Rhinoplasty (FAQ)

Op. Dr. Fatih Dağdelen · Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery 

1. What is rhinoplasty?
  • Rhinoplasty is a surgical procedure performed to correct the shape, size and aesthetic appearance of the nose.
  • This operation is not only performed for aesthetic purposes, but can also be applied to solve functional problems such as breathing problems, congenital abnormalities and post-traumatic deformities.
  • Rhinoplasty is an important operation for improving a person’s facial proportions and ensuring the overall harmony of the face.
  • There are two main techniques, open and closed rhinoplasty; the choice is determined according to the patient’s needs.
  • It is one of the most frequently performed aesthetic surgeries in Turkey and holds an important place in health tourism.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What is rhinoplasty?

2. How popular is rhinoplasty in Turkey?
  • Turkey performs 7% of rhinoplasty operations worldwide.
  • Every year, about 83,000 people have rhinoplasty surgery in Turkey.
  • Rhinoplasty accounts for 15% of all aesthetic surgical procedures performed in Turkey.
  • Because of its medical infrastructure, experienced surgeons and affordable costs, Turkey has become a worldwide center for rhinoplasty.
  • Not only in Turkey but around the world, it is considered one of the most in-demand aesthetic surgical operations.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How popular is rhinoplasty in Turkey?

3. What is the most suitable age range for rhinoplasty?
  • Rhinoplasty can be performed after the age of 16-17 for women and 17-18 for men.
  • The reason for this is that the nasal and facial bones need to be fully developed.
  • A 12-year-old child absolutely cannot have rhinoplasty, because bone development is not yet complete.
  • Can a 75-year-old person have rhinoplasty? Yes, it is theoretically possible. However, since aesthetic concerns are lower in older age groups, nose surgery is usually performed on younger people.
  • The oldest rhinoplasty patient was 67 years old and stated that she had wanted to have this surgery since her youth.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What is the most suitable age range for rhinoplasty?

4. What are the reasons for having rhinoplasty?
  • Aesthetic concerns: Rhinoplasty may be preferred for aesthetic reasons such as a humped nose, a drooping nasal tip or a wide nose structure.
  • Functional problems: Surgery can be performed to eliminate respiratory problems such as breathing difficulties, septal deviation and nasal congestion.
  • Psychological and social effects: Factors such as increasing self-confidence, feeling more comfortable and looking better on social media and in photographs are influential.
  • Post-traumatic correction: Surgery may be needed to correct nasal deformities resulting from accidents, falls or congenital defects.
  • Fit of glasses: Wearing glasses can become difficult due to a wide nasal root, so rhinoplasty may be preferred.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What are the reasons for having rhinoplasty?

5. How is rhinoplasty surgery performed?
  • It is performed under general anesthesia, and a comfortable operation process is provided by ensuring that the patient is unconscious.
  • It takes 1-1.5 hours on average, but revision rhinoplasty or complex cases may take longer.
  • Open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty are the two different techniques used. In the open technique a small incision is made under the nose, while in the closed technique the incisions are entirely inside the nose.
  • Modern techniques such as piezo surgery and ultrasonic rhinoplasty can be used; these are less traumatic and speed up the recovery process.
  • Patients usually stay in hospital for one night and are discharged the next day.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How is rhinoplasty surgery performed?

6. What is the recovery process like after rhinoplasty?
  • During the first week, there is a splint and bandages on the nose; these are removed under the doctor’s supervision.
  • Swelling and bruising decrease significantly within the first 1-2 weeks, but it may take a few months for them to disappear completely.
  • It takes about 1 year for the nose to settle completely; small changes may occur in the nose during this period.
  • Heavy sports and intense physical activities should be avoided in the first weeks.
  • Attention should be paid to care of the inside of the nose; sprays and moisturizers recommended by the doctor should be used.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What is the recovery process like after rhinoplasty?

7. What complications can occur after rhinoplasty?
  • Swelling and bruising: These can occur within the first few weeks after surgery.
  • Temporary breathing problems: Nasal congestion may be felt in the first weeks due to swelling inside the nose.
  • Nasal asymmetry: Rarely, asymmetry may form during the healing of the nasal bones and revision may be needed.
  • Risk of infection: With a very low probability, infection may develop after surgery.
  • Unsatisfactory results: There may be a difference between the expected result and the result achieved, in which case revision rhinoplasty may be needed.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What complications can occur after rhinoplasty?

