How Much Does a Rhinoplasty Cost?

Posted in Face Procedures

Rhinoplasty—commonly known as a “nose job” or nose-reshaping surgery—is a blend of art and science. But one of the first questions patients ask about this transformative procedure isn’t about the result—it’s about the cost of this plastic surgery procedure.

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In this blog, we’ll break down the average cost of rhinoplasty surgery, including what factors influence pricing, what’s included in your bill, and why the cost can vary so widely. If you’re considering rhinoplasty surgery in Los Angeles, insights from Kao Plastic Surgery—where Dr. Chia Chi Kao specializes in closed rhinoplasty—can help you make a well-informed decision.

What Is the Average Cost of Rhinoplasty?

The total cost of a traditional rhinoplasty procedure in the U.S. generally ranges between $7,000 and $15,000, though some cases may exceed $20,000, especially if the procedure is complex or includes a revision. According to RealSelf and the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, the average out-of-pocket cost hovers around $10,000–$12,000 for cosmetic cases.

At Kao Plastic Surgery in Los Angeles, patients can expect to pay in the upper range of the national average due to Dr. Kao’s reputation, location, and use of advanced surgical techniques.

What Is Included in the Cost of Rhinoplasty?

When you see a rhinoplasty price tag, it’s important to understand what it does—and does not—include. A typical rhinoplasty fee may consist of:

• Surgeon’s fee
• Anesthesia fees
• Surgical facility or hospital fees
• Preoperative and postoperative visits
• Medical tests or lab work
• Surgical supplies and splints
• Medications (prescriptions, pain relievers, etc.)

Practices like Kao Plastic Surgery typically provide comprehensive cost estimates during consultation, so patients know exactly what they’re paying for upfront.

Factors That Affect Rhinoplasty Cost

Rhinoplasty surgery is not a one-size-fits-all procedure, and the pricing reflects that. Several variables influence your final bill, including:

Surgeon Expertise and Credentials

The surgeon you choose plays a major role in how much your rhinoplasty will cost. In 2023, the American Society of Plastic Surgeons reported the average surgeon’s fee for primary rhinoplasty was $7,637—but that number can vary widely.

A surgeon’s experience matters. Board-certified plastic surgeons with extensive experience, particularly in specialized techniques such as closed rhinoplasty, often charge more. Dr. Kao is a prime example. Known for his advanced, scarless closed approach, he brings a level of precision and technical mastery that few can match, which is reflected in his pricing.

Geographic Location

Where you have your surgery matters, too. In cities like Los Angeles and New York, where demand is high and overhead costs are greater, the average rhinoplasty cost tends to be higher than the national average. If you’re working with a top facial plastic surgeon in Beverly Hills or Santa Monica, expect to see prices on the upper end of the spectrum.

Complexity of the Procedure

A straightforward cosmetic rhinoplasty procedure (e.g., removing a dorsal hump or refining the tip) is typically less expensive than:

• Revision rhinoplasty (correcting a previous nose job)
• Functional rhinoplasty (e.g., correcting a deviated septum)
• Grafting procedures that involve harvesting cartilage from the ear or rib

Each of these adds surgical time, difficulty, and cost.

Open Rhinoplasty vs. Closed Rhinoplasty Technique

Dr. Kao specializes in closed rhinoplasty surgery, which minimizes visible scarring and often has a quicker recovery. While both techniques can fall within the same general cost range, the closed technique may be priced slightly higher in practices where it’s a more advanced, customized procedure.

Facility and Anesthesia Fees

These procedures typically range from $2,000 to $5,000, depending on the length of the surgery and whether the procedure is performed in a private surgical suite or hospital setting. Practices like Kao Plastic Surgery typically use accredited outpatient facilities for safety and efficiency.

Revision Surgery

Revision rhinoplasty and reconstructive rhinoplasty are more complicated due to scar tissue, altered anatomy, and heightened patient expectations. These procedures can range from $10,000 to $20,000 or more, depending on the severity of the correction.

Is Rhinoplasty Covered by Health Insurance?

If your rhinoplasty procedure has a functional purpose and is deemed medically necessary—such as fixing a deviated septum, correcting breathing issues, or repairing nasal trauma or a birth defect—your health insurance coverage may include that aspect of the procedure. However, the cosmetic portion is typically not covered, and the surgeon must separate the functional and aesthetic components in the billing.

Dr. Kao offers nose surgery for both cosmetic and functional reasons, and his team can assist in determining whether any insurance benefits apply to your case.

Example of a Rhinoplasty Cost Breakdown

To put things into perspective, here’s an example of what a typical cosmetic rhinoplasty surgery might cost in Los Angeles:

This cost estimate can increase with revisions, grafting, or extended care requirements.

Additional Costs to Consider: Time Off Work and Recovery Expenses

Beyond the surgical bill, rhinoplasty patients should prepare for indirect costs, particularly if they don’t have paid time off (PTO) or paid leave.

Most patients take about 10 to 14 days off work to recover. If you work a physically demanding job or prefer to avoid public appearances during swelling and bruising, you may need the full two weeks.

If you don’t have PTO, the financial impact could look like:

• Two weeks of unpaid leave at $1,000/week = $2,000 in lost income

Other common recovery-related expenses include:

• Transportation to and from surgery and follow-up visits
• Childcare or pet care
• Meal delivery or temporary help at home
• Lodging (for out-of-town patients traveling to Los Angeles)

While these costs are often overlooked, they can add hundreds or even thousands to your total investment. Planning ahead ensures you can focus on recovery without added stress.

Are There Financing Options?

Yes. Many reputable practices, including Kao Plastic Surgery, offer financing plans through medical credit providers such as CareCredit®, Alphaeon® Credit, or PatientFi®. These options allow qualified patients to spread their payments over time, often with promotional terms that include no interest.

Below are some questions you can ask your provider regarding financing your rhinoplasty procedure:

• What financing options are available?
• Are there any interest-free periods?
• Is a down payment required?

How to Avoid Hidden Costs

Before booking your procedure, ask your surgeon the following questions:

• Does the price include anesthesia and facility fees?
• Will there be charges for postoperative visits or revisions?
• Are splints, dressings, and medications covered in the quote?
• What if cartilage grafting becomes necessary during surgery?

Transparency is critical. At Kao Plastic Surgery, patients receive clear, customized cost breakdowns during their initial consultation, so there are no surprises later on.

Why Paying Less Can Cost You More

While it may be tempting to look for the lowest rhinoplasty price, it’s important to understand what you’re paying for. Choosing a less-experienced or less-qualified surgeon can result in:

• Poor cosmetic outcomes
• Breathing difficulties
• The need for costly revision surgery

In contrast, investing in a highly skilled and experienced plastic surgeon may cost more upfront, but it typically provides better, longer-lasting results—and fewer regrets!

Final Thoughts: What Should You Budget for Rhinoplasty?

If you’re considering cosmetic rhinoplasty surgery, plan for a total investment of $10,000 to $15,000, depending on your goals and the complexity of the surgery. For revision or functional procedures, the final cost could rise to $20,000 or more.

In Los Angeles, where demand is high and expert rhinoplasty surgeons are in limited supply, it’s normal to see pricing at the upper end of the spectrum. At Kao Plastic Surgery, the fee reflects not just the procedure but the precision, safety, and artistry behind it.

For a nose that looks natural, functions well, and fits your face, the cost of surgical rhinoplasty is more than a number. It’s an investment in your confidence and quality of life.

If you’re ready to explore your options, contact Kao Plastic Surgery at (310) 315-9211 or reach out through our online contact form to schedule your personal consultation.