Rhinoplasty Compensation Guidelines: UK Law Explained

Rhinoplasty, more commonly known as a ‘nose job’, is a popular cosmetic procedure used to alter the nose's appearance. However, as with any cosmetic procedure, there is always a risk that something could go wrong.

If you have suffered complications due to an unsuccessful rhinoplasty caused by the negligence of your surgeon, or any other medical staff involved, you may be entitled to compensation. 

Rhinoplasty claims can be complicated as you will need to prove that any suffering that you have endured was caused by your surgeon and could have been avoided.

If you have suffered due to rhinoplasty negligence, you may be entitled to compensation.

Call Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors on 0808 273 2474, or fill in our online enquiry form and a member of our expert team will contact you at a time convenient for you. 

What is rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty, also known as a ‘nose job’ or nose reshaping, is a cosmetic procedure that can change the size or shape of your nose. This could mean altering the cartilage and bone, or reshaping the skin around your nose, sometimes a skin graft or implant is used.

However complex your rhinoplasty procedure is, your cosmetic surgeon has a duty of care. If you experience negligent practice, your surgeon could be liable. 

The NHS does not cover rhinoplasty for cosmetic reasons, but you may get a rhinoplasty procedure through the NHS for medical reasons, usually to help with breathing difficulties. 

Signs of a negligent rhinoplasty

Bad rhinoplasty is classed as anything that causes preventable damage or does not solve the issue at hand. A medical professional carrying out rhinoplasty procedures should have the correct qualifications and training to be performing the surgery. 

Bad rhinoplasty warning signs can be:

• Deformity
• Asymmetry
• Alar collapse
• A drooping or excessively upturned lip
• Excessive removal of cartilage
• Breathing difficulties
• Inappropriate scarring
• Failure to perform surgery in accordance with the patient’s consent 

It is vital that your surgeon informs you of any risks and complications that can arise during and after the procedure. It is important to note that negligence does not include you being unhappy with the look of your nose after the procedure.

If you do not like the look of your nose post-surgery, you should discuss this with your surgeon as soon as possible, as revision rhinoplasty may be an option. 

Can you sue a cosmetic surgeon in the UK?

If you have had rhinoplasty and your procedure has gone wrong due to cosmetic negligence, you may be able to make rhinoplasty negligence claims against the surgeon or the cosmetic practice. 

Rhinoplasty negligence claims can include amounts for a range of damages sustained as a result of rhinoplasty gone wrong. These can include: 

• General damages - this covers damages of general pain and suffering as a direct result of your rhinoplasty.
• Special damages - these could include: 
• Medical expenses - when rhinoplasty goes wrong, it could mean that you have had to pay for additional medical treatment.
• Travel costs - you can also include travel costs that you have incurred due to trips to further medical appointments.
• Care claim - if you have had to pay for care as a result of your rhinoplasty procedure.
• Loss of earnings - if you have had to have an extended period of time off work due to the rhinoplasty going wrong, you can claim for loss of earnings.

Find out more information here.

What evidence is used to make a claim?

To help build your claim, Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will require certain documents and evidence from you. Documents that may be required to build a case against your cosmetic surgeon include: 

• Pictures of bruising, swelling or damage to your nose/face
• Any records from the cosmetic surgeon involved with your rhinoplasty
• Proof of financial loss, such as time off work caused by long recovery time
• Medical results and scans that prove damage after surgery

How we can help

If you have experienced cosmetic negligence as a result of your rhinoplasty procedure, we are here to help. We were the first leading cosmetic claims solicitors in England and Wales, and our team has a 95% success rate after obtaining medical evidence.

Call us today on 0808 252 0175, or request a callback at a time convenient for you. 
 

Is it Ok to Sneeze After Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty surgery is a cosmetic procedure that alters the structure and appearance of the nose. During the healing process, the nasal tissues are extremely delicate and nose surgery patients should avoid doing anything that could risk damage while they are healing. Some patients may wonder whether sneezing episodes could affect their surgical outcome and may want to understand how to mitigate these risks.

This blog will outline what the risks of sneezing are on rhinoplasty results, what the signs of damage are and the actions patients can take to ensure a smooth healing process after nose reshaping surgery.

Is it ok to sneeze after rhinoplasty?

Sneezing after a nose job can put strain on the delicate nasal tissues as they heal. While it is not possible to completely avoid sneezing, taking precautions can help prevent complications. Forceful sneezing can lead to swelling, bleeding, or even changes in the results of the surgery. To minimise the impact, patients are advised to sneeze with their mouths open, which helps to reduce pressure on the nasal structures during sneezing.

