Rhinoplasty in Zurich
We specialize in rhinoplasty in Zurich. The goal is not a completely new nose, but a harmonious and balanced version of your own nose. Every nose surgery is planned individually - so that it fits perfectly with your face and your proportions.
The nose sits right in the middle of the face. Its influence on how we perceive a face is correspondingly great. Even small changes can make a clear difference. That is precisely why nose surgery is one of those procedures in which experience, a good eye for proportions and precise work are especially important.
Many people think about a rhinoplasty for a long time before they actually book a consultation. The questions are often similar: Will the new nose really suit my face later on? How uncomfortable are the first few days? When can I go back to work? And of course: What costs should I expect in Zurich?
There is not always a one-size-fits-all answer. No nose is anatomically exactly like another, and the reasons for an operation also differ. For some patients the shape is the priority, for others it is breathing. Often it is both.
Today, a variety of rhinoplasty methods are offered in Zurich. These include classic open and closed surgical techniques as well as piezo and preservation procedures. Which method makes sense, however, can only be judged once the nose has been examined and it is clear what is actually to be changed.
Dr. med. Simon Zimmermann and his team at Clinic Selnau (Swissnose) in Zurich specialize in rhinoplasty and accompany you from the first consultation to the last follow-up appointment.
Aesthetic or functional rhinoplasty?
Before planning, it should first be clarified why surgery is being considered at all. Does the shape of the nose bother you? Are there problems breathing? Or is it a combination of both?
This distinction is important not only for the operation. It also plays a role in the costs, because a medically necessary treatment is assessed differently under insurance law than a procedure carried out exclusively for aesthetic reasons.
Aesthetic rhinoplasty: correcting nasal shape and nasal tip
A pronounced nasal hump is one of the most common reasons for wanting a rhinoplasty. Other patients find their nose too wide, too long or too dominant in relation to the rest of the face. A drooping, broad or round-looking nasal tip can also be the reason for a consultation.
The point should not be to copy a particular "ideal nose." A nose can look beautiful on its own and still not suit a particular face.
During planning, the proportions of the entire face are therefore considered. These include the forehead, chin and cheeks, among other things, but also characteristics of the nose itself: How thick is the skin? How stable is the cartilage? How wide is the nasal bridge? How does the tip behave?
The goal is a change that fits into the face as naturally as possible.
Functional rhinoplasty: nasal breathing and nasal septum
Not every nose operation has an aesthetic background. Some patients seek out a specialist because they have trouble getting air through the nose.
One possible cause is a crooked nasal septum, medically called a septal deviation. But it is not the only one. Enlarged turbinates, changes in the area of the nasal valves or the consequences of older injuries can also impair nasal breathing.
That is why, before a functional operation, it should first be clarified where the complaints actually come from.
If, for example, the nasal septum is the cause, it can be corrected as part of a septoplasty. The focus here is on improving breathing. A visible change to the outer nose is not necessarily required in a purely functional septum operation.
Septorhinoplasty: treating form and function together
With the nose, however, aesthetics and function cannot always be separated. An outwardly crooked nose can, for example, be associated at the same time with a deviated nasal septum.
In such situations, a septorhinoplasty may be considered. In it, the inner functional structures and the outer shape are treated during the same operation.
This also makes sense from a surgical point of view: changes to the nasal framework can influence breathing, while a stable inner structure is in turn important for the outer shape. Both should therefore be planned together when both functional and aesthetic problems exist.
What methods of nose surgery are there?
Rhinoplasty has developed considerably in recent years. While traditional surgical techniques often worked in a more reductive way, modern procedures increasingly also follow structure-preserving approaches. Where the anatomy allows, existing structures are deliberately preserved, modified and stabilized.
That does not mean, however, that a modern technique is automatically the best for every patient. The choice of method depends on the individual nose and on what needs to be corrected.
Ultrasonic and piezo rhinoplasty
In a classic rhinoplasty, the nasal bone can be worked on with chisels, osteotomes or rasps, among other tools. In piezo rhinoplasty, special ultrasonic instruments are used for this.
Their advantage lies above all in the fact that bone can be worked on in a very controlled way. Surrounding soft tissue can be spared more than with some conventional methods.
