If you are considering rhinoplasty, for example because your nasal septum is crooked and makes breathing difficult, or because you are unhappy with the appearance of your nose, the question often arises: Does the procedure have to be performed on an inpatient basis in a clinic, or is outpatient treatment sufficient?
At LIVION, rhinoplasty is offered for both aesthetic and functional reasons. Both types of nose surgery are performed under general anaesthesia and usually take about one to two hours.
In this article, we will examine when outpatient treatment is appropriate, when inpatient treatment is more advisable, what criteria play a role in this decision, and how you can best prepare yourself.
Outpatient or inpatient – what do these terms mean?
If a procedure is performed on an outpatient basis, this means that you will return home on the day of the procedure, provided that your health allows it. Inpatient means that you will spend at least one night or several nights in a clinic.
This status has an impact on organisation, care, aftercare and costs.
In the case of an operation under general anaesthesia, as offered by LIVION, an outpatient solution means that you will be monitored after waking up, but will not need to stay in the clinic for a longer period of time.
The question of whether outpatient or inpatient treatment is appropriate depends on several factors, such as your physical condition, comorbidities and the extent of the procedure.
When can a rhinoplasty be performed on an outpatient basis at LIVION?
At LIVION, nose correction is usually performed on an outpatient basis. This means that after the procedure under general anaesthesia, you can go home on the same day if everything goes smoothly. This option is feasible on an outpatient basis if:
- The operation is planned, without expected complications, and manageable in scope.
- Her general condition is good.
- A caregiver will accompany you home and be there for the first few hours.
- and the clinic premises are easily accessible.
These factors enable high-quality and safe outpatient care. Good preparation, stable health, and a clear follow-up plan are prerequisites. Furthermore, as a patient, you benefit from returning home immediately, sleeping in your familiar surroundings, and recovering there.
When is inpatient treatment advisable or necessary?
Even though LIVION enables outpatient nose corrections, there are situations in which an inpatient hospital stay is indicated. These include:
- more complex rhinoplasties with functional procedures such as pronounced septoplasty or turbinate reduction,
- Patients with significant pre-existing conditions (e.g., cardiovascular disorders, bleeding tendency, higher risk),
- Request for intensive monitoring or care on the first night,
- or if the surgical procedure takes an unusually long time, complications or bleeding occur, and longer postoperative monitoring is advisable.
In such cases, the advantages of inpatient care outweigh the disadvantages: round-the-clock care, peace and quiet, and the ability to react immediately to complications.
What happens during the operation at LIVION?
Nose correction at LIVION is performed under general anaesthesia and takes approximately one to two hours, depending on the findings. In your case, this means that you will arrive on an empty stomach, the anaesthesia team will administer the anaesthesia, and then the surgeon will perform the correction—such as straightening the nasal septum, removing a hump on the nose, or adjusting the turbinates. LIVION uses two techniques: closed and open rhinoplasty.
The closed technique is performed entirely through internal incisions without visible external scars. The open technique involves a small incision between the nostrils and allows more freedom of movement in complex cases. Both techniques can combine functional and aesthetic goals.
After the surgery - your first hours and days
The aftercare phase begins immediately after the procedure. If you are discharged as an outpatient, it is important to bring someone with you. At home, you should rest, keep your head elevated, apply cold compresses and refrain from physical exertion.
You will be able to resume your normal social activities after around two weeks. Swelling, bruising and slight pressure in the nasal region are normal and will subside over time. Important: You must not drive yourself immediately after the operation, you should not put pressure on your nose (e.g. by blowing your nose hard) and you should refrain from sports or saunas for at least eight to twelve weeks.
Things you should consider
If you are considering having a rhinoplasty at LIVION, be sure to discuss the following points during your consultation:
- What extent of surgery do you require? Just the tip of your nose, the hump, or straightening your septum?
- Which technique is used (open or closed)?
- Is an outpatient solution realistic, or would an overnight stay in the clinic be advisable?
- What risks are involved, and what are your specific circumstances (e.g., pre-existing conditions or medications)?
- What does aftercare look like – especially for outpatient cases: Who will care for you after the surgery?
- When will it be possible to return to work, sports, and normal routines?
These questions will help you clarify your choice between outpatient and inpatient care.
Advantages of an outpatient solution from the patient's point of view
If outpatient treatment is possible, there are advantages: you can stay in familiar surroundings and sleep in your own bed. This reduces stress and makes recovery easier. It is also often less complicated in terms of organisation – less time in hospital, no overnight stay required. In many cases, outpatient surgery is ideal if your procedure does not involve any major risks or comorbidities.
Limitations and risks – also for outpatient procedures
The following also applies to outpatient surgery: there are risks involved. Swelling, infections, post-operative bleeding or individual healing requirements may occur. If you do not have anyone to care for you at home, live far away or feel uncertain, inpatient treatment is often the better choice. In the case of complex findings or high demands on respiratory function, there are also many reasons to spend the night in the hospital.
Costs and insurance
LIVION procedures are mostly aesthetic-functional interventions; you often have to bear the costs yourself, especially if the reasons are predominantly aesthetic. However, in some cases, your health insurance may cover the cost of a functional correction of the nasal septum if there is a medical indication.
