What is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)?
The rapid development of technology has caused aesthetic surgical processes to be preferred much more frequently than before, and the success rates after these processes have increased. Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) is the whole of the procedures called Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) in the medical world and generally performed both for aesthetic purposes and to repair any dysfunction or deformity.
Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) is a very powerful method for overcoming the difficulties that usually occur in respiratory processes and reduce the quality of life. In order for the procedure to provide a lifelong solution, the physician who manages the surgical procedure throughout the process must be an expert, experienced and knowledgeable in the field.
Who Can Have Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)?
Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) is one of the most performed procedures in Turkey for both men and women. Rhinoplasty candidates generally prefer this surgery because of aesthetic problems in their noses. Patients with functional problems such as breathing problems also prefer this procedure. The mentioned functional problems can cause problems such as nasal congestion and loud, noisy breathing. In addition, people with these problems suffer from snoring while sleeping because of these functional problems.
Individuals who meet one or more of the following criteria may be considered suitable candidates for rhinoplasty.
- Dissatisfaction with nose size and shape.
- Finding damage to your nose after trauma.
- Difficulty breathing due to functional nasal problems.
- Loud snoring
- Having a body mass index (BMI) within healthy limits.
- In good health and not have a serious illness
- Being mentally and emotionally ready for surgery
- Having realistic expectations for the outcome of the surgery
Who Cannot Have Rhinoplasty Surgery?
- It is not appropriate to do it to people who have prejudices such as psychological dissatisfaction. This condition is called ‘body dysmorphic disorder’ in psychology. Although the person undergoes surgery and looks aesthetically pleasing, it causes even the smallest defect to enlarge. At the same time, there is a possibility of encountering problems such as depression, lowering the quality of life, and problems in socialization.
- It is not recommended for people with sleep apnea problems. The reason for this is the obstruction of the airways and the problem of shortness of breath. In order for the person to have rhinoplasty surgery, he or she may first undergo an operation for the sleep apnea problem. Then he can easily perform rhinoplasty surgery.
- If the person who will undergo rhinoplasty surgery has a bleeding disorder problem, it is not considered appropriate. The reason for this is that if the blood does not clot during the operation, blood loss may occur. In order to overcome this problem, the vitamin supplement of the person should be questioned and the situations that will prevent blood clotting should be eliminated.
At What Age Is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Performed?
Rhinoplasty surgery is generally recommended once the nasal cartilage has fully developed, assuming the concern is purely cosmetic rather than functional. For girls, this typically occurs around the age of 15, while for boys, it may take slightly longer.
However, if the surgery is intended to address breathing difficulties, it can be performed at a younger age. The question of the appropriate age for rhinoplasty is a common one, but there is no universal answer. The ideal timing depends on the individual’s condition and is determined in consultation with a specialist.
While rhinoplasty costs do not depend on the patient’s age or gender, they can vary based on the complexity of the procedure and the unique requirements of each case.
Why is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Performed?
Rhinoplasty; It can be performed in many different situations for a health problem or unwanted deformities in the nose.
However, common problems that can answer the question of why rhinoplasty is done include:
- Congenital or acquired deformities in the nose
- Presence of curvature or protrusion in the nasal bone
- Complaints such as breathing problems and snoring caused by structural disorders
- The person is uncomfortable with the appearance of his nose or needs any shape changes
- The nose is too big or too small
- Problems related to the angle of the nose
- The nostrils are smaller or larger than normal
- Presence of problems such as drooping, raised, pointed, congested or asymmetrical appearance at the tip of the nose
What are the Advantages of Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)?
Rhinoplasty has many advantages that other aesthetic operations have.
Rhinoplasty provides many advantages to the person and the advantages of rhinoplasty are as follows:
- A person’s self-confidence increases with rhinoplasty operation.
- The resulting deformities disappear and are replaced by an aesthetic appearance.
- Respiratory problems caused by deformities are eliminated.
- The rhinoplasty procedure is also very useful in eliminating the snoring problem that exists in the person.