8. What is revision rhinoplasty?
  • It is a second surgical procedure performed to correct the result of a previous nose surgery.
  • The rate of revision surgeries is about 10-15%, meaning that some patients may need additional correction after the first surgery.
  • For simple corrections, only small touch-ups may be sufficient, but in some cases cartilage support or reconstruction may be needed.
  • If the patient’s expectations are very high or they are in a psychological state in which it is difficult to be satisfied, revision surgery may become even more difficult.
  • Dr. Dağdelen has encountered a patient who had had nose surgery as many as 12 times; in such cases, the surgeon needs to analyze the patient’s expectations well.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What is revision rhinoplasty?

9. How is cartilage deficiency addressed in rhinoplasty surgery?
  • The patient’s own cartilage is used: Support can be provided to the nose by taking septal (inside the nose), ear or rib cartilage.
  • It is obtained from cartilage banks: If sufficient cartilage cannot be taken from the patient’s own body, specially stored cartilage brought via a cold chain can be used.
  • Rib cartilage is one of the strongest alternatives, but it requires a more invasive procedure.
  • Cartilage is usually used to support the nasal tip and to prevent nasal collapse.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How is cartilage deficiency addressed in rhinoplasty surgery?

10. What are the technological developments in rhinoplasty?
  • Piezo surgery: Using ultrasonic technology, it allows bone to be cut more precisely.
  • Laser-assisted rhinoplasty: It speeds up tissue healing with a less invasive procedure.
  • Artificial intelligence-assisted simulations: Before surgery, they offer the patient the opportunity to predict more accurately how they will look after surgery.
  • Rhinoplasty is an art that cannot be fully replaced by artificial intelligence, because every patient’s facial structure is different and aesthetic surgery requires a personal approach.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What are the technological developments in rhinoplasty?

11. Why is “naturalness” important in rhinoplasty?
  • A nose suited to the facial proportions keeps the person’s overall aesthetic appearance natural and gives a more harmonious expression.
  • Trendy noses (e.g. overly upturned noses such as the Barbie nose) may become aesthetically outdated in later years and patients may regret them.
  • Noses that are overly reduced or rasped too much can lead to breathing problems and may require revision rhinoplasty.
  • Natural rhinoplasty refers to surgeries performed with minimal intervention so as to be in harmony with the person’s facial structure.
  • According to Dr. Dağdelen, aesthetic surgeons are artists and should bring out the patient’s best self while preserving facial harmony.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Why is “naturalness” important in rhinoplasty?

12. What are the differences between closed rhinoplasty and open rhinoplasty?
  • Closed rhinoplasty is performed with incisions made inside the nose, and no incision scar remains on the outside.
  • Open rhinoplasty is performed by making a small incision in the area between the nostrils and allows the surgeon to see the nasal structure more clearly.
  • The closed method is preferred for lighter and smaller corrections, while the open method is more suitable for major changes and revision procedures.
  • The recovery process is usually faster in closed rhinoplasty, because the tissue is exposed to less trauma.
  • Open rhinoplasty is preferred in cases requiring more complex surgery, especially when nasal tip support or advanced deformity correction is needed.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What are the differences between closed rhinoplasty and open rhinoplasty?

13. Which activities should be avoided after rhinoplasty?
  • Heavy sports and exercise should be avoided for the first month, because an increase in blood pressure can lead to bleeding in the nose.
  • Wearing glasses is not recommended for at least 6 weeks, because it can put pressure on the bridge of the nose and disrupt the healing process.
  • Sleeping face down is harmful; it can put pressure on the nose and cause its shape to be distorted.
  • Hot baths, saunas and sunbathing are not recommended, because heat can increase swelling in the nose and delay healing.
  • The mouth should be open when sneezing, because the stitches inside the nose and the tissues that are healing may be damaged.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Which activities should be avoided after rhinoplasty?

14. Should nose massage be done after rhinoplasty?
  • Massage after rhinoplasty may be recommended by some surgeons, but it is not suitable for every patient.
  • It can help reduce nasal swelling and help edema disperse faster, but it should be done under the doctor’s supervision.
  • Incorrectly performed massages can negatively affect the shape of the nose, so the doctor’s instructions should be followed.
  • For some patients, it can help the nasal skin regain flexibility faster, but the duration and technique of the massage should be determined individually.
  • Dr. Dağdelen advises patients to attend regular doctor check-ups after rhinoplasty and not to try random massage techniques.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Should nose massage be done after rhinoplasty?

