Nose Aesthetic Surgery (Rhinoplasty)
Rhinoplasty is performed not only to reduce or enlarge the size of the nose, but also to reshape the tip of the nose, remove the hump on the nasal bridge, and correct the angle between the upper lip and the nose as well as the angle between the nose and the forehead.
Although rhinoplasty is primarily known as a cosmetic procedure that corrects the external appearance of the nose, it also includes the correction of internal structural problems such as septal deviation—which obstructs breathing—and turbinate hypertrophy, commonly referred to as enlarged nasal tissues. Correcting these issues, particularly septal deviations, during the same operation is extremely important. The cartilage obtained from this area is used for aesthetic and supportive purposes in the nasal tip, front, and structural framework. Therefore, performing separate surgeries for internal and external nasal corrections may result in the unnecessary loss of valuable cartilage material. For this reason, rhinoplasty should be performed with meticulous care by highly experienced hands.
Every individual has a unique nasal structure—differences in bone, cartilage, skin thickness, and skin oiliness significantly vary. Naturally, the techniques and approaches used during surgery also differ. Consequently, the outcome of the surgery will vary from person to person and reflect their unique anatomical characteristics. The most important factor in rhinoplasty planning is creating a customized design for each patient and each nose. A nose that harmonizes with the facial features, suits the person naturally, does not attract negative attention, and is not immediately noticeable as “operated” is considered a successful result both for the surgeon and the patient.
Aesthetic rhinoplasty is a procedure that must be performed under general anesthesia. This is essential to ensure that both the surgeon and the patient feel comfortable and free from stress during the operation. Depending on the nasal structure and deformities, either the open or closed technique is used. In closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made inside the nostrils, and the procedure is carried out internally. In open rhinoplasty, an additional small incision is made at the junction of the nose and the upper lip (columella).
Aesthetic rhinoplasty procedures typically last about two hours. During the surgery, the surgeon reshapes the nasal bones and cartilage. The dorsal hump is reduced or smoothed, the nasal sides are narrowed to eliminate width, and the nasal tip is refined and lifted. At the end of the surgery, a protective splint (thermal splint) is placed on the nose to maintain its new position.
A certain degree of swelling and bruising may occur under the eyes after the procedure; however, these usually resolve completely within a week.
The splint is removed on the 7th postoperative day. By the end of the first week, the patient has generally recovered, although swelling may still be present on the nose and face. While most of this swelling subsides within one month, full healing is completed within one year.
In the early postoperative period—approximately within the first month—the nasal tip becomes firm in structure, and mild numbness may occasionally be experienced in the tip of the nose. This is entirely normal. By the third month, the nose becomes softer, the swelling in the nasal bones decreases significantly, and by one year, the final shape of the nose becomes fully visible. Therefore, it is important to wait for this period to pass before making any judgments or final evaluations regarding the surgical outcome.