What are the Disadvantages of Nose Aesthetics?
In the first days of nasal aesthetic operations, which carry less risk than other types of surgery, numbness may be seen at the tip of the nose. However, this situation disappears with the fit of the nose shape. There is a risk of infection due to intranasal sensitivity. In order to prevent the nose from getting infected, the medications given by the doctor should be taken on a scheduled basis. Since the face area does not wash until the nose strips come off, oiliness may occur on the skin surface. However, with the help of cotton, the face can be cleaned with soft touches without touching the nose.
What are Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Methods?
There are 2 different rhinoplasty techniques that are commonly preferred. In the first of these, open rhinoplasty, a small incision is made between the nostrils and the surgeon’s angle of view is widened thanks to this incision. Generally, the open rhinoplasty technique is preferred in people with advanced nasal deformity or who have had a different nasal aesthetic operation before. The biggest advantage of the open technique is that the viewing angle is wider. However, the healing process is longer and the problems such as edema and bruising after the operation are larger.
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Open Nose Aesthetics
In open rhinoplasty, your surgeon will make an incision inside the nostrils and in the area between the nostrils, called the collumella. The advantage of this approach is that it allows for changes in the shape of the nose that are not always possible with a closed approach. This approach is the most advantageous for increasing the size of your nose.
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Advantages:
Since open Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Surgery is performed by seeing the bones, cartilage and muscles of the nose, there is an incision starting from the invisible part of the nose. That incision continues from the inside and comes to the tip of the nose, the part called the nose post. There it crosses to the opposite side in the form of a broken line, usually in the form of a gull wing or a w sign.
In other words, the visible part is approximately an incision of 2 mm in the direct part of the nose. This incision scar then becomes invisible.
The advantage of open rhinoplasty is a much higher dominance of the nose. It is carried out with millimetric measurements by seeing each part. If a tissue is to be added there, it is an operation performed by fixing and stitching the tissues there, that is, with hand-eye coordination at every stage. This aspect is often preferred.
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Disadvantages:
Open Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) takes a little longer than closed rhinoplasty. In some cases, edema at the tip of the nose may take a long time. However, when it is considered as an approach in the world, it can be said that it is the most preferred method. It is a very safe application.
Especially while shaping the bones, being able to be seen with the eye increases control and can provide safer movement.
There is practically no significant pain in Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) procedures. The first question many patients ask is “Will I have a lot of pain?” The first sentence after the operation is mostly “I have no pain”. However, mild pain relievers can be used after the operation.
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Closed Nose Aesthetics
For closed rhinoplasty, your surgeon will make an incision inside your nostril and perform the surgery from there. The advantage of this operation is that the bruising and swelling after the operation is much less compared to the open surgery.
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Advantages:
Closed rhinoplasty takes less time than open rhinoplasty. Things to consider beforehand are the same for both approaches.
If medications like blood thinners or aspirin are being taken for reasons unrelated to the procedure, they should be stopped for a specific period before surgery, but only under a doctor’s guidance. The primary distinction between closed and open rhinoplasty lies in the surgical technique utilized. In closed rhinoplasty, as the nose tip remains untouched, recovery might progress slightly quicker.
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Disadvantages:
While it is possible to perform some operations inside the nose by directly seeing and measuring the nose in closed rhinoplasty, this is not the case in closed Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty). In the closed method, for example, it is not possible to stop a bleeding vessel, but in open rhinoplasty, it is easier to see that vessel and stop it if there is a bleeding in the vessel. This also reduces the formation of bruises. A certain amount of bleeding occurs in all standard surgeries. Or there is already some bleeding when there is an incision.
In closed nose aesthetics (rhinoplasty), the risk of complications and undesirable outcomes tends to be slightly higher if the surgeon lacks sufficient expertise in the procedure. This is because closed rhinoplasty relies on the surgeon’s ability to work by sensing the cartilage, veins, and muscle structures within the nose, making the learning process more challenging. On the other hand, open rhinoplasty is performed with direct visual access, which simplifies the learning curve to some extent.
