What is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is plastic surgery that changes the shape and appearance of the nose, and it can be done for cosmetic reasons or to ease breathing difficulties. Common reasons include repairing a deviated septum or addressing a nose that looks disproportionate to the rest of the face. The nose is made of cartilage and bone, and each procedure is individually tailored to a person’s unique features and goals.
What does a rhinoplasty procedure involve?
“No two noses are the same, so no two rhinoplasties are. Cartilage, bone and skin all behave differently — the plan has to fit the individual nose and the face around it.”
— Dr Ong Wei Chen, Senior Consultant Plastic Surgeon
Rhinoplasty is customised to each patient, so the exact steps differ, but it generally involves reshaping cartilage and bone and, where needed, adding cartilage or implants. Two main approaches are used:
- Closed rhinoplasty — all incisions are made inside the nostrils, suitable for minor adjustments, with no external scar.
- Open rhinoplasty — an incision across the columella (the strip between the nostrils) gives better access for more extensive reshaping.
Excess cartilage may be trimmed, a prominent bridge corrected with bone surgery, or cartilage grafts and implants added to build shape.
What is recovery from rhinoplasty like?
After rhinoplasty, swelling is present for around four to six weeks, with most settling by about three months, and the full result becomes apparent roughly a year after all swelling resolves. The wound itself typically heals within one to two weeks. Avoiding nose-blowing, limiting facial movement early on and avoiding strenuous activity for four to six weeks support healing. Dr Ong Wei Chen reviews recovery at follow-up appointments at Gleneagles Medical Centre.
Can rhinoplasty improve breathing as well as appearance?
Yes — rhinoplasty can be functional as well as cosmetic, correcting problems such as a deviated septum or nasal-passage issues that affect breathing. Where there are airway concerns, the surgery may be performed together with an ENT surgeon. A functional indication can also affect insurance eligibility. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses both the appearance and the function of the nose at consultation and tailors the plan to your anatomy and goals.
FREQUENT ASKED QUESTIONS
Who is a suitable candidate for rhinoplasty in Singapore?
Rhinoplasty suits people who want to adjust the shape of their nose for aesthetic reasons, or to improve breathing affected by a deviated septum or other nasal deformity. Where breathing or airway issues are involved, the surgery can be done with an ENT surgeon. A consultation and examination confirm suitability. Dr Ong Wei Chen assesses each patient at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery, Gleneagles Medical Centre.
What is the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty makes all incisions inside the nostrils and leaves no external scar, suiting minor adjustments; open rhinoplasty adds a small incision across the columella for better access during more extensive reshaping. The right approach depends on how much reshaping is needed and the structure of your nose. Dr Ong Wei Chen advises which is appropriate after examining your nose at consultation.
Will rhinoplasty leave a scar?
Closed rhinoplasty leaves no visible scar because all incisions are inside the nostrils, while open rhinoplasty involves a small external incision on the columella that is usually minimal. Careful, meticulous wound closure and post-operative care support healing, and the clinic advises on scar management. The result depends on individual healing. Dr Ong Wei Chen explains the expected scarring before surgery.
Can rhinoplasty be claimed under Medisave or insurance in Singapore?
Rhinoplasty performed purely to improve appearance is considered cosmetic and is generally not claimable, but when done for a functional reason — such as correcting breathing difficulty — it may be considered medical. WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery can assist with direct insurance e-filing and Medisave claims where eligible. Coverage depends on the assessment and your policy, so confirm with your insurer beforehand.
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Dr Ong is a fully accredited Singapore plastic surgeon. She currently practices at WC Ong Plastic Reconstructive Surgery at Gleneagles Medical Centre, serving patients in all Parkway hospitals and Mount Alvernia Hospital. Under the competent and experienced hands of one of the best female plastic surgeons in Singapore, you can be assured of quality care and treatment.
