A nose job, also known as rhinoplasty, is one of the most popular cosmetic surgery procedures performed each year. During a nose job, a plastic surgeon sculpts the bone and cartilage of the nose to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing shape.

The cost of a nose job can vary widely, but on average, patients can expect to pay between $3,000 and $15,000 for their procedure. The exact rhinoplasty cost depends on several factors:

• Location and surgeon credentials
• Extent of work required
• Surgical facility fees
• Anesthesia fees
• Prescription medication costs
• Revision rhinoplasty

Location and Surgeon Credentials

More experienced, highly qualified surgeons in areas like Los Angeles or New York City will charge more for their services than less experienced surgeons in smaller cities. Board certified plastic surgeons command the highest fees.

A nose job with an expert surgeon in a major metro area typically ranges from $7,000 – $15,000. Small town surgeons may charge as little as $3,000 – $5,000 for the same procedure.

Extent of Work Required

Simple cosmetic refinements like smoothing a dorsal hump cost less than major reconstruction that requires grafting or silicone implants. Minor tweaks typically start at around $3,000, while extensive reshaping can cost up to $15,000 or more.

Surgical Facility Fees

The surgeon’s fee is only one portion of the total nose job cost. The facility where the surgery is performed also charges fees:

• Hospital operating room – $2,000+
• Accredited surgical center – $1,000+
• Office-based surgical suite – $500+

Hospitals charge more than surgery centers for the nursing staff, equipment, medication and operating room time required during rhinoplasty.

Anesthesia Fees

General anesthesia with an anesthesiologist – $1,000+

Conscious sedation with an anesthetist – $500 – $700+

A board certified anesthesiologist provides the highest level of care but at a higher cost. Conscious sedation is usually sufficient for rhinoplasty and costs less while keeping patients comfortable.

Prescription Medication Costs

Antibiotics, pain medicine and nasal spray – $200 – $300

Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent infection after a nose job. Pain relievers help manage discomfort during the recovery period. Nasal spray keeps nasal passages moisturized following surgery.

Revision Rhinoplasty

When a patient is unsatisfied with their original nose job, a revision rhinoplasty can be done to improve results. However, the cost is often higher:

• Revision to refine, adjust or reduce – $5,000 – $7,000+
• Major reconstruction revision – $10,000+

The cost is affected by what specific work is involved to correct issues from the original surgery. Extensive revisions usually cost more than minor revisions.

By choosing an experienced surgeon and paying attention to all the costs involved, patients can get the results they want from their nose job without overspending in the process. Being an informed consumer is the best way to find affordable options for rhinoplasty.

What factors affect the cost of a nose job?

The cost of a rhinoplasty (nose job) can range widely from around $3,000 on the low end to $15,000 or more for complex revisions. When budgeting and preparing for a nose job procedure, it helps to understand the specific factors that influence overall pricing. The main elements that impact rhinoplasty costs include:

Surgeon Expertise and Location

The skill and experience level of the surgeon performing the nose job is a primary driver of the cost. Specialist facial plastic surgeons with advanced training in rhinoplasty typically charge higher fees, especially those located in major metro areas like Los Angeles or New York rather than small towns.

Board certified surgeons in big cities may charge $10,000 to $15,000+ for their services, while less experienced surgeons in rural areas might charge $3,000 to $7,000 for the same procedure. Highly qualified surgeons are in demand so they can command premium pricing.

Surgical Facility Fees

Where the surgery takes place also affects pricing. Operating room fees at hospitals are usually the most expensive option at over $2,000. Accredited surgicenters cost about $1,000 on average. In-office surgical suites are the most affordable at around $500.

Anesthesia Fees

General anesthesia with an anesthesiologist typically adds $1,000+ to the total cost. Conscious sedation with an anesthetist averages $500 to $700 and is usually sufficient for a nose job. The anesthesia provider’s credentials impact their pricing.

Revision Rhinoplasty

Patients who are unsatisfied with their original nose job may choose to have a revision rhinoplasty. Revisions are more complex and challenging, often requiring structural grafting, so they cost more than first-time procedures in most cases.