15. How long does it take for breathing problems to resolve after rhinoplasty?
  • In the first few weeks there may be breathing difficulties due to swelling and edema in the nose; this is a temporary condition.
  • The full recovery process may range from 6 months to 1 year, but most patients start breathing comfortably within 3-6 weeks.
  • If respiratory problems such as septal deviation have been corrected, breathing improves significantly.
  • The recovery process may take longer in patients who smoke, because smoking can negatively affect blood circulation inside the nose.
  • Nasal sprays and intranasal moisturizers are recommended to reduce dryness and congestion inside the nose.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How long does it take for breathing problems to resolve after rhinoplasty?

16. Can a patient who has had nose surgery have rhinoplasty a second time?
  • Yes, but it is necessary to wait at least 1 year after the first surgery, because interventions performed before the nose has fully healed can lead to more deformity.
  • Revision rhinoplasty is a more complex procedure than the first surgery, because the healed tissues need to be reshaped.
  • Cartilage deficiency is a common problem in revision surgeries, so cartilage sometimes needs to be taken from the rib or ear.
  • Patients are advised to have a detailed evaluation before deciding on revision surgery, because the risk and recovery process of the second surgery may be longer.
  • According to Dr. Dağdelen, before considering a second surgery, patients should analyze their expectations well and evaluate whether they are realistic.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Can a patient who has had nose surgery have rhinoplasty a second time?

17. What should be done to reduce swelling and bruising after rhinoplasty?
  • An ice compress should be applied to the nose and around the eyes for the first 48 hours; this helps reduce swelling and bruising.
  • Keeping the head elevated allows edema to disperse faster, so using several pillows when lying down is recommended.
  • Excessive salt intake should be avoided, because salt can increase swelling by causing water retention in the body.
  • Low-paced movements such as light walking can speed up healing by increasing blood circulation.
  • The anti-inflammatory medications and creams recommended by the doctor should be used regularly.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What should be done to reduce swelling and bruising after rhinoplasty?

18. When can makeup be worn after rhinoplasty?
  • Applying makeup to the nose area is not recommended for the first 2 weeks, because the skin is sensitive and it can negatively affect the healing process.
  • Products such as foundation and concealer can be used to hide scars, but they should be applied after obtaining the doctor’s approval.
  • Eye makeup is usually possible earlier, because it does not come into direct contact with the nose area.
  • Attention should be paid to the ingredients of makeup products in case of allergic reactions, because the skin may be more sensitive during the healing process.
  • Dermatologically tested products should be preferred for sensitive skin.

Blog Article (in Turkish): When can makeup be worn after rhinoplasty?

19. What are the most common mistakes after rhinoplasty?
  • Patients straining their nose early and making incorrect movements, for example touching the nose roughly.
  • Smoking during the recovery process can prolong the healing time by impairing blood circulation.
  • Not using sunscreen; exposure of the nasal skin to the sun’s rays while it is sensitive can cause color changes.
  • Skipping doctor check-ups can make it harder to diagnose possible complications early.
  • Starting sports early can increase the risk of taking a blow to the nose.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What are the most common mistakes after rhinoplasty?

20. Which season is the most suitable for rhinoplasty?
  • The winter and spring months are the most ideal periods, because there is less sunlight, so skin sensitivity is lower.
  • Patients who have surgery in the summer months need to protect themselves from the sun, because hot weather can increase swelling.
  • Cold weather can help edema disperse faster after rhinoplasty.
  • However, surgery can be performed in any season; what matters is that the patient takes the necessary precautions during the recovery process.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Which season is the most suitable for rhinoplasty?

21. How is a simulation done in rhinoplasty?
  • A simulation is a digital modeling method that allows the patient to see their approximate post-operative appearance.
  • With computer-assisted analyses performed on a photograph, the patient’s new nose shape is determined as an estimate.
  • A simulation does not give a 100% exact result, but it helps clarify the patient’s post-operative expectations.
  • According to Dr. Dağdelen, the simulation is also an important guide for the surgeon, because surgical planning can be done by evaluating the patient’s expectations in advance.
  • Although some patients think the simulation will give an identical result, there may be small differences depending on the healing process, skin type and bone structure.