During the initial weeks of recovery, the nose is particularly vulnerable. The internal structures are still settling, and any excessive force could disrupt healing. If sneezing becomes frequent due to allergies or irritants, consult a medical professional for advice on managing symptoms safely.

What advice should I follow when recovering from rhinoplasty?

Proper aftercare is essential for a successful rhinoplasty recovery. Patients should follow their surgeon’s guidance, which typically includes:

• Avoiding strenuous activities: heavy lifting, exercise and bending over can increase blood pressure and swelling.
• Keeping the head elevated: sleeping with the head propped up on pillows can help reduce swelling and improve circulation.
• Avoiding nose blowing: forceful nose blowing can disrupt healing and lead to complications such as bleeding.
• Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet: proper nutrition supports tissue repair.
• Following medication instructions: any prescribed pain relief or antibiotics should be taken as directed to aid healing and prevent infection.
• Avoid wearing glasses: given that glasses rest on the bridge of the nose, this can place pressure on the healing nasal structures that could affect the final surgical outcome. Surgeons may recommend that patients avoid glasses for a minimum of four to six weeks following surgery, opting for contact lenses where possible.

How do I know if I damaged my rhinoplasty because of sneezing?

If the nose experiences excessive force - whether from a sneeze or accidental impact - patients may be concerned about whether their rhinoplasty results have been affected. Signs of potential damage include:

• Sudden or increased swelling: some swelling is normal after surgery, but unexpected or prolonged swelling may indicate an issue.
• Persistent nasal pain: if discomfort worsens rather than improves, it could suggest internal irritation or damage to the nasal passages.
• Changes in nasal shape: any visible changes in symmetry or structure may be a sign that the healing process has been disrupted.
• Nasal bleeding: while minor spotting can occur, persistent or heavy bleeding should be evaluated by a medical professional.

If any of these signs appear, consult your surgeon promptly to assess whether additional care or adjustments are needed.

Recognising the signs of surgical complications

While sneezing can put strain on the healing nose and potentially affect rhinoplasty results, all cosmetic surgery carries some level of risk that could occur regardless if the patient sneezes or not. Rhinoplasty is no exception, and while complications are uncommon, they can sometimes occur even when patients carefully follow post-operative care instructions.

Patients should be aware of the warning signs that could indicate a complication, including:

• Persistent or worsening pain: discomfort that does not improve or suddenly worsens could indicate an issue with healing.
• Excessive swelling that does not subside: while some swelling is expected, prolonged or severe swelling beyond what was discussed could be a sign of fluid retention or another complication.
• Prolonged or heavy bleeding: minor spotting is normal in the early stages, but ongoing or excessive bleeding should be assessed by a medical professional.
• Difficulty breathing: some nasal congestion is expected in the immediate aftermath of rhinoplasty, however, if nasal airflow becomes significantly obstructed or breathing issues continue beyond what was expected, it may indicate internal swelling or a structural issue.
• Signs of infection: redness, warmth, unusual discharge or fever could indicate an infection that requires medical attention.
• Visible changes in nasal shape: if the nose appears asymmetrical or changes unexpectedly, there may be a disruption in the healing process.

Understanding your surgeon's duty of care

Your surgeon has a legal and ethical duty of care to ensure that procedures like rhinoplasty are carried out safely and to a reasonable standard. This duty extends from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, your safety and wellbeing at every stage.

Key responsibilities include:

• Providing full and accurate information: surgeons must explain the risks, benefits, and expected outcomes of rhinoplasty, allowing patients to make an informed decision.
• Conducting thorough pre-surgical assessments: a surgeon must evaluate a patient’s medical history, overall health, and suitability for the procedure.
• Following best medical practices: during surgery, the surgeon must adhere to industry standards and regulatory guidelines to minimise risks and complications.
• Ensuring proper post-operative care: patients should receive clear aftercare instructions, access to follow-up appointments, and prompt support if complications arise.
• Acting in the patient’s best interests: surgeons should never pressure individuals into undergoing surgery and must ensure patients have realistic expectations about their results.

Finding help if your surgeon was negligent

Should you believe that your surgeon performed your rhinoplasty surgery negligently, experts in rhinoplasty surgery claims such as Cosmetic Surgery Solicitors will be able to help you make a claim for compensation. Our friendly, knowledgeable team can help you to understand your rights, compile evidence needed to build a case and secure compensation on your behalf.

Speak to our team today by calling 0808 231 6370 or using our online contact form.