Extent of Reshaping Needed

The complexity of altering the nose’s shape during rhinoplasty impacts cost. A minor change like adjusting a dorsal hump or refining the tip costs less than major reconstruction of the nasal bridge or nostrils, for example.

Open vs. Closed Approach

The open technique involves an incision across the columella for direct access to nasal structures. The closed approach uses all internal incisions only. The less invasive closed approach is usually cheaper.

Geographic Location of the Surgeon

Surgeons in mid-sized cities like Atlanta or Chicago will charge moderately less than top surgeons in New York City or Beverly Hills where overhead costs are very high. Small town or rural area surgeons often have the lowest fees.

Combination With Other Procedures

Some patients combine nose surgery with other facial procedures like chin augmentation or face lift at the same time. Combining multiple procedures may offer some cost savings through shared anesthesia and facility fees.

Understanding what goes into pricing a nose job allows patients to plan their budget realistically. Finding an experienced surgeon they feel comfortable with and avoiding unnecessary add-ons can help keep their overall costs on the more affordable end of the spectrum.

How much does a nose job cost in different areas of the country?

The cost of a rhinoplasty can vary quite a bit based on the geographic location within the United States where the surgery is performed. Generally, nose job costs are highest in major coastal cities and lower in less populated middle parts of the country.

Nose Job Prices in Major Metropolitan Areas

Patients can expect to pay the highest rhinoplasty costs in areas like New York City, Los Angeles, Miami, Boston, Seattle, San Francisco, San Diego, Chicago and other large coastal cities. Some price examples:

• Los Angeles – $7,000 – $15,000+
• Miami – $6,500 – $12,000+
• New York City – $8,000 – $15,000+
• San Francisco – $7,500 – $14,000+
• Seattle- $6,000 – $10,000+
• Boston – $7,000 – $12,000+
• Chicago – $6,500 – $11,000+

These major metro areas have very high costs of living and overhead costs for surgeons and surgical facilities. Top surgeons in high demand also command premium pricing for their services.

Mid-Range Cities and Prices

In mid-sized cities away from the coasts like Houston, Atlanta, Denver, Nashville, Dallas and Phoenix, patients can expect moderately lower surgeon and facility fee costs. Typical prices in these areas are:

• Houston – $5,000 – $8,000
• Atlanta – $4,500 – $7,500
• Dallas – $4,500 – $8,000
• Phoenix – $4,000 – $7,000
• Nashville – $4,500 – $8,000
• Denver – $4,500 – $7,000

Smaller Cities and Towns

In less populated areas of the Midwest, South and Northwest, rhinoplasty costs are lower largely due to lower living costs and surgeon/facility overhead expenses. Prices may range from:

• $3,000 – $5,000 in small cities and towns
• $2,500 – $4,500 in rural areas

While costs are lower, patients should still seek out surgeons specially trained in nose surgery for best results regardless of location. Avoid choosing a surgeon only based on cheaper pricing.

Why the Price Differences?

Why does a nose job cost so much less in, say, Idaho Falls versus Los Angeles? Here are some of the main reasons for the cost variations:

• Coastal big cities have a higher cost of living and higher facility costs.
• Top surgeons can charge more where they are in high demand.
• Smaller towns have lower overhead costs to operate a practice.
• Less competition allows some surgeons to charge less.
• Rural surgeons may need to charge less to attract patients.

While a nose job will likely cost more in a major coastal metro area, the surgeon’s skills and experience should be the top priority in choosing where to have rhinoplasty. Traveling for a top surgeon may be worth the investment for best results.

Is a Nose Job Affordable for the Average Person?

With average price tags ranging from $5,000 to as high as $15,000, rhinoplasty (nose job surgery) is one of the more expensive cosmetic procedures. Many interested patients wonder if achieving their dream nose is financially feasible.

For most middle-class individuals and families, the costs associated with rhinoplasty are significant and require careful budgeting, saving and even financing to manage. Here are some factors to consider when evaluating if a nose job may be affordable based on your financial situation:

Set Realistic Savings Goals

Ideally, you should avoid financing cosmetic procedures and instead save up to pay for your rhinoplasty with cash. Establish a regular savings plan, with the minimum goal of putting aside at least $200 per month toward your nose job fund. If you save $200 monthly, in 2 years you’ll have $4,800 saved up.