How is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Performed?
Rhinoplasty typically lasts between 90 minutes and three hours. While it is most often carried out under general anesthesia, it can also be done using local anesthesia combined with sedation. Following the surgery, you might need to remain in the hospital for one or two nights.
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Consent Form
The surgeon or his assistant who will perform the surgery will give you a consent form at your pre-operative consultation or before your surgery on the day of surgery. Even if you have done research on the risks and complications of surgery before, we recommend that you read the consent form completely before signing your consent.
After signing the form, your doctor can put lines on your nose with a marker pen to help him in the surgery and can take your picture after getting your approval.
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Anesthesia
Your anesthesiologist will choose between local and general anesthesia according to your situation. In cases where your surgeon uses general anesthesia, you may feel sleepy for a short time after surgery.
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Incision (Incisions)
Your surgeon can perform rhinoplasty using an open or closed approach. After examining you during the consultation, your surgeon will decide on the most appropriate approach for you.
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Closing the Incisions
Your surgeon will close your incisions with stitches. In addition, your doctors will use dressings to fill both nostrils and apply a splint to keep your nose stable.
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Return to Room
Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Consultation
What Should I Expect From My Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Consultation?
Before having Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty), you will meet with your surgeon for a consultation. During this meeting, your surgeon will examine your face and nose and, if you allow it, will take pictures of your face. Your Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) consultation usually takes between 15 minutes and 1 hour. During this visit, you can talk to the doctor about the operation and get answers to all your questions.
During this visit, your doctor will ask you questions about:
- Your current health status
- Any ongoing illness
- Your medical history
- Your surgical history
- Medicines you are using (including herbal medicines)
- Alcohol, smoking, drug use
- Allergies
Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Risks and Complications
What are the Most Common Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Risks and Complications?
Rhinoplasty risks and complications include:
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Bleeding
Minor bleeding is common after this procedure. Mild nosebleeds after surgery are normal. Your surgeon will inform you about ways to prevent bleeding problems.
Heavy bleeding is rare but can have serious consequences. This type of bleeding may occur immediately after the procedure, or it may occur several weeks later and requires immediate medical attention.
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Infection
Since surgery is an invasive method, rhinoplasty surgery involves infection risks.
Signs of infection to watch out for include:
- Fever of 38° C or higher
- Redness that starts on the wound line and spreads around
- Yellow pus-like, foul-smelling fluid around the wound
- Pain that cannot be controlled with medications
- Mild infections usually improve with the use of antibiotics. Although infections are rare after this procedure, they can affect the final results of your operation. In such cases, extra surgery may be required.
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Respiratory Problems
It is quite normal to experience breathing problems in the first week after surgery due to swelling in the nostrils.
As a result of swelling in the nose, the air flow in the nose decreases. This problem disappears after full recovery.
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Loss of Smell
Changes in your sense of smell after rhinoplasty are typically temporary and are often only detectable during medical evaluations.
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Damage to the Nasal Septum
During this procedure, damage to the cartilage wall in the center of the nose (septum) may occur. Depending on the extent of the damage, there are medical and/or surgical options for repairing this damage. Your doctor will inform you about this during the consultation.
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Scar
Scars from rhinoplasty surgery are usually invisible, especially if your doctor uses a closed incision approach. The healing time of your wounds depends entirely on the strength of your skin. Your surgeon will give you information about the scars that may occur specific to the technique.
Where and by whom is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Performed?
Nasal aesthetics can be performed by a plastic surgeon or an otolaryngologist. It is important that the doctor who will perform Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) is competent and experienced in the field. It is important that the doctor who will perform the rhinoplasty meets the expectations of the patient as well as being able to convey to the patient what is necessary and what is unnecessary.
Sometimes patients can insist on the nose shape they want. However, this is not possible in all cases. In order for the doctor who will perform the surgery to explain this situation to the patient, he must first establish a bond of trust with him. Therefore, every detail should be discussed openly with the doctor. It is possible to have a nose surgery in a state hospital. Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) can also be performed in private hospitals.
After Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)
What is the Recovery Process After Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Surgery?
- Hospitalization will be required for 1 day after the operation.
- Liquid or soft foods should be preferred in the first days.
- It is normal to see edema and bruises in and around the eyes and will subside in a few days. It is good to make ice compresses with your doctor’s approval.
- Keeping your head above the heart level while lying down reduces edema and bruises.
- If there is a tampon inside your nose, it can be removed after 2 days. The insertion and removal of new generation tampons is very easy and fast.
- It is necessary to rest for 1 week before returning to daily life.
- If a splint or plaster is placed on the nose, it is removed approximately 7 days later. It is important not to get wet during this time.
- You can travel only 10 days after the operation.
- For 2 weeks, it is necessary to avoid movements such as pushing, blowing, bending, heavy lifting and exercises that require effort. It may take 3-4 weeks for the wounds in the nose to heal and the internal edema to subside.
- After the operation, it is necessary to be protected from direct sunlight for at least 1 month. It is recommended not to use glasses for 1-3 months.. The swelling in the nose disappears to a great extent from the first month. With each passing day, the shape of the nose will become clearer.
- 12 months after the operation, almost all of the swelling in the nose will go down and your surgical scar, if any, will be completely obscured.
Rhinoplasty: Frequently Asked Questions
What is rhinoplasty and what can it correct?
Rhinoplasty, commonly referred to as a “nose job,” is a surgical procedure performed to change the shape, size, or proportions of the nose. It is one of the most versatile procedures in plastic surgery because it addresses both aesthetic and functional concerns.
Aesthetically, it can correct a nasal hump, a wide bridge, a drooping or bulbous tip, and asymmetry. Functionally, it can repair a deviated septum (septoplasty) to improve breathing and correct structural defects caused by trauma or birth conditions.
How long is the recovery time after a nose job?
The recovery timeline for rhinoplasty is a gradual process. Most patients can return to work or school within 10 to 14 days.
Here is a general breakdown:
- Week 1: The nasal splint is removed. Bruising and swelling around the eyes begin to fade.
- Week 2-3: Most visible swelling and bruising subside. You can return to light daily activities.
- Month 1: Initial results are visible, and you may resume moderate exercise.
- 1 Year: The healing is complete. Minor residual swelling, especially in the tip, finally disappears, revealing the permanent shape.
Is rhinoplasty a painful procedure?
Surprisingly, most patients report that rhinoplasty is not as painful as they expected. Since the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, you will not feel anything during the operation. After surgery, most patients describe a feeling of “congestion” or “pressure” rather than sharp pain.
Oral pain medication is usually only necessary for the first 3-5 days. The most “uncomfortable” part is typically the inability to breathe through the nose for the first week while the internal splints are in place.
What is the difference between Open and Closed Rhinoplasty?
The choice between open and closed techniques depends on the complexity of the nose and the surgeon’s preference:
- Open Rhinoplasty: Involves a small incision across the columella (the tissue between the nostrils). This gives the surgeon full visibility and is ideal for complex structural changes or revisions. The scar is virtually invisible once healed.
- Closed Rhinoplasty: All incisions are made inside the nostrils. There is no external scarring and typically a slightly faster recovery time, but it offers limited access for complex reshaping.
Are the results of rhinoplasty permanent?
Yes, the structural changes made during a rhinoplasty are permanent. While your face will continue to age naturally over time, the fundamental improvements to the nasal bridge, tip, and airway remain constant.
Because the results are permanent, it is vital to choose a board-certified surgeon and wait until the nose is fully developed (typically age 16 for girls and 17-18 for boys) before undergoing the procedure.
Will I have visible scars after my nose surgery?
In a closed rhinoplasty, there are no visible scars because all incisions are internal. In an open rhinoplasty, there is a tiny incision made on the underside of the nose. However, because this incision is placed in a natural crease and closed with fine sutures, it typically heals so well that it becomes nearly impossible to see even from a close distance.

