07 Jul Rhinoplasty Perth: Cost, Recovery & What to Expect in 2026
Rhinoplasty in Perth costs between $10,000 and $20,000+ in total, depending on the complexity of the procedure and whether it includes functional correction for breathing problems. Most patients take 1 to 2 weeks off work, with the external nasal splint removed at around 7 days. Functional rhinoplasty to correct a deviated septum or nasal obstruction may be eligible for a Medicare rebate, while purely cosmetic rhinoplasty is not covered.
Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is one of the most technically demanding procedures in plastic surgery. Whether you are considering rhinoplasty to improve the appearance of your nose, correct a breathing problem, or both, this guide covers everything you need to know – from cost and Medicare eligibility to week-by-week recovery and choosing the right surgeon in Perth.
What Is Rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is surgery to reshape the nose. It can address both cosmetic concerns and functional problems. Common reasons patients seek rhinoplasty include:
- A nose that appears too large, too small, or disproportionate to other facial features
- A visible bump or hump on the bridge of the nose
- A nasal tip that is drooping, bulbous, upturned, or asymmetric
- Nostrils that are too wide or flared
- A crooked or off-centre nose following injury or trauma
- Difficulty breathing due to a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, or nasal valve collapse
- Congenital nasal deformity
Rhinoplasty can be performed for cosmetic reasons, functional reasons, or a combination of both in a single procedure.
Open vs Closed Rhinoplasty
There are two main surgical approaches to rhinoplasty. Your surgeon will recommend the approach best suited to your anatomy and goals.
Closed Rhinoplasty
In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nostrils. There are no visible external scars. This approach works well for patients who need minor refinements to the bridge or tip of the nose. Recovery may be slightly faster due to less tissue disruption.
Open Rhinoplasty
In open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made across the columella – the strip of skin between the nostrils – in addition to incisions inside the nose. This allows the surgeon to lift the skin and directly visualise the nasal framework, providing greater precision and control. Open rhinoplasty is typically preferred for more complex cases, including significant tip reshaping, revision rhinoplasty, or combined functional and cosmetic work. The small external incision heals to a fine line that is virtually invisible within a few months.
Functional vs Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
Understanding the distinction between functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty is important, particularly when it comes to Medicare eligibility and costs.
Cosmetic Rhinoplasty
Cosmetic rhinoplasty is performed to improve the appearance of the nose without a medical indication. This is considered an elective procedure and is not covered by Medicare or private health insurance.
Functional Rhinoplasty
Functional rhinoplasty corrects structural problems that obstruct nasal breathing. Common functional issues include:
- Deviated septum – the cartilage wall between the nasal passages is crooked, blocking airflow on one or both sides
- Nasal valve collapse – the internal or external nasal valve narrows during breathing, restricting airflow
- Enlarged turbinates – the bony structures inside the nose become swollen and obstruct the nasal passage
- Post-traumatic deformity – the nose has been broken or damaged, causing both cosmetic asymmetry and functional impairment
Many patients have both cosmetic and functional concerns. In these cases, your surgeon can address both during a single operation, combining septoplasty or turbinate reduction with cosmetic reshaping of the external nose.
How Much Does Rhinoplasty Cost in Perth?
The total cost of rhinoplasty in Perth typically ranges from $10,000 to $20,000+. Here is a general breakdown:
- Surgeon’s fee: $6,000 to $10,000 – varies based on complexity (primary vs revision, cosmetic only vs combined functional-cosmetic)
- Anaesthetist fee: $1,500 to $3,000 – rhinoplasty usually takes 2 to 3 hours under general anaesthesia
- Hospital or day surgery fee: $2,000 to $4,000 – includes operating theatre, nursing staff, and recovery stay
- Additional costs: Nasal splints, dressings, prescription medications, and pre-operative assessments (typically $200 to $500 combined)
Revision rhinoplasty (a second operation to correct or refine the result of a previous rhinoplasty performed elsewhere) is generally more complex and therefore more expensive than a primary rhinoplasty.