This can also have an effect on the first period after the operation. In suitable procedures, swelling and bruising may be less pronounced. Especially when a bony hump or the bony nasal bridge is to be changed, the piezo technique offers the surgeon a very precise way of working.
It is not, however, a substitute for good surgical planning. What remains decisive is whether it brings any advantage at all for the particular correction.
Preservation rhinoplasty
In preservation rhinoplasty, the basic idea is already in the name: existing structures should be preserved as far as possible.
In a classic hump correction, the nasal bridge can be partially removed and then reshaped. Preservation techniques follow a different approach. Where anatomically possible, the natural structure of the nasal bridge remains largely intact and is changed, or lowered, in another way.
This can help to preserve natural contours. However, the procedure is not suitable for every nasal shape, nor for every desired change.
Whether a preservation rhinoplasty comes into question is therefore only shown at the examination. A technique should fit the nose – not the nose the technique.
Open or closed nose surgery
"Open or closed?" is a question that is often asked in consultations. At first, this refers only to the approach to the nose.
In a closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made inside the nostrils. There is therefore no additional incision line on the outside. For certain corrections, this approach can be entirely sufficient.
In an open rhinoplasty, a small incision on the columella is added. This allows the underlying structures to be exposed directly. Especially for more complex changes, pronounced asymmetries or revision operations, this additional overview can be helpful.
In many patients, the small scar on the columella becomes very inconspicuous over time.
Which variant makes more sense cannot be answered in general terms. An experienced surgeon decides this based on the anatomy and the planned changes.
The course of a nose operation in Zurich
The operation itself is only one part of the treatment. At least as important are the planning beforehand and the follow-up checks afterwards.
From the first consultation to the point at which the final result can be assessed, considerably more time therefore passes than many initially expect.
Initial consultation, examination and 3D simulation
It begins with a personal conversation. There should be enough time here to clarify what bothers the patient and what result they have in mind.
The examination follows. Not only the outer shape is assessed. If there are breathing complaints, the nasal septum, turbinates and other functionally relevant areas must also be examined.
For the aesthetic planning, photos from several perspectives are usually taken. Some practices also work with digital or three-dimensional simulations.
Such images can be very helpful in the conversation, because doctor and patient can talk more concretely about possible changes. They should, however, be understood for exactly what they are: a planning aid. A simulation is not a preview with a guarantee of the result.
Before the operation, pre-existing conditions, medications, allergies, previous injuries and any earlier nose operations must also be put on the table. Smoking should also be discussed, as it can influence wound healing.
Day of surgery: anesthesia and procedure
Most more extensive nose operations are performed under general anesthesia. For smaller procedures, depending on the situation, local anesthesia combined with sedation may also be an option.
How long the operation lasts depends on what has to be done. For many procedures you can roughly expect one and a half to three hours; complex revisions may need more time.
If the nasal septum has to be corrected at the same time, this part is also treated during the procedure. Bone and cartilage are then modified, repositioned or stabilized according to the prior planning.
The existing cartilage material is not always sufficient. If additional cartilage is needed, it can often be obtained from the nasal septum. In certain operations, material from the ear can be used. Rib cartilage is used more in more extensive reconstructions or revisions.
After the operation, a splint is often applied to the nose. Whether the patient can go home the same day or whether brief inpatient monitoring makes sense depends on the procedure and the particular treatment concept.
Healing process after nose surgery
The first days after a rhinoplasty are normally the most visible phase of healing. The nose is swollen, and depending on the surgical method, bruising may also form around the eyes.
An external splint often stays on the nose for about seven to ten days. After its removal, the nose naturally does not yet look "finished." A large part of the visible swelling does go down relatively quickly, but finer swelling remains much longer.
After about one to two weeks, many patients feel well enough again to be around other people or to return to work in an office job.
Sport is a different matter. Stronger physical exertion should be avoided in the early healing phase and resumed gradually later. How long a break makes sense depends on the procedure.
Pressure on the nasal bridge should also be avoided at first. If you wear glasses, you should discuss with the surgeon when they may rest on the nose normally again.
