5 Things Patients Should Look for in a Rhinoplasty Surgeon
Rhinoplasty is one of the most complex procedures in facial surgery. It is not simply about changing appearance — it involves delicate structural work that directly affects breathing, facial balance, and long-term nasal function.
Choosing the right surgeon is therefore critical.
Based on best practice and modern UK standards, here are five essential things every patient should look for when choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon.
1. Formal Cosmetic Surgery Certification (RCSEng)
In the UK, patients should look for formal cosmetic surgery accreditation, not just general surgical training.
✔️ Surgeons listed on the Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCSEng) Cosmetic Surgery Certification register
✔️ Evidence of structured assessment, governance, and ethical cosmetic practice
✔️ Adherence to national safety and consent standards
This provides reassurance that cosmetic rhinoplasty is not an occasional add-on, but a formally recognised part of the surgeon’s practice.
2. Fellowship Training in Rhinoplasty & Facial Plastics
Rhinoplasty has one of the steepest learning curves in surgery.
Patients should seek surgeons who have completed dedicated fellowship training in:
Rhinoplasty
Facial plastic surgery
Functional nasal surgery
Fellowship training goes beyond standard consultant training and focuses on:
Complex anatomy
Revision surgery
Long-term functional outcomes
Aesthetic judgement
This level of training is particularly important for:
Revision rhinoplasty
Breathing problems
Asymmetric or post-traumatic noses
3. Use of Modern Techniques: Piezo & Dorsal Preservation
Rhinoplasty has evolved significantly in the last decade. Surgeons who still rely solely on older techniques may not offer the most refined or tissue-preserving outcomes.
Look for experience in modern rhinoplasty techniques, including:
Piezo (Ultrasonic) Rhinoplasty
Precise bone reshaping
Less bruising and swelling
Improved control around delicate structures
Dorsal Preservation Rhinoplasty
Maintains the natural nasal bridge
Avoids aggressive hump removal
Produces more natural, long-term results
Reduces risk of secondary deformities
Only a small number of surgeons nationally are truly experienced in dorsal preservation techniques.
4. ENT Background (Not Cosmetic-Only Training)
Rhinoplasty is both functional and aesthetic.
An ENT (Ear, Nose & Throat) surgeon brings:
Deep understanding of nasal airflow and breathing
Expertise in septal deviation, valves, and turbinates
Ability to combine cosmetic changes with breathing improvement
This is especially important if you have:
Nasal blockage
Previous nasal surgery
Trauma
Sinus or allergy problems
ENT-based rhinoplasty focuses on long-term nasal health, not just appearance.
5. High-Volume, Specialist Practice
Rhinoplasty is not a procedure where “occasional” experience is enough.
Patients should look for:
A high-volume rhinoplasty practice
Regular performance of both cosmetic and functional rhinoplasty
Experience managing complications and revisions
Large specialist practices:
Refine judgement through repetition
Develop consistent, reproducible outcomes
Are better equipped to manage complex cases
Mr Tim Biggs has one of, if not the, largest rhinoplasty practices on the South Coast with a practice entirely focused on nasal surgery — a key marker of expertise.
Why This Matters
Rhinoplasty results must last a lifetime.
Choosing a surgeon with:
Formal cosmetic certification
Fellowship training
Modern techniques
ENT expertise
High-volume specialist experience
dramatically reduces the risk of:
Breathing problems
Unnatural appearance
Need for revision surgery
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is cosmetic certification really important?
Yes. RCSEng cosmetic certification confirms that the surgeon meets national standards for cosmetic surgery training, ethics, and governance.
What is the difference between piezo and traditional osteotomy (bone cuts)?
Piezo uses ultrasonic energy to reshape bone with precision, causing less trauma, bruising, and swelling compared with traditional instruments.
What is dorsal preservation rhinoplasty?
It is a modern technique that reshapes the nose while preserving the natural bridge structure, leading to more natural and stable long-term results.
Should my rhinoplasty surgeon be an ENT specialist?
If breathing, nasal function, or internal structure matters (which it almost always does), an ENT background is a major advantage.
Does surgeon volume really matter?
Yes. High-volume surgeons develop better judgement, consistency, and complication management — particularly important in rhinoplasty.
Is revision rhinoplasty harder than first-time surgery?
Yes. Revision cases are significantly more complex and should only be undertaken by surgeons with advanced fellowship training and extensive experience. If possible, get it right the first time, as coming to be to correct complications is more expensive and much more difficult.
Final Thoughts
Rhinoplasty is not just about changing a nose — it’s about restoring balance, function, and confidence.
Taking the time to choose a surgeon with the right training, certification, technology, and experience is the single most important decision you will make in your rhinoplasty journey.
If you are considering rhinoplasty and want specialist, modern, ENT-led care, seek consultation with a surgeon whose practice and training are truly dedicated to nasal surgery - Mr Tim Biggs, Consultant Rhinologist.