What is Rhinoplasty?

Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to improve the shape of the nose or correct respiratory problems. Rhinoplasty is preferred for both cosmetic and functional reasons. The surgery aims to provide a natural and balanced nose appearance that is compatible with the patient's facial features. The recovery process usually takes a few weeks, and the final results appear within a few months.

How is Rhinoplasty Performed?

• Before the surgery, the surgeon evaluates the patient's expectations and needs. The surgery is planned by taking into account the nasal structure, skin thickness and facial features. The patient's medical history is reviewed and imaging tests may be performed if deemed necessary.

• On the day of surgery, general anesthesia or local anesthesia is applied to ensure patient comfort.

• Rhinoplasty can be performed with an open or closed technique. Closed rhinoplasty is performed through incisions made inside the nostrils and leaves no external scars. Open rhinoplasty is performed through a small incision on the skin between the nostrils and provides the surgeon with a wider field of view.

• After the incisions, the surgeon reshapes the nasal bone and cartilage. The nasal hump is straightened. The tip of the nose is reshaped and the size of the nostrils is adjusted if necessary. At this stage, if there is a deviation in the nasal septum (septoplasty), this is also corrected.

• After the shaping process, the skin and soft tissue on the nose are placed and the incisions are closed. After the surgery is completed, a supportive splint or bandage is applied to the nose.

How Long Does Rhinoplasty Take?

Rhinoplasty, medically known as nose aesthetics, is a surgical procedure that usually takes between 1 and 3 hours. The duration of the surgery may vary depending on the extent of the procedure and the patient's specific needs. Anesthesia administration and preparation times may also affect the total duration. Depending on the patient's condition after the surgery, the patient may be discharged the same day or stay in the hospital overnight. The recovery process usually takes a few weeks, but it can take 6 to 12 months for the final results to appear.

Recovery Process After Rhinoplasty

• The patient is usually kept under observation in the recovery room for a period of time.

• On the day of the surgery, the patient may experience mild pain, swelling and bruising in the nose area. This is normal and can be controlled with painkillers prescribed by the doctor.

First 24-48 hours:

• Keeping the head elevated helps reduce swelling.

• Applying a cold compress helps relieve swelling and bruising.

• The tampons placed inside the nose and the splint outside are important to protect the nasal structure and ensure that the shape fits.

First Week

• Swelling and bruising may be noticeable, but usually begin to subside within a few days.

• The splint on the nose and the tampons inside the nose are removed one week after the surgery.

• Heavy exercise and strenuous activities should be avoided for the first week. Light walks are allowed, but shaking of the head should be avoided.

First Month

• The swelling gradually subsides, but it may take several months for it to completely subside.

• It is important to protect the nose from impacts and sunlight. To protect from the sun, sun cream with a high protection factor should be used.

• Moisturizing and cleaning the nose as recommended by the doctor will speed up the healing process.

3-6 Months

• The shape of the nose begins to become apparent, but it can often take 6 to 12 months for full healing and final results to appear.

• It takes time for the nose to take its final shape and patience is required during this process.