And then, above all, patience is needed. Especially at the nasal tip, slight swelling can remain visible or palpable for many months.
Planning your travel and stay
If you are not traveling from Zurich for the operation, you should plan not only for the day of surgery itself but also for the first follow-up checks, which are an integral part of the treatment. How long you actually have to stay on site cannot be determined in general terms – a smaller procedure requires different follow-up care than a septorhinoplasty or a complex revision.
Patients from abroad in particular should therefore clarify, even before booking flights and a hotel, when the first check-up takes place and from when the surgeon considers a longer trip or a return flight acceptable.
What does a nose operation cost in Zurich?
There are considerable differences in costs. A simple primary operation is something different from an extensive septorhinoplasty or a revision after a previous operation.
Aesthetic nose operations in Zurich are often in the five-figure range. For more complex procedures, the costs can be correspondingly higher.
A reliable, binding quote can therefore only be prepared once the nose has been examined and it is clear which procedure is actually necessary. You will find an overview of our prices and costs on our cost page.
Which factors influence the costs?
The total price does not consist only of the surgeon's fee. Depending on the offering, costs for anesthesia, operating room, medical staff, a possible clinic stay as well as pre- and post-operative check-ups are added.
An important factor is the surgical effort. Does only a limited area have to be changed, or are several structures affected? Is additional cartilage needed? Is it the first operation or a revision?
The surgeon's experience and specialization as well as the medical infrastructure also play a role in pricing.
When comparing prices, it is therefore worth taking a close look at which services are actually included in a quote.
When does health insurance cover the costs?
With a nose operation, a distinction must be made between medically necessary and purely aesthetic services.
An operation that serves exclusively to change appearance is in principle not covered by mandatory basic insurance.
It can look different when a proven functional disorder is present. If, for example, nasal breathing is impaired by a relevant septal deviation, a medically necessary treatment may, under certain conditions, be covered by the insurance.
In a combined septorhinoplasty, the functional and aesthetic parts can be assessed separately.
It is important to clarify the coverage of costs before the procedure. Depending on the situation, the insurer requires medical documents and a prior cost approval.
How do you find the right nose surgeon in Zurich?
When looking for a nose surgeon, you should not rely only on attractive before-and-after pictures.
Rhinoplasty is technically demanding. Bone, cartilage, mucous membrane and structures important for breathing lie in a very small space. At the same time, the outer shape should look harmonious in the end.
That requires experience – and specifically with nose operations. You can learn more about the background and specialization of Dr. med. Simon Zimmermann on his profile.
Specialist title and specialization
A recognized specialist title in plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgery or in ear, nose and throat medicine with corresponding experience in nasal surgery is an important first selection criterion.
After that, a closer look is worthwhile.
How strongly is the doctor actually specialized in rhinoplasty? Do nose operations form the focus of his work, or are they only performed occasionally alongside numerous other procedures?
Further training and membership in relevant professional societies can also give additional indications of professional focus.
In the end, a title alone says little about how often someone actually performs a particular procedure.
Experience with primary and secondary rhinoplasties
It is perfectly legitimate to ask about the surgeon's experience in the consultation. How often does he perform nose operations? Which procedures does he work with? Does he also operate on patients who have already had a rhinoplasty?
The last point in particular is interesting. A revision rhinoplasty is usually more demanding than a first operation. The tissue has already been altered, scars may be present, and sometimes cartilage that is needed for rebuilding is missing.
Regular experience with such procedures can therefore be an indication of a stronger specialization in nasal surgery.
Personal consultation and realistic expectations
A good consultation does not consist of immediately confirming every wish.
Sometimes a desired change is not anatomically sensible. Sometimes it would be technically feasible but would not fit harmoniously with the rest of the face. This is exactly what should be discussed before an operation.
The surgeon should be able to explain what he wants to change, why he recommends a particular technique and where the limits lie.
Risks and healing time also belong in this conversation. Those who understand after the consultation what is realistically achievable and what is not can decide on an operation on a much better-informed basis.
Risks and possible complications
A rhinoplasty is a plannable procedure, but it is still an operation. Risks can be reduced, not eliminated entirely.