Shop Around for Prices

Consult with several qualified plastic surgeons in your area and ask for complete price quotes. Look for ways to save on costs like having the procedure at a surgery center instead of a hospital. Consider traveling to less expensive cities to have your surgery performed.

Look Into Financing Options

Most cosmetic surgery practices offer financing plans through outside lenders like CareCredit that allow you to pay for your nose job through fixed monthly payments for up to 2 years, often at 0% interest if paid on time. These can make surgery more affordable, but read terms carefully and budget to make payments on time.

Use Flexible Spending and PTO

If your employer offers a flexible spending account and paid time off benefits, arrange to have surgery at the start of a new FSA year, contributing the max pre-tax amount to cover your copays and medication costs. Use PTO for your recovery time off work.

Invest Tax Refunds Wisely

Many nasal surgery patients use part or all of their annual tax refunds to put toward their nose job instead of spending refunds frivolously. Set aside refund money specifically for your savings goals.

Consider a Nose Job Abroad

Having your surgery performed in countries like Mexico, Thailand or Turkey can save you 50% or more on total costs while still getting quality care. Just be sure to thoroughly vet surgeons and facilities if going abroad.

Maintain Good Credit

Financing your nose job relies on having decent credit to qualify for low rates. Maintain good credit by always paying your bills on time. Pay down debts and keep credit card balances low so you can qualify for the best loan terms.

With some strategic planning and budgeting, millions of average income earners can swing the costs of rhinoplasty each year. Setting savings goals, minimizing expenses where possible and financing responsibly can make that dream nose affordable within a couple of years for many motivated individuals.

How Can I Find an Affordable Nose Job?

With the average cost of rhinoplasty ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 based on the surgeon, location, and complexity of the procedure, many patients interested in nose reshaping look for ways to reduce their costs. Here are some tips that can help you find an affordable nose job:

Research Surgeons Thoroughly

Higher cost doesn’t always mean higher quality. Do your homework to find experienced, reputable surgeons with reasonable pricing. Search online reviews and ask local Facebook groups and Reddit threads for referrals to affordable rhinoplasty specialists.

Consider Less Experienced Surgeons

Board certified surgeons with 10+ years experience typically charge the highest fees. Newly qualified surgeons often offer dramatic discounts to build a portfolio and reputation when starting out. Just be sure they have proper accredited training.

Look for Surgeons Offering Specials

Many surgeons run periodic specials and promotions such as waiving their fees on revision rhinoplasty or offering $1000 off for booking surgery before a certain date. Sign up for email lists and ask if any specials are available.

Choose a Surgical Center, not Hospital

Having your surgery at an accredited surgical center instead of a hospital can save thousands in OR and facility fees. Make sure your surgeon has hospital privileges as backup.

Use Conscious Sedation, not General Anesthesia

Opting for conscious sedation instead of general anesthesia provided by an anesthesiologist can reduce fees by $500 or more. It’s usually sufficient for rhinoplasty.

Negotiate Package Discounts

If you plan to combine your nose job with other procedures like chin augmentation or injections, ask your surgeon for a discounted total package price. Many will negotiate fair deals for combined services.

Get Preapproved for Financing

Shop financing terms and payment plans like CareCredit or Alphaeon Credit in advance and get preapproved before your consult. This allows you to focus on finding the best surgeon for the lowest fee possible when you’re ready to book.

Travel for Surgery

Having your rhinoplasty performed in a less expensive city or country can dramatically cut costs. Just be very selective about foreign surgeons and facilities to ensure proper accreditation and training standards.

Use Life Events Money

Consider using funds you may receive for birthdays, graduations, bar/bat mitzvahs, wedding gifts or inheritances towards your nose job savings goals to limit your out-of-pocket costs.

With some clever planning and searching, it’s often possible to reduce your anticipated rhinoplasty costs and still get beautiful results from a qualified surgeon you can trust.

Will Insurance Cover Any Part of a Nose Job?