Blog Article (in Turkish):
How is a simulation done in rhinoplasty?

22. Is nosebleeding normal after surgery?
  • Slight bleeding during the first few days after surgery is normal, but excessive or prolonged bleeding may be a sign of a complication.
  • Pink or red discharge within the first 24 hours is normal; it shows that the body has entered the healing process.
  • To reduce the risk of bleeding, patients should keep their head upright in the first days and avoid excessive physical activity.
  • Heavy sneezing or blowing the nose can damage the stitches inside the nose, so care should be taken.
  • In case of severe bleeding or bleeding with clots, a doctor must be consulted.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Is nosebleeding normal after surgery?

23. Can the nostrils be reduced after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, the width of the nostrils can be reduced aesthetically, but it is important that this procedure looks natural.
  • Nostril reduction surgery is usually performed together with rhinoplasty, but in some patients it can also be performed as a separate procedure.
  • Reducing the nostrils too much can lead to breathing problems, so functional balance should be preserved.
  • In ethnic rhinoplasties, the proportions of the nostrils may differ, so planning is done to suit the patient’s facial structure.
  • During the healing process, the nostrils may look more swollen for the first few weeks, but over time their shape settles.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Can the nostrils be reduced after rhinoplasty?

24. What should my sleeping position be after rhinoplasty?
  • For the first 2-3 weeks, you should sleep on your back with your head slightly elevated, so that no pressure is applied to the nose.
  • Lying on your side can cause the shape of the nose to be distorted; care should be taken especially in the first weeks.
  • Soft pillows can be used to avoid hitting the nose, so that the nose is protected throughout the night.
  • The mouth should be kept open when sneezing or coughing so as not to put pressure on the nose.
  • Sleeping carefully until full recovery is achieved is important for preserving the shape of the nose.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What should my sleeping position be after rhinoplasty?

25. Why does the nasal tip feel firm after rhinoplasty?
  • A feeling of firmness in the nasal tip in the first months after surgery is completely normal, because the healing process is still ongoing.
  • The nasal tip area is one of the places that collects the most edema, so it takes time for the tissues to soften.
  • If cartilage grafts were used, the firmness in the nasal tip may last somewhat longer, but it usually decreases within 6-12 months.
  • Massage techniques recommended by the doctor can be applied to reduce the firmness of the nasal tip, but self-massage is not recommended.
  • When the nose has fully settled and healing is complete, the nasal tip will gain a natural and flexible feel.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Why does the nasal tip feel firm after rhinoplasty?

26. Can nasal asymmetry form after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, nasal asymmetry can form, but it is usually caused by swelling and resolves over time.
  • During the first 3-6 months, the two sides of the nose may not look equal, because the healing process may vary in different areas.
  • When the bone and cartilage healing process is complete (within about 1 year), the shape of the nose settles.
  • If the nasal asymmetry is severe, it can be corrected with small touch-ups, but revision surgery may be needed for major asymmetries.
  • For this reason, it is important that patients are patient, because the final shape of the nose will settle within 1 year.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Can nasal asymmetry form after rhinoplasty?

27. Is the sense of smell affected after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, temporary loss of smell may be experienced due to swelling in the nose after surgery.
  • Due to nasal congestion and internal edema, patients may have difficulty smelling in the first weeks after surgery.
  • This usually resolves within a few weeks or months, because the sense of smell returns as the tissues inside the nose heal.
  • Rarely, there may be a long-term change in the sense of smell after nose surgery, but this is a very low probability.
  • If the smell problem does not resolve within a few months, it is recommended that you consult your doctor.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Is the sense of smell affected after rhinoplasty?

28. Can the bones in the nose shift after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, care should be taken in the early post-operative period because the nasal bones have not yet fully fused.
  • A blow to the nose can cause the nasal bone to shift, so great care should be taken in the first few months.
  • Especially in the first 6 weeks, since the bones have not yet fully settled, hard touches to the nose should be avoided.
  • For this reason, glasses should not be worn and no pressure should be put on the face area.
  • If a change in shape or shifting is felt in the nose, a doctor must be consulted.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Can the bones in the nose shift after rhinoplasty?

