Long-Term Effects of Rhinoplasty, What Happens After 5 – 10 Years?

The long-term impact of rhinoplasty after 5–10 years depends on the surgical technique, the type of cartilage used, and the surgeon’s expertise. These factors determine whether the nose shape can remain stable, natural, and safe over time. The article below will help patients better understand how the nose may change as time passes.

I/ Long-term effects of rhinoplasty after 5–10 years

In reality, rhinoplasty results can remain stable and natural after 5–10 years if the procedure is performed using proper techniques, high-quality materials, and appropriate postoperative care. The nose can maintain a refined, well-defined height with a soft nasal tip, without implant visibility, redness, or deformation.

Conversely, if rhinoplasty is performed at an unreliable facility, late complications may occur, such as nasal bridge deviation, implant displacement, thinning of the nasal tip skin, capsular contracture, or even impaired respiratory function.

• Low or collapsed nasal bridge: Artificial implants may sink, shift, or collapse over time due to weakened soft tissues and supporting structures, causing the nose to lose its original height and balance.
• Implant exposure and redness at the nasal tip: As nasal skin naturally becomes thinner with age, the underlying cartilage may become visible, leading to a shiny, reddened nasal tip and increasing the risk of tissue damage if not addressed promptly.
• Infection or prolonged inflammation: Although it may occur years later, inflammation around the rhinoplasty area can cause swelling, pain, abnormal discharge, and may require medical intervention to prevent complications.
• Impact on breathing function: Structural changes in the nose over many years can affect the airway, making patients more prone to nasal congestion or difficulty breathing, especially in cold weather or with advancing age.

Properly performed rhinoplasty using high-quality artificial cartilage will ensure a beautiful and long-lasting nose shape.

II/ Changes in the nose 5–10 years after rhinoplasty

Changes in the nose 5–10 years after rhinoplasty mainly relate to structural stability, the natural aging of the skin, and the adaptability of the implant materials.

1. Stability of the nasal structure

With modern rhinoplasty techniques such as structural rhinoplasty and semi-structural rhinoplasty, the nasal framework is rebuilt firmly from the outset by combining autologous cartilage (septal cartilage, ear cartilage, rib cartilage) with high-grade biocompatible implants.

After 5–10 years:

• The nasal bridge remains straight, without deviation or warping
• The nasal tip stays stable, without contraction or deformation
• The columella remains strong, minimizing the risk of implant displacement

Older rhinoplasty methods (simple dorsal augmentation without columellar support) tend to be less stable in the long term and are more likely to develop complications after many years.

A beautiful, well-proportioned nose shape that doesn’t cause rejection.

2. Natural aging of the nasal skin

Whether or not rhinoplasty is performed, aging inevitably occurs over time. After 5–10 years, the nasal skin may:

• Lose elasticity
• Become thinner compared to the immediate post-surgery period
• Develop mild wrinkles around the nostrils
• However, with medically standardized rhinoplasty techniques:
• Implants are placed in the correct tissue planes, avoiding excessive skin tension
• The nasal tip is protected with autologous cartilage, helping the skin remain soft and supple
• The risk of redness, shine, or implant visibility is minimized as the skin gradually thins

3. Adaptation of rhinoplasty materials

Today, high-grade biocompatible implants such as Nanoform and Surgiform are highly regarded for:

• Excellent biocompatibility
• Low risk of irritation or inflammation
• Long-term stability of shape

In particular, when combined with autologous cartilage, these materials adapt better over time, reducing the risk of extrusion or contracture.

III/ Factors determining long-term rhinoplasty results

The factors that determine long-term rhinoplasty outcomes include the surgeon’s skill and experience, the materials and techniques used, as well as postoperative care and follow-up.

1. Surgeon’s skill and experience

A skilled surgeon can create an aesthetically pleasing nose while accurately assessing the nasal bone structure, skin thickness, and soft tissues. This allows the surgeon to:

• Select the most appropriate rhinoplasty technique for each facial structure and ethnicity
• Anticipate how the nose will change over time as part of the aging process

Surgeons with extensive experience tend to prioritize balanced, natural-looking results, avoiding overly high or rigid augmentation that may lead to long-term complications.

Choosing a reputable rhinoplasty clinic will ensure long-lasting aesthetic results.