Nose surgery (rhinoplasty) performed solely for cosmetic improvement of the nasal appearance is generally not covered by health insurance plans. However, in certain medical circumstances, insurance may pay for some or all of a medically needed nasal surgery.

Here are some scenarios in which insurance may provide coverage for a septorhinoplasty, turbinate reduction or nasal reconstruction:

Nasal Obstruction Repair

If difficulty breathing through the nose is caused by an anatomical problem like a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates or nasal valve collapse, insurance will often pay for surgery to correct the issue and improve air flow. This requires a referral from your doctor documenting symptoms.

Nasal Fracture Repair

After trauma that results in a broken or fractured nose, insurance will cover needed surgery to realign the bones and cartilage properly so the nose heals in the correct position.

Nasal Birth Defects

Babies born with cleft palate/lip or other congenital nasal defects causing functional problems usually qualify for insurance coverage of surgical correction procedures.

Nasal Tumor Removal

Benign or malignant tumors inside the nasal cavity often obstruct breathing and require removal via septorhinoplasty techniques. Insurance pays for tumor extraction and reconstruction.

Revision of Poor Outcomes

After a significantly unsatisfactory initial nose job result, insurance may pay for revision rhinoplasty to correct nasal collapse, breathing problems, or other major functional defects arising from the first surgery.

Post-Cancer Reconstruction

Following cancer surgery that damages the nose, insurance covers reconstructive procedures needed to restore nasal form and function.

Traumatic Injury Repair

If an injury from an assault, car accident or other trauma results in severe nasal/sinus damage, insurance will authorize medically necessary surgery to fix the problem. This may require legal documentation.

While the majority of nose jobs are not covered, there are certainly medical circumstances and functional problems affecting the nose that do meet insurance criteria. By providing the right medical documentation and referrals, patients can get needed nasal surgery approved and covered.

However, insurance never pays for purely elective nasal surgeries only meant to improve cosmetic appearance. Functional repair and reconstruction is the key to potential insurance coverage for nose surgery costs.

How Much Does a Revision Rhinoplasty Cost if the First Nose Job Wasn’t Successful?

Patients who are dissatisfied with the aesthetic or functional results of their original rhinoplasty may elect to undergo a revision nose job to improve the appearance and/or breathing issues caused by the first surgery. However, revisions typically cost more than the initial procedure.

On average, revision rhinoplasty ranges from $10,000 to $15,000, but costs can be higher depending on the complexity of corrections needed.

Here are some of the factors that influence the cost of a revision nose job:

Extent of Reconstruction Needed

Simple revisions like reducing nasal bridge height or refining a pollybeak often cost $5,000 to $7,000+. Major reconstruction of collapsed nasal structures or significant grafting can run $10,000 to $15,000+. Complete re-do’s of totally unsatisfactory results cost $15,000+.

Surgical Facility and Anesthesia Fees

Because revision rhinoplasty is more difficult, surgeons often perform them in a hospital setting under general anesthesia which adds thousands in facility fees. Initial surgery is usually done in an office or surgery center.

Specialized Surgeon Expertise

Revisions should be performed by a specialist surgeon highly experienced in complex revision rhinoplasty cases. Their expertise commands premium pricing.

Corrective Sinus or Breathing Problems

If the original nose job also affected sinuses or breathing, revision septorhinoplasty is required to fix internal nasal functions, at added cost.

Revision Rhinoplasty is More Challenging

The surgeon must re-operate on tissues already modified from the first surgery, working delicately on fragile scar tissue. This requires more operating time and specialized skills.

Medically Needed Revisions

Some patients require revision to correct nasal collapse causing severe breathing impairment. Insurance may cover part of the cost if medically necessary.

Injectable Nose Job Revisions

Minor revisions like smoothing bumps or sharp angles may be performed via injection of fillers into nasal tissues. This offers a less expensive option of $700 to $1500 per treatment. Multiple treatments are usually needed.

Rarely Covered by Insurance

Since the original nose job was cosmetic, insurance usually won’t cover the revision procedure even if the first outcome was unacceptable. Self payment is required.