29. Can the nostrils widen after rhinoplasty?
  • Due to post-operative edema, the nostrils may look somewhat wide at first, but they will narrow as they heal.
  • Depending on the surgical techniques, the nostrils can be made to maintain their width or become smaller.
  • Additional surgical interventions may be needed for excessively wide nostrils, but this is usually a rare situation.
  • Until the healing process of the tissues inside the nose is complete, the appearance of the nostrils may not fully settle.
  • It is normal for the nostrils to look swollen for the first few months, so hasty decisions should not be made.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Can the nostrils widen after rhinoplasty?

30. Does facial expression change after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, since the nose is a central feature of the face, there may be a change in the overall facial expression.
  • Especially when the nasal tip is lifted, the person can gain a more energetic and youthful appearance.
  • When the nose is reduced too much, an imbalance may form in the facial contours, so natural proportions should be preserved.
  • A nose that is in harmony with the eyes, chin and forehead provides a more balanced facial expression.
  • For this reason, it is very important that the surgeon plans by taking the patient’s facial proportions into account.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Does facial expression change after rhinoplasty?

31. Does the nasal tip drop after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, the nasal tip may drop somewhat in the first months after surgery, but this is usually a planned situation.
  • By lifting the nasal tip slightly upward during surgery, surgeons take this natural drop into account.
  • If the cartilage support is insufficient or the nose is not strengthened enough, the nasal tip may drop further over time.
  • Especially in thick-skinned noses, some sagging may be seen in the nasal tip due to gravity, but this is a completely preventable situation.
  • If the nasal tip drops excessively, it can be lifted again with a small revision surgery.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Does the nasal tip drop after rhinoplasty?

32. Is it normal to feel cartilage in the nose after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, cartilage tissue may be felt in the nasal tip or the humped area, especially in the first months after nose surgery.
  • If cartilage grafts were used, the internal structure of the nose may be noticeable and is expected to soften over time.
  • In patients with thin skin, the bone and cartilage structure of the nose may be felt more clearly, so you should wait for the natural healing process to be completed.
  • If the cartilage in the nose can be felt excessively or noticeable protrusions form, you should see your doctor for a check-up.
  • Usually this sensation decreases within 6-12 months and the nose achieves a natural structure.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Is it normal to feel cartilage in the nose after rhinoplasty?

33. Does the structure of the nose change over the years after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, the nose may undergo slight changes over the years, because the nasal tissue can stretch over time and be affected by the aging process.
  • As people age, the nasal skin becomes thinner and in some patients the nasal tip may point somewhat downward.
  • In patients with a very thin nasal structure, the cartilage may become noticeable over time, so supportive surgical techniques should be used.
  • Smoking, excessive sun exposure and genetic factors can accelerate changes in the structure of the nose.
  • For this reason, regular doctor check-ups and healthy lifestyle habits are recommended after surgery.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Does the structure of the nose change over the years after rhinoplasty?

34. Is there a risk of the nose breaking after rhinoplasty?
  • Yes, for the first few months the nasal bones may be fragile because they have not yet fully fused.
  • The nose should be protected against hard blows for the first 6 weeks after surgery, because it has not yet fully healed.
  • If the nose breaks, its shape may change and a second operation may be needed.
  • Contact sports such as football and basketball should be avoided, and care should be taken in crowded environments.
  • Once full recovery is achieved, the nose regains its natural strength and is not affected by normal knocks.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Is there a risk of the nose breaking after rhinoplasty?

35. How is breathing tested after rhinoplasty?
  • While the nose is healing after surgery, some patients may experience temporary breathing difficulties, but these usually resolve over time.
  • Doctors can check breathing by closing each of the patient’s nostrils separately.
  • After the nasal tapes are removed, patients can test whether they breathe equally through both sides of the nose.
  • If one nostril remains completely blocked or breathing problems continue for a long time, a doctor’s evaluation is necessary.
  • In some cases, swelling or irregularities inside the nose can affect breathing and can be corrected with minor interventions.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How is breathing tested after rhinoplasty?

36. When can I start exercising after rhinoplasty?
  • Light walks can be done from the first week after surgery, but you should wait longer for heavy sports.
  • You should wait at least 4-6 weeks for activities such as running and weightlifting, because an increase in blood pressure can increase swelling in the nose.
  • Waiting at least 3 months is recommended for contact sports (such as boxing, football and basketball), because blows to the nose can distort its shape.
  • You should wait at least 1-2 months for swimming, because chlorinated water can irritate the sensitive tissues inside the nose.
  • Since there may be individual differences according to the doctor’s recommendations, personalized planning should be done.

