Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty)

Rhinoplasty surgeries are surgical procedures that can be performed for breathing problems or aesthetic expectations. The nose plays an important role in both respiration and facial aesthetics. Therefore, when planning rhinoplasty, functional and aesthetic needs are evaluated together.

Functional Problems Due to Nasal Structure

Structural disorders inside the nose can make it difficult for a person to breathe properly, preventing the nose from performing its basic function. These problems can arise from congenital anatomical differences or from narrowing or blockage of the airways due to trauma, injury, or accidents.

Breathing problems can lead to poor sleep quality, fatigue during the day, and a decrease in overall quality of life. In such cases, surgical interventions aim to improve respiratory function.

Nasal Deformities

Nasal deformities can be caused by genetic factors or by trauma, falls, burns, or some diseases. These deformities, which can be aesthetically disturbing, may negatively affect a person’s self-confidence and psychological state.

Rhinoplasty surgeries aim to correct nasal deformities, improving both aesthetic appearance and the individual’s sense of well-being.

Aesthetic Nasal Surgery

People who seek nasal surgery for aesthetic reasons usually want to change the shape of their nose, which they think is not in harmony with their facial features. Before surgery, the patient’s expectations are always considered, but the final decision is made based on the doctor’s experience, facial proportions, and medical requirements.

The goal in nasal aesthetics is not to create an artificial appearance, but to achieve a natural, balanced nose that harmonizes with the face. Although the nose is at the center of the face, it should not be the focal point of attention. Therefore, rhinoplasty planning is done according to personalized measurements and analyses.

Some patients may refer to famous people and request a similar nose. In this case, the doctor’s job is to assess whether the patient really needs such an operation and, if necessary, suggest refraining from surgery. Rhinoplasty can be a suitable option if the person’s aesthetic concerns negatively affect their daily life and psychology.

Who Can Have Nasal Aesthetic Surgery?

Nasal aesthetic surgeries are performed after the completion of physical development. The bone and cartilage structure of the nose must have reached its final form. Additionally, the patient’s psychological readiness for surgery is also evaluated.

The suitability decision is made by the specialist doctor after a detailed examination, facial analysis, and evaluation of the patient’s expectations.

Revision Rhinoplasty

Revision rhinoplasty refers to surgeries performed on patients who have previously undergone rhinoplasty but are dissatisfied with the results. These surgeries are usually more complex than the initial rhinoplasty due to the changes in the nasal tissues caused by the previous surgery and require advanced surgical experience.

Deviated Nasal Septum Surgery

Deviated septum occurs when the middle partition inside the nose is crooked. This can affect only the inside of the nose or, in some cases, cause visible external curvature of the nose. This condition can cause narrowing of the airway and difficulty in breathing.

Not every nasal deviation causes respiratory problems, but in cases where oxygen intake is insufficient, sleep quality can be disturbed and daily life can be negatively affected. Based on the examination and the patient’s complaints, septoplasty surgery can improve both functional and aesthetic aspects.

What Should Be Considered Before Nasal Surgery?

Certain medications may need to be discontinued before surgery. The same rules that apply to all surgeries performed under general anesthesia also apply to rhinoplasty. During this process, all necessary information will be provided by the specialist doctor and healthcare team.

How Is Rhinoplasty Surgery Performed?

Rhinoplasty surgeries are performed under general anesthesia in fully equipped hospital operating rooms. The surgery can be performed using either an open or closed technique. The method chosen is determined based on the patient’s nasal structure and the procedures to be performed. The surgery generally lasts between 1 and 3 hours.

Post-Surgery Process

Patients are generally kept under observation in the hospital for one night after surgery. In the first few days, mild swelling and bruising may be observed, but this will decrease on its own over time. If nasal packing has been placed, it is usually removed within 2–4 days. The splints on the nose are removed on the 6th to 8th day.

In open technique surgeries, a small scar may remain at the bottom of the nose, which will become less noticeable over time.

Mild leakage and nasal congestion in the first days are normal. Due to swelling from the surgery, breathing may be somewhat difficult in the first month, but this can be managed with treatments recommended by the doctor.

Recovery and Return to Daily Life

The time to return to work depends on the scope of the surgery, the patient’s recovery speed, and their working conditions. Patients with desk jobs may return to work within a few days, as long as they do not mind the aesthetic splints; however, individuals with physically active jobs are usually recommended to rest for 7–10 days.

Smoking can negatively affect the recovery process. It is recommended to avoid sun exposure for about 3 months after surgery. Sports, swimming, and similar activities are restricted for a certain period. Details regarding the use of glasses and contact lenses should be followed according to the doctor’s recommendations.

The tissues typically fully heal, and the nose reaches its final shape within 3–6 months after the surgery.