2. Materials and techniques used

The choice of materials and surgical techniques plays a key role in maintaining long-lasting results. Modern rhinoplasty approaches typically combine:

• High-grade biocompatible implants for the nasal bridge (high compatibility, low complication risk)
• Autologous cartilage (ear cartilage, septal cartilage, rib cartilage) to protect the nasal tip and columella
• After 5–10 years, this approach helps reduce the risk of contracture or implant displacement, minimizes redness or implant visibility as the nasal skin thins, and maintains a soft, natural feel to the touch.

3. Postoperative care and follow-up

• Proper postoperative care has a significant impact on the longevity of rhinoplasty results.
• Factors such as maintaining a healthy lifestyle, avoiding strong impacts to the nose, appropriate skincare, and attending follow-up examinations as recommended by the surgeon all contribute to preserving a stable, well-shaped nose for many years.

IV/ Is revision surgery needed after 5–10 years?

In most cases, rhinoplasty does not require revision after 5–10 years if the procedure was performed using proper techniques and high-quality materials. The nasal shape remains stable, natural, and does not affect breathing function.

Revision is only considered when patients wish to change their nasal shape for personal reasons, when age-related changes occur, or when the initial rhinoplasty was performed using outdated, less durable techniques.

If the client wants to change the shape of their nose or if there are complications with the nose, revision surgery is necessary.

V/ How long does rhinoplasty last?

• Rhinoplasty can last 10–20 years or longer when performed correctly, especially structural rhinoplasty that combines autologous cartilage with high-grade biocompatible implants.
• When the materials are well tolerated by the body, the nasal structure is rebuilt firmly from the outset, and no complications or nasal trauma occur, the nose can maintain a harmonious, natural, and safe appearance over the long term.

VI/ Why international clients choose rhinoplasty at Kangnam Aesthetic Hospital

Kangnam Aesthetic Hospital is widely recognized as the leading rhinoplasty destination in Vietnam, especially trusted by international clients thanks to its comprehensive strengths in medical expertise, advanced technology, and long-term safety.

• Highly specialized rhinoplasty surgeons: Kangnam is home to a team of aesthetic surgeons with at least 10 years of experience, formally trained and highly skilled in personalizing nasal shapes to suit each facial structure and international beauty standards, while ensuring stable, long-lasting results over many years.
• Modern, medically standardized rhinoplasty technology: Kangnam has transferred and applied the Idol rhinoplasty technology from South Korea, enabling harmonious nasal designs that complement each client’s facial features. This is combined with AI Face simulation technology, allowing clients to visualize their expected results before surgery.
• High-quality, long-term safe nasal implants: The hospital uses premium biocompatible implants such as Surgiform and Nanoform, along with rigorously tested autologous cartilage. These materials offer high compatibility, minimize complications, and ensure the longevity of rhinoplasty results after 5–10 years.
• Medically standardized postoperative care: International clients receive close monitoring before, during, and after surgery, detailed postoperative care instructions, and long-term follow-up support, helping maintain durable and lasting aesthetic outcomes.

Kangnamd Aesthetic Hospital has successfully performed tens of thousands of rhinoplasty procedures.

VII/ Frequently asked questions

1. Will the nose become deformed 10 years after rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty does not cause deformation after 10 years if it is performed using proper techniques, high-quality materials, and by an experienced surgeon. Modern rhinoplasty methods help maintain long-term structural stability, minimizing the risk of nasal bridge deviation, contracture, or implant displacement over time.

2. Do nasal implants deteriorate over time?

High-grade biocompatible implants do not deteriorate, while autologous cartilage may undergo changes but will stabilize and integrate with the body over time. When combined using correct techniques, the cartilage maintains its shape and function, ensuring durability after 5–10 years without compromising aesthetics.

The results of rhinoplasty are long-lasting.

3. Does long-term rhinoplasty affect breathing?

Rhinoplasty does not affect breathing when performed according to medical standards and without improper interference with the functional nasal structures. In some cases, structural rhinoplasty may even help improve a deviated septum, supporting better long-term respiratory function.

The long-term impact of rhinoplasty after 5–10 years is entirely positive when you choose the right surgeon, technology, and aesthetic hospital. Kangnam Aesthetic Hospital is committed to accompanying clients with a team of specialized doctors, advanced technology, and premium materials, delivering stable and long-lasting rhinoplasty results.