Blog Article (in Turkish): When can I start exercising after rhinoplasty?

37. What are the most common aesthetic complaints after rhinoplasty?
  • A drooping nasal tip or an overly upturned nasal tip.
  • The nostrils looking asymmetrical or wide.
  • A collapsed appearance forming on the nasal bridge as a result of excessive rasping.
  • Irregularities remaining in the nasal bone or slight bumps on the nasal bridge.
  • Patients’ expectations not being fully met and them feeling the need for revision.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What are the most common aesthetic complaints after rhinoplasty?

38. How can nasal swelling be controlled after rhinoplasty?
  • Ice should be applied to the nose and around the eyes for the first 48 hours, because this reduces swelling and bruising.
  • The head should be kept elevated, so that edema is eliminated from the body faster.
  • Excessive salt intake should be avoided, because salt can increase water retention, making swelling even more noticeable.
  • Light massage techniques can be applied with the doctor’s approval; this method can help edema disperse faster.
  • Drinking plenty of water and eating a balanced diet can reduce swelling by speeding up the recovery process.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How can nasal swelling be controlled after rhinoplasty?

39. When can I return to social life after rhinoplasty?
  • Patients can usually return to their daily activities within 1 week, but it may take a few weeks for swelling and bruising to disappear completely.
  • People who do office or desk work can return to work within 7-10 days.
  • Those who work outdoors or in jobs requiring physical activity should wait at least 2-3 weeks.
  • Swelling and bruising can be camouflaged with makeup, but no pressure should be applied directly to the nose area.
  • The most ideal time to be in public is after 2-3 weeks, because during this period the face largely returns to normal.

Blog Article (in Turkish): When can I return to social life after rhinoplasty?

40. Why is smoking harmful after rhinoplasty?
  • Smoking delays healing by negatively affecting blood circulation inside the nose.
  • It can increase the risk of infection after surgery, because smoking weakens the immune system.
  • It slows the healing of the stitches and can cause color changes in the skin.
  • Smoking can irritate the nasal mucosa and increase breathing problems.
  • Doctors recommend not smoking for at least 4-6 weeks after rhinoplasty.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Why is smoking harmful after rhinoplasty?

41. How is dryness inside the nose eliminated after rhinoplasty?
  • Dryness inside the nose is a common condition after surgery and can be eliminated by using nasal sprays and moisturizing solutions.
  • Salt water-based nasal sprays (saline) reduce dryness by moisturizing the inside of the nose.
  • Humidifiers can be used to maintain the humidity balance of the environment; this is especially beneficial in winter when the air is dry.
  • Drinking plenty of water can reduce dryness inside the nose by maintaining the body’s overall moisture balance.
  • Moisturizing creams or ointments recommended by the doctor can be used to reduce sensitivity inside the nose.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How is dryness inside the nose eliminated after rhinoplasty?

42. Do surgical scars remain after rhinoplasty?
  • If closed rhinoplasty was performed, no visible scar remains on the outside because the incisions are made inside the nose.
  • When open rhinoplasty is performed, there may be a small incision scar in the area between the nostrils, but this scar becomes indistinct over time.
  • Creams and silicone-based gels recommended by the doctor can be used for scars to heal faster.
  • It is possible to prevent the incisions from darkening by using sunscreen.
  • In most cases, scars after surgery lose their visibility within a few months and become unnoticeable.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Do surgical scars remain after rhinoplasty?

43. Is rhinoplasty different for thick-skinned noses?
  • Yes, in thick-skinned noses it may be more difficult to define the nasal tip, because the thickness of the skin can hide the structures beneath it.
  • In such noses, cartilage grafts that support the nasal tip are usually used, so that the shape of the nasal tip is preserved.
  • The recovery process may take longer, because swelling goes down later and the final shape settles later.
  • The surgeon should reduce the nose while preserving its natural appearance and provide shaping that suits the skin.
  • Patience is important, because in thick-skinned noses the final result may take up to 1.5 years.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Is rhinoplasty different for thick-skinned noses?

