Rhinoplasty Cost in Germany

The cost of rhinoplasty in Germany typically ranges from $2,500 to $22,000 USD, depending on the hospital, city, and type of procedure.

Rhinoplasty changes the shape of the nose for appearance or to improve breathing. In Germany, the total depends on:

• Open or closed technique: open rhinoplasty uses a small cut between the nostrils.
• Complexity: reshaping bone, cartilage or both, and any work on the septum.
• Anaesthesia and stay: usually general anaesthetic with one or two nights.
• Reason for surgery: purely cosmetic surgery is subject to VAT.

The NHS explains that in closed rhinoplasty the cuts are made inside the nostrils, while open rhinoplasty adds a small cut across the skin between them. The operation is done under general anaesthetic and takes 1.5 to 3 hours.

Most people stay in hospital for 1 or 2 nights. A splint is usually worn on the nose for about 7 days.

Bruising usually settles in about 3 weeks, but swelling can take up to 6 months to go down fully. The NHS suggests up to 2 weeks off work and avoiding exercise for 4 to 6 weeks.

Risks include difficulty breathing through the nose, damage to the septum, a change in sense of smell and nosebleeds.

German statutory insurers do not pay for cosmetic procedures that are not medically necessary, and procedures carried out for purely aesthetic reasons are not exempt from VAT.

In Germany the title 'Schönheitschirurg' (cosmetic surgeon) is not legally protected, whereas 'Facharzt für Plastische und Ästhetische Chirurgie' is a recognised specialist qualification, so check the surgeon's specialist title.

When rhinoplasty is carried out to correct a breathing problem, ask the surgeon how the medical and cosmetic parts of the procedure will be documented and billed.