding: While rhinoplasty is generally not a , there is the risk for excessive bleeding - particularly post-operatively in the form of a nose bleed. Patients taking NSAID (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory medications such as ibuprofen, naproxen, aspirin), blood thinners, or those with a personal or family history of bleeding disorders are at higher risk.
Infection: Any surgery carries the risk of infection. With close attention to sterile techniques, this risk can be reduced.
Scarring: Obviously, an open rhinoplasty places a scar on the column of tissue between the nostrils. Usually this are heals well and the scar is not noticable at conversational distances. Scar bands can also occur on the inside of the nasal passages. These can block the airway and give rise to nasal obstruction
Deformity: Uneven edges of the boney/cartilaginous framework, over or under resection of the bridge, tip distortion, are just some of the many cosmetic deformities that result from rhinoplasty
Septal Perforation: If a tear forms in the lining of both sides of the septum, it is possible for a permanent hole to form. Usually, a septal perforation is not a significant problem, and the patient may not even be aware that it is there. When they are small, a whistling noise may be heard with respiration as the air rushes through the small hole. If large, the perforation can serve as a site for mucous to collect and form a crust. Septal perforations also have a tendency to contribute to nosebleeds.

Although rhinoplasty surgery is generally considered a safe operative procedure, complications can occasionally occur.  The vast majority of complications are related to dissatisfaction with aesthetic results.  Under these circumstances, revisional surgery may occasionally be necessary.
            Other areas of concern include bleeding, infection, anesthesia problems, scarring, asymmetry, airway problems and prolonged swelling.  Complications can be minimized by consulting a board certified plastic surgeon with experience performing this procedure.  In addition, the procedure should be performed in an accredited facility with a board certified anesthesiologist in attendance.  When these steps are taken, the procedure has a low complication rate.  Patients are noted to have excellent clinical results and high levels of patient satisfaction.

Excessive nasal bleeding may occur in approximately one percent of patients after rhinoplasty, and we have seen this within the first 21 days postoperative.Hope this helps. Dr Joseph