Chance of a major complication for rhinoplasty?

Question

Hi Doctors, I’ve been considering rhinoplasty for over 20 years and am now seriously looking into it. However, as a single parent, I’m particularly concerned about the risk of major complications, including death. Are there any statistics available on the probability of such complications? How does the risk of major complications with rhinoplasty compare to other plastic surgeries? Thanks!!

Guray Yesiladali, MD, FEBOPRAS · Answer

Your concern is very understandable, and it’s important to have clear information before moving forward.
Serious complications after rhinoplasty are extremely rare, but no surgical procedure is entirely risk-free. Published data suggest that major complications requiring intervention, such as significant bleeding, infection, problems with wound healing, septal hematoma or perforation, breathing difficulties, or anesthesia-related issues, occur in about 1–2% of rhinoplasty surgeries. These events are typically manageable with prompt treatment.
When compared with other plastic surgeries, rhinoplasty is considered a low-risk procedure. Larger body contouring operations such as abdominoplasty or high-volume liposuction carry higher systemic risks like blood clots or fluid shifts, while rhinoplasty has a safety profile more comparable to breast augmentation or eyelid surgery, both of which also show low rates of major complications.
It may help to know that much of the overall risk is related to anesthesia and the patient’s general health rather than the rhinoplasty itself. For healthy individuals, especially when surgery is performed in an accredited facility by a board-certified surgeon and anesthesiologist, the likelihood of a major complication is very low. You can also play an active role in minimizing risks: avoiding smoking before and after surgery improves healing and reduces anesthesia-related problems, staying well hydrated supports recovery, gentle walking after the operation helps circulation, and being transparent about any medications or supplements allows your surgical team to prepare the safest plan for you.
In summary, rhinoplasty is generally very safe, with an exceptionally low rate of major complications around 1–2%. Compared with larger body surgeries, it is considered lower risk, and good preparation together with healthy habits can further enhance safety.
I hope this provides some clarity. A consultation with your surgeon will give you the most reliable guidance tailored to your situation.
&mdash; Güray Yeşiladalı, MD

Caner Kacmaz, MD · Answer

Mortality rates for surgery as a whole are very low, around  0.85 per 100,000 surgeries. Rhinoplasty is a low risk surgery. The duration under general anesthesia is approximately 2-2,5 hours. Complication risk is also very low. However, of course even wisdom teeth removal has a chance of complications. That’s the reason we have a detailed consultation with you, including an anesthesiologist visit, prior to your surgery.

Oakley Smith, MD, FRCSC · Answer

Hi, It is better for you to consult with your facial plastic surgeon who can examine you and give you opinion based on examination. below 1%, it is like 1 in 250k or less.

Anil R. Shah, MD · Answer

Hello, 
Rhinoplasty is generally a safe and well-tolerated procedure when performed by a qualified and experienced facial plastic surgeon. While all surgeries carry some level of risk, major complications are extremely rare. Most concerns following rhinoplasty are minor and related to the healing process or aesthetic refinements rather than serious medical issues. With proper preoperative planning, an experienced surgical team, and good post-operative care, the likelihood of significant complications is very low. If you have any specific concerns, discussing them with your surgeon can help provide reassurance and clarity as you move forward with your decision. Best of luck!

Eric M. Joseph, MD · Answer

We have seen nasal bleeding anytime within the first 21 days after rhinoplasty surgery has been performed. In that regard, this is one of many reasons to keep your rhinoplasty specialist close to home. Thank you for this question, and I hope it helps! Sincerely, Dr Joseph

Ajaya Kashyap, MD · Answer

Thankyou for your query. Major risks and risk is to life are extremely unlikely and may have to do with anaesthesia. Rhinoplasties can be done under local blocks as well , if you are very concerned. Overall risks are minimal except for a possible need for a minor revision if you want further improvement. Please find an experienced board certified Plastic Surgeon who can examine you and help you with all your concerns. All the best!

Ronald J. Edelson, MD · Answer

It’s always scary to undergo surgery. However, on a statistical basis the risk of death is very low especially with a physician anesthesiologist  in attendance.

Jeffrey H. Spiegel, MD · Answer

The risk of major complications from rhinoplasty is very low. The specific risks you speak of (e.g. death) are related to rare anesthesia reactions.  However, in my office, rhinoplasty can be done with you fully awake using local anesthesia which should help reduce your concerns.

Richard G. Reish, MD, FACS · Answer

Hello and thank you for your question. When good technique is used and appropriate safety precautions are taken rhinoplasty is an extremely safe surgery. Make sure that your surgeon is operating in an accredited facility with a board certified anesthesiologist taking one-on-one of you.. I recommend that you seek consultation with a qualified board-certified rhinoplasty surgeon who can evaluate you in person.

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Best wishes and good luck.

Richard G. Reish, M.D.
Harvard-trained plastic surgeon

Rajaie Hazboun, MD, MBA · Answer

Thank you for posting your question here!My answer is based on the limited information provided , for a detailed and personalized plan please consult with your plastic surgeon in person.your concerns are valid and the prospect of a surgical complication sounds daunting. That being said surgical complications are more of a spectrum that ranges from the patient not being satisfied with their result to the other extreme that includes the prospect of death. In this day and age with all the advancements in medicine , anesthesia the chance of having a complication decreased significantly especially when the surgery is performed by well trained staff in an accredited center , that being said it's never zero. Where you fall on the spectrum will depend on many aspects including but not limited to your overall health and how extensive the surgery is going to be. I would encourage you to be open about your concerns with your surgeon and discuss the potential risks and benefit with them and only proceed when you are comfortable with it.I hope this helps, Best of luck!

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