Compare Multiple Surgeon Quotes

To reduce your out-of-pocket costs, schedule consultations with several top revision specialists and compare their price quotes for recommended corrections.

While affordability is usually a concern with revision rhinoplasty, avoiding the cheapest surgeon is wise. Focus on an experienced specialist with realistic pricing to ensure the best outcome from your investment.

How Much Does an Ethnic Rhinoplasty Cost Compared to a Traditional Nose Job?

Rhinoplasty among ethnic populations requires specialized techniques to work with thicker nasal skin and create balanced ethnic facial harmony. On average, ethnic nose surgery costs are comparable to traditional rhinoplasty, ranging widely from $3,000 to $15,000 based on the extent of work needed.

Here’s an overview of cost factors with ethnic rhinoplasty:

Specialized Surgical Skills

Surgeons specially trained in nuances of African American, Hispanic, Asian and Middle Eastern nasal anatomy charge more for their expertise, similar to facelift surgeons. Expect higher fees in the range of $8,000 to $15,000.

Reshaping or Reduction

For noses needing conservative hump reduction or rounding of the nasal tip, costs are similar to traditional rhinoplasty at $5,000 to $7,000.

Increase Projection and Augmentation

Building up the nasal bridge and tip projection with cartilage grafting costs more due to time and materials – $7,000 to $10,000 on average.

Extensive Revision of Nasal Structure

Major reconstruction of the tip, bridge and nostrils runs $10,000 to $15,000. The same applies with traditional rhinoplasty revisions.

Ancillary Procedures

Many patients have additional procedures like chin or cheek implants, lip lifts, fillers, or chemical peels to enhance overall facial balance. Combination pricing may offer some cost savings.

Surgeon’s Reputation and Location

Well known surgeons in urban areas like Los Angeles, New York and Miami are in high demand and charge higher fees, especially for their ethnic rhinoplasty expertise. Small town surgeons cost less.

Surgical Facility Fees

Hospital operating rooms are most expensive at $2,000+ on average. In-office surgical suites average $500 to $1,000 for the facility costs.

Anesthesia Provider

A board certified anesthesiologist averages $1,000+ for their services during rhinoplasty. Certified anesthetists charge $500 to $700 with conscious sedation.

Geographic Region

Surgeon’s fees within Los Angeles vary by neighborhood. Expect higher pricing in areas like Beverly Hills. Fees in other regions like the Southeast or Midwest run lower overall.

When performed by a specialist in ethnic nasal anatomy, patients can expect natural yet enhanced results from rhinoplasty tailored to their specific facial features for a cost similar to traditional procedures.

How Do I Know if I’m Getting a Fair Price Quote for a Nose Job?

With surgeon’s fees ranging widely from $3,000 on the very low end to $15,000 or more for complex revisions, how can you determine if a quoted rhinoplasty cost seems reasonably fair? While there’s no universal standard pricing, here are some factors to consider:

Compare Multiple Quotes

Get in-person consultations and quotes from at least 3 board-certified plastic surgeons in your area. Ask exactly what their fees cover. If one quote is drastically lower than the rest, it may signal lower experience or quality.

Check Certifications

Are they board certified from the American Board of Plastic Surgery? Extensively trained, experienced specialists will have higher fees that reflect their expertise and demand. Newly certified surgeons often offer discounts.

Understand the Quote Details

Do the quoted fees include the surgeon, anesthesia provider, and operating facility costs or just the surgeon fee? Bundle pricing is best to avoid surprise add-on costs.

Assess the Surgical Plan

Does the proposed rhinoplasty plan seem tailored to your anatomy and goals versus a one-size-fits all approach? Customized plans warrant higher fees.

Consider Credentials and Reputation

Surgeons with prestigious credentials like Ivy League training and national scientific presentations command higher pricing, especially in metro areas. Check their before and after results.

Factor in Area Cost of Living

Like real estate, surgeons in high cost of living cities like San Francisco or New York City charge more for overhead costs. Fees are generally lower in rural areas.

Understand Included Follow-up Care

The quote should cover follow up visits for several months to a year to monitor healing and adjust if needed. Beware of fees for all follow up care.