Medicare and Private Health Insurance
Medicare does not cover cosmetic rhinoplasty. However, functional rhinoplasty may be eligible under Medicare item numbers including:
- Item 416714 – Septoplasty (correction of a deviated septum)
- Item 45641 – Rhinoplasty for correction of nasal obstruction due to post-traumatic deformity or congenital anomaly
If a Medicare item number applies, your private health insurance may also cover a portion of the hospital fee, depending on your level of cover. A GP referral is required, and your specialist surgeon will assess whether your case meets the clinical criteria for Medicare eligibility during your consultation.
For combined functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty, the functional component may attract a Medicare rebate while the cosmetic component remains a private out-of-pocket cost.
Recovery Timeline: Week by Week
Rhinoplasty recovery is well-tolerated by most patients. Here is what to expect:
Day 1 to 3: Rest and Recovery
You will go home the same day or the following morning. An external nasal splint is applied to protect the nose and maintain its new shape. Internal splints or soft packing may also be placed. Expect moderate swelling and bruising around the nose and under the eyes. Sleep with your head elevated on two pillows to reduce swelling. Pain is usually mild and well-controlled with prescribed medication.
Day 7 to 10: Splint Removal
The external splint and any internal splints are removed at approximately 7 days. You will begin to see the early shape of your new nose, though swelling will still be present. Most bruising has faded by this point, and many patients feel comfortable returning to sedentary work or working from home.
Week 2 to 3: Returning to Normal Activities
Most visible bruising has resolved. Swelling continues to reduce, though the nose may still look slightly puffy, particularly at the tip. You can return to office-based work if you have not already. Avoid blowing your nose forcefully. Glasses should not be rested on the bridge of the nose for 4 to 6 weeks.
Week 4: Light Exercise Resumes
Walking and light lower-body exercise can be resumed. Avoid any activity that risks impact to the nose, including bending over, heavy lifting, or contact sports.
Week 6 to 8: Return to Full Activity
Most patients can return to full exercise, including running and gym workouts, at 6 weeks. Contact sports (football, basketball, martial arts) should be avoided for 8 to 12 weeks. Swimming is usually safe at 4 to 6 weeks once the surgeon confirms healing is progressing well.
3 to 24 Months: Final Result
Most patients see the majority of their results within 3 months, with the last 10 to 20 percent of swelling at the tip of the nose resolving over up to 24 months. This residual swelling is particularly common in patients with thicker nasal skin and is usually only noticeable to you and your surgeon, not to others. The final rhinoplasty result is typically fully visible at around 24 months.
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, rhinoplasty carries risks. A specialist plastic surgeon will discuss these with you in detail during your consultation. Potential risks include:
- Bleeding (epistaxis) – usually minor and self-limiting
- Infection – uncommon with appropriate antibiotic prophylaxis
- Asymmetry – minor asymmetry is common and may improve as swelling resolves
- Breathing difficulties – temporary swelling can obstruct breathing in the first few weeks; persistent obstruction is rare
- Numbness at the nasal tip – usually temporary, resolving over several months
- Scarring – minimal with closed rhinoplasty; the open rhinoplasty columella scar typically heals to near-invisibility
- Need for revision surgery – approximately 5 to 10 percent of rhinoplasty patients seek a secondary procedure to refine the result
Choosing a FRACS-qualified specialist plastic surgeon with significant rhinoplasty experience reduces the risk of complications and the likelihood of revision surgery.
Choosing a Rhinoplasty Surgeon in Perth
Rhinoplasty is widely considered one of the most technically challenging procedures in plastic surgery. The nose is a complex three-dimensional structure where even millimetre-level changes in cartilage and bone affect both appearance and function. Choosing an experienced surgeon is critical.