44. How should skin care be done after rhinoplasty?
  • Harsh peels or face masks should not be applied to the nose for the first month, because the nose may be sensitive.
  • Keeping the skin moisturized speeds up healing and prevents flaking that may occur due to dryness.
  • Using sunscreen is very important, because newly healed tissues may be sensitive to sunlight.
  • Overly oily products should be avoided, because excess oiliness around the nose can clog the pores.
  • The skin care routine should be maintained using gentle cleansers and moisturizers recommended by the doctor.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How should skin care be done after rhinoplasty?

45. When does under-eye bruising go away after rhinoplasty?
  • Bruising usually becomes noticeable in the first 1-2 weeks after surgery and decreases over time.
  • Applying an ice compress within the first 48 hours can help bruising go away faster
  • Creams containing vitamin K or anti-inflammatory creams can heal bruising quickly.
  • Keeping the head slightly raised while sleeping can speed up the reduction of bruising and swelling.
  • Most patients notice that under-eye bruising has largely disappeared within 2-3 weeks.

Blog Article (in Turkish): When does under-eye bruising go away after rhinoplasty?

46. How long does nasal congestion last after rhinoplasty?
  • Congestion may be felt in the nose due to edema during the first few weeks after surgery.
  • Breathing usually improves after the intranasal tapes and silicone splints are removed.
  • During the full recovery process, nasal congestion decreases over time, but this period may range from 1 to 3 months.
  • Salt water-based sprays can help reduce congestion by maintaining the moisture balance inside the nose.
  • If nasal congestion still continues after 3 months, a doctor check-up is recommended.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How long does nasal congestion last after rhinoplasty?

47. How does the shape of the nose change in the first month after rhinoplasty?
  • During the first month, the nose may look more swollen and wider than normal, because the edema is still continuing.
  • The nasal tip may be more upturned, because the natural drop process planned during surgery begins.
  • The side profile of the nose becomes more defined over time, because the contours become clearer as the swelling decreases.
  • Patients may feel that their nose is larger than normal in the first months, but this is the effect of swelling.
  • The real shape of the nose usually settles completely within 6-12 months.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How does the shape of the nose change in the first month after rhinoplasty?

48. How long do excessive sensitivity and numbness last after rhinoplasty?
  • It is normal to feel numbness in the nasal tip and around the nose after surgery, because the nerves may have been cut.
  • Sensitivity and numbness usually improve slowly within 3-6 months.
  • It may take up to 1 year for the nasal skin to regain sensation completely, depending on nerve healing.
  • Light massages and methods that increase blood circulation (with the doctor’s approval) can speed up healing.
  • If there is still noticeable numbness 1 year after surgery, it is recommended that you consult your doctor.

Blog Article (in Turkish): How long do excessive sensitivity and numbness last after rhinoplasty?

49. Is it possible for the shape of the nose to get worse after rhinoplasty?
  • If the nose is not supported during surgery, problems such as nasal collapse or drooping of the nasal tip may occur over time.
  • Incorrect surgical techniques can impair the natural functions of the nasal structure and cause deterioration.
  • If the patient does not follow the recommendations during the recovery process (for example, if they are exposed to an early blow or wear glasses), the shape of the nose may be distorted.
  • For this reason, choosing the right surgeon and following the doctor’s recommendations are critically important for the success of the surgery.
  • If there is noticeable deterioration in the shape of the nose after surgery, revision rhinoplasty can be considered.

Blog Article (in Turkish): Is it possible for the shape of the nose to get worse after rhinoplasty?

50. What are the most common mistakes patients make after rhinoplasty?
  • Touching the nose roughly or lying on it in the early period can cause the shape of the nose to be distorted.
  • Neglecting the medications and care instructions recommended by the doctor can prolong the recovery process.
  • Not using protection when going out in the sun can lead to color changes and spots on the nasal skin.
  • Wearing glasses in the early period can disrupt the recovery process by putting pressure on the nasal bone.
  • Building expectations from “perfect nose” examples on social media and setting unrealistic goals can lead to patients being disappointed.

Blog Article (in Turkish): What are the most common mistakes patients make after rhinoplasty?

Pre-consultation

How does the pre-consultation work?

01

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Enter your name, phone number and the procedure you are interested in.

02

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Our team will get back to you as soon as possible.

03

Let's plan your pre-consultation

A call is scheduled for a day and time that suits you.

Op. Dr. Fatih Dağdelen

Specialist in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery
Over 30 years of surgical experience; founder of Dora Hospital.