Ask About Financing Options

Many practices offer no interest financing plans through providers like CareCredit. This allows you to focus on surgeon quality over lower upfront fees.

Trust Your Gut Feeling

Beyond just dollars, do you feel confident and comfortable with the surgeon’s experience and aesthetic style? Skill and artistry exceed cost.

Though fees are always a consideration, choosing your rhinoplasty surgeon is about more than just price. Focus on quality over cost for satisfying outcomes.

What are the Least Expensive Options for Getting a Nose Job?

With the national average for rhinoplasty surgery typically costing anywhere from $5,000 to $15,000 based on the surgeon and complexity, patients interested in modifying their nose shape often look for ways to reduce their out-of-pocket expenses. Here are some tips for obtaining nose reshaping at the lowest possible cost:

Find Newly Qualified Surgeons

Right after completing their advanced training, new surgeons often offer dramatic discounts and deals to build a portfolio and reputation as they start practicing independently. Just be sure to vet their residency program. Many offer exceptional skills despite being new.

Choose a Surgical Center, Not Hospital

Having your surgery performed at an accredited ambulatory surgical center instead of a hospital can save thousands in operating room and facility fees. Some surgeons further discount their fees for center cases.

Use IV Sedation, Not General Anesthesia

Opting for IV sedation instead of general anesthesia can reduce fees by $500 to $1,000+ since an anesthesiologist is not required. Many rhinoplasties are safely performed with sedation.

Take Advantage of Surgical Specials

Like a new car dealership offering rebates, many established surgeons run periodic specials on rhinoplasty such as waiving their professional fees or offering $1000 off surgery booked before a deadline.

Travel to Less Expensive Areas

Consider traveling to smaller cities or rural areas where the cost of living is much lower and surgeons’ overhead expenses are less. Just be selective about vetting their experience and results.

Have Multiple Procedures at Once

Combining your nose job with other treatments like chin augmentation or injectable fillers at the same time often offers cost savings through shared OR fees and anesthesia costs.

Use Inheritance Money

Rather than financing your nose job and incurring loan interest, maximize any available inherited money from relatives towards your savings goals to pay costs out-of-pocket.

Ask About Payment Plans

Many practices offer no interest financing for 6 to 24 months if paid on time through companies like CareCredit or Alphaeon. This allows you to budget fixed, affordable monthly payments.

Negotiate Discounts for Cash Payment

Since cash transactions involve less administrative work for offices, you can sometimes negotiate 5-10% discounts by paying your entire balance up front before surgery day.

While you’ll likely need to pay upwards of $5k for quality results, these tips can help you save a few hundred to a thousand dollars or more on overall rhinoplasty costs with proper planning.

Key Takeaways

• Rhinoplasty costs typically range from $5,000 to $15,000 on average depending on the surgeon, geographic location, complexity of reshaping, and surgical facility fees.
• Major factors affecting the price include the surgeon’s reputation and experience, anesthesia fees, extent of reshaping required, and whether it’s revision surgery.
• Big metropolitan cities like Los Angeles and New York have the highest prices given the high demand and overhead costs. Small towns and rural areas offer lower pricing overall.
• While rhinoplasty is often considered expensive, strategic planning through surgeon choice, surgical location, combining procedures, financing options, and discounts can help reduce out-of-pocket costs for many patients.
• Rather than focus only on low fees, choosing an expert, board-certified plastic surgeon you’re comfortable with is the best way to achieve satisfying rhinoplasty outcomes worth the investment.

Conclusion

• Rhinoplasty is one of the more expensive plastic surgery procedures, with the average cost ranging from $5,000 to as high as $15,000 or more.
• The most significant factors affecting the price are the surgeon’s expertise and geographic location, as well as the complexity of the procedure and whether it involves revision work.
• While cost is a consideration, choosing a highly-skilled, experienced board-certified surgeon you trust should be the priority when researching your options.
• With proper planning and budgeting, rhinoplasty can be affordable for many middle-income patients through smart surgeon selection, procedure combinations, financing, and other cost-saving techniques.
• The investment in an expert surgeon is worthwhile to achieve your desired aesthetic nose shape improvements and quality results that will last for years to come.