When selecting a rhinoplasty surgeon in Perth, look for:
- FRACS (Plas) qualification – confirms specialist training in plastic and reconstructive surgery
- Significant rhinoplasty experience – ask how many rhinoplasties the surgeon performs each year
- Hospital privileges at accredited facilities – indicates independent credentialing
- AHPRA specialist registration – verify at ahpra.gov.au
- Membership of ASPS and ASAPS – peer-reviewed professional bodies that only admit FRACS-qualified plastic surgeons
Dr Paul Quinn is a specialist plastic surgeon (FRACS Plas) with over 20 years of surgical experience, including advanced specialist training in the United Kingdom with an interest in breast and hand surgery. He was awarded the Australasian Gordon-Gordon Taylor gold medal for the first part of the surgical fellowship examination. Dr Quinn performs rhinoplasty at accredited hospitals in Perth and takes the time to develop a personalised surgical plan for each patient.
Book a Consultation
Book a consultation with Dr Paul Quinn to discuss your options. Whether you are considering rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons, to improve your breathing, or both, Dr Quinn will assess your nose, discuss what is achievable, explain the surgical approach, and provide a comprehensive quote.
To book, contact Quinn Plastic Surgery on (08) 9388 8886 or visit quinnplasticsurgery.com.au. A GP referral is required.
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does rhinoplasty cost in Perth?
Rhinoplasty in Perth typically costs between $10,000 and $20,000+ in total, including surgeon, anaesthetist, hospital, and materials. The cost depends on whether the procedure is cosmetic, functional, or both, and whether it is a primary or revision rhinoplasty. A personalised quote is provided after consultation.
How long does rhinoplasty recovery take?
Most patients take 1 to 2 weeks off work. The nasal splint is removed at approximately 7 days. Visible bruising resolves within 2 to 3 weeks. Light exercise resumes at 4 weeks and full contact sport at 8 to 12 weeks. Most of the result is visible within 3 months, with final results developing over up to 24 months as the last of the swelling at the nasal tip resolves.
Does Medicare cover rhinoplasty in Australia?
Medicare does not cover cosmetic rhinoplasty. However, functional rhinoplasty to correct a deviated septum, nasal obstruction, or post-traumatic deformity may be eligible under Medicare item numbers 416714 or 45641. Your specialist plastic surgeon can assess whether your case qualifies during consultation.
What is the difference between open and closed rhinoplasty?
Closed rhinoplasty uses incisions only inside the nostrils, leaving no visible scars. Open rhinoplasty adds a small incision across the columella (tissue between the nostrils), giving the surgeon greater visibility for complex cases. The columella incision heals to a virtually invisible scar. Your surgeon will recommend the best approach for your anatomy.
Can rhinoplasty fix breathing problems?
Yes. Functional rhinoplasty can correct a deviated septum, nasal valve collapse, enlarged turbinates, and post-traumatic deformities that impair breathing. Functional and cosmetic rhinoplasty can often be combined in a single procedure.
What age can you get rhinoplasty in Australia?
Rhinoplasty is generally recommended once the nose has finished growing – around age 16 for girls and 17 to 18 for boys. Patients under 18 require a minimum 7-day cooling-off period and a psychological assessment under Australian regulations for cosmetic procedures. Functional rhinoplasty for breathing obstruction can be performed earlier if medically indicated.
How do I choose the right rhinoplasty surgeon in Perth?
Look for FRACS (Plas) qualification, significant rhinoplasty experience, hospital privileges at accredited facilities, AHPRA specialist registration, and membership of ASPS and ASAPS. Rhinoplasty is one of the most technically demanding procedures in plastic surgery, so the surgeon’s specific experience and training matters significantly.
Will rhinoplasty leave visible scars?
Closed rhinoplasty leaves no visible scars as all incisions are inside the nostrils. Open rhinoplasty involves a small incision across the columella that typically heals to a fine, barely visible line within a few months. Your surgeon will discuss which approach is most appropriate for your case.