A serious consultation therefore also includes a conversation about what can happen in the unfavorable case.
What risks are associated with nose surgery?
As with other operations, postoperative bleeding, infections, wound-healing disorders or problems related to anesthesia can occur.
In addition, there are risks that specifically concern the nose. These include, for example, changes in the sense of smell, injuries to the mucous membrane, a septal perforation, bothersome internal scars or irregularities of the nasal contour.
Breathing can also remain restricted despite a functional correction. And of course it cannot be guaranteed that the aesthetic result will correspond exactly to your expectations. Small asymmetries are also possible.
Careful planning, a suitable surgical technique and good follow-up care can reduce various risks. They cannot be ruled out entirely.
Additional factors such as smoking or certain pre-existing conditions can influence healing and should therefore be discussed openly before the operation.
When may a revision operation be necessary?
Sometimes a nose develops differently than expected during healing. An irregularity may remain, breathing may still be restricted, or the aesthetic result may not sufficiently match the agreed goal.
That does not automatically mean that another operation should be carried out immediately.
For aesthetic problems, one often waits about twelve months. The nose continues to change during this time, swelling goes down, and the tissue becomes softer and more stable.
Only then can what has actually remained permanently be reliably assessed in many cases.
For medical problems, earlier treatment may be necessary. That must be decided individually.
Frequently asked questions about nose surgery in Zurich
Is a nose operation painful?
Many patients imagine the first days to be more painful than they actually are. Pressure, swelling and restricted nasal breathing are often perceived as more unpleasant than the actual pain.
In many cases, the discomfort can be controlled well with common pain medication.
A slightly elevated sleeping position and careful cooling in the cheek and eye area can also be pleasant.
Severe or suddenly increasing pain, on the other hand, is not a typical course of healing and should be checked by a doctor.
How long are you unable to work after a nose operation?
For an office job, you should usually plan on roughly one to two weeks. By this point the splint has normally been removed, and a large part of the visible bruising and swelling has already gone down.
Those who do physical work or who risk a blow to the nose at work may need longer.
Intense sporting exertion should also not be resumed too early. When the right time has come depends on the extent of the operation and the healing course so far.
When can you see the final result?
Not after two weeks – even though at that point the nose already looks quite different from right after the operation.
The largest part of the visible swelling goes down relatively early. Small residual swellings, however, last much longer, especially at the nasal tip.
In some patients, the nose still changes six to twelve months after the procedure. After extensive operations it can even take longer.
You should therefore not judge the final result too early. A realistic assessment is often only possible after about a year.
How much does a nose operation cost in Zurich?
The costs of a nose operation in Zurich are often in the five-figure range and, depending on the procedure, often start at around CHF 10,000. The exact price depends on the complexity of the operation, the surgeon's experience and the clinic and anesthesia costs. A binding quote is therefore only possible after a personal examination.
Is nasal packing necessary after the nose operation?
Not necessarily.
Whether packing or internal splints are used depends on the operation. Internal stabilization can make sense especially after procedures on the nasal septum.
Today, different materials and techniques are available. A nose operation therefore does not automatically mean that classic firm packing has to be worn for several days.
If you are worried about this, you should raise it before the operation. The surgeon can then explain what is used in the planned procedure and when it can be removed.
Conclusion: individual consultation for a nose operation in Zurich
A good nose operation is not simply about making the nose smaller, straighter or narrower. It has to suit the face – and it should fulfill its function.
Modern procedures such as piezo rhinoplasty or preservation rhinoplasty give surgeons different options today than a few years ago. Nevertheless, the newest technique is not automatically the best. What is decisive is whether the chosen procedure fits the anatomy and the actual problem.
Anyone thinking about a nose operation in Zurich should therefore take time for choosing the surgeon and for the consultation. Questions about shape, breathing, costs and also possible complications should be clarified before the operation.
And after the procedure, too, a little patience is needed. A nose does not heal completely within a few weeks. The final result develops slowly – and for exactly that reason it should only be judged once healing is largely complete.
If you are planning a nose operation in Zurich, you can arrange a personal consultation with Dr. med. Simon Zimmermann at Clinic Selnau (Swissnose).
For more information, please contact us!
