Rhinoplasty, or nose surgery, is a surgical procedure that changes the shape, size or breathing function of the nose. It can aim at cosmetic change, functional improvement, or both. At İstanbul Burun Estetiği, our clinic in Yalı Ataköy, Bakırköy, Istanbul, we perform rhinoplasty with a planning approach that guides you through the whole process, from the first consultation to long-term follow-up, and that is made for the individual. This page explains what rhinoplasty is, who it may suit, the difference between the open and closed techniques, the stages of the operation, recovery, the risks and what to consider when deciding. It also links to the detailed pages for every nose operation we perform.
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty is surgery that aims to improve the appearance and/or breathing function of the nose by corrections to the nasal bone, cartilage and skin. Because every nose is different, the plan is made for the individual.
“Rhino” means nose and “plasty” means shaping. Rhinoplasty works on the structure of the nose, at the centre of the face and critical for both appearance and breathing. The nose has a framework of bone in the upper part and cartilage in the middle and lower parts, covered by skin and soft tissue. During rhinoplasty these structures are examined and then shaped or supported according to the planned change.
Rhinoplasty is generally carried out for the following purposes:
- Cosmetic purposes: Correcting a bump on the bridge, shaping the tip, bringing the size or width of the nose into harmony with the face, and correcting asymmetry.
- Functional purposes: Improving breathing that has been impaired by causes such as a deviated septum, nasal valve narrowing, collapse of the nostril wings or enlarged turbinates.
- Reconstructive purposes: Correcting deformity after injury, repairing congenital anomalies or correcting an earlier operation (revision).
Rhinoplasty is an operation whose result cannot be guaranteed and varies between people. Success is the combined result of good planning, experienced performance and adherence to aftercare.
Who is rhinoplasty suitable for?
Rhinoplasty suits people who are physically and psychologically ready and whose expectations are realistic. Generally, the following are considered:
- Age and development: Growth should be complete. Surgery is therefore usually planned after adolescence; the right timing is assessed at the consultation.
- General health: Health suitable for surgery and anaesthesia. Bleeding disorders, uncontrolled chronic conditions and certain medicines affect planning.
- Expectations: Accepting that surgery is a planned improvement, not a promise of perfection.
- Smoking and nicotine: Being able to stop for a period before and after surgery.
- Time and support: Being able to set aside time for recovery and attend check-ups.
- Psychological readiness: An approach that understands that nose surgery will change the look of the face and is ready for that change.
Suitability is decided only after an in-person examination. The information on this page is general and does not replace personal medical advice.
Open and closed rhinoplasty: the two main techniques
Rhinoplasty is performed with two main techniques. The right choice is made at the consultation according to the structure of the nose, the planned correction and the surgical plan.
| Feature | Open technique | Closed technique |
|---|---|---|
| Incision | Inside the nose + small cut on the columella | Inside the nose only |
| Doctor's view | Direct view of the nasal framework | Working through a limited opening |
| Often considered for | Complex tip anatomy, marked asymmetry, revision | Limited, specific corrections |
| Visible external scar | A fine line on the columella (usually fades over time) | None |
| Swelling duration | Can last somewhat longer | Can be somewhat shorter |
For details of the techniques, see our open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty pages.
Nose operations we perform at the clinic
Rhinoplasty is not one single operation but a family of procedures aimed at different areas and problems of the nose. The following operations are performed at our clinic:
- Open rhinoplasty: A technique giving direct access to the nasal framework through a small incision on the columella.
- Closed rhinoplasty: A technique with all incisions inside the nose and no external scar.
- Revision rhinoplasty: Corrective surgery on a nose that has been operated on before.
- Septoplasty (deviated septum surgery): An operation that straightens the inside of the nose to improve breathing.
- Septorhinoplasty: Nose reshaping and septal correction done together in one operation.
- Nasal tip rhinoplasty: Reshaping a drooping, wide or asymmetric tip.
- Dorsal hump reduction: Lowering the bump on the nasal bridge.
- Piezo rhinoplasty: Bone work done precisely with an ultrasonic device.
- Male rhinoplasty: Planning that keeps masculine lines and suits the male face.
- Rhinoplasty in thick-skinned noses: Structural support suited to skin thickness and realistic expectations.
- Saddle nose correction: Rebuilding a collapsed nasal bridge with grafts.
- Natural-looking rhinoplasty: A result in harmony with the face that does not look operated on.
- Ethnic rhinoplasty: Nose surgery that preserves your own facial character.
- Asian rhinoplasty: Options for a low nasal bridge and an under-defined tip.
Which procedure suits you is decided only at the consultation. If there are complaints in more than one area, procedures can be combined in one operation.
How is rhinoplasty performed?
The details vary with the person and the technique. The summary below is a general framework; your personal plan is set by our doctor at the consultation.
1. Anaesthesia
Rhinoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia. In some selected cases a combination of sedation and local anaesthesia may be considered. The type of anaesthesia is planned with the anaesthetist according to your health history, the extent of surgery and your preference.
2. Incisions and access to the nasal framework
Depending on the technique chosen, the nasal framework is reached from inside the nose or from inside the nose and across the columella. The skin and soft tissue are separated from the bone and cartilage.
3. Shaping
According to the planned change, a bump on the bridge is removed, the tip is shaped, the nasal bones are repositioned in a controlled way when needed (osteotomy), and a deviated septum is corrected when necessary. Cartilage grafts taken from the septum, the ear or, when needed, the rib may be used to support the nose.
4. Closure and splint
The skin and soft tissue are laid back in place and the incisions closed. An external splint is placed over the nose; in some cases silicone supports or packing are placed inside. The splint is usually removed around the first week at our clinic.
The length of surgery varies with its extent; a primary rhinoplasty commonly takes about two to four hours. Revision or cases needing extensive grafts may take longer.
Consultation and preparation before surgery
A good rhinoplasty begins at the consultation, well before the operating room. At our clinic the first meeting covers the following:
- Your expectations: It is important to explain clearly what you want to change, what you want to keep, and your goals. Showing photographs can help, but because every face is different, an exact copy is not the aim.
- Health history: Previous operations, medicines you take, allergies, bleeding disorders and chronic conditions must all be shared.
- Nasal examination: The structure of the nose, skin thickness, septum, nasal valves and breathing function are assessed; endoscopy is done when needed.
- Photographs: Photographs of the face and nose are taken from different angles, and goals are discussed with them.
- Planning: The reason for the recommended technique, alternatives, risks and the expected recovery are explained.
- Tests: Blood tests and, where needed, further imaging may be requested for anaesthetic safety.
Before surgery
- Smoking and nicotine products should be stopped for a period before and after surgery.
- Some medicines and supplements that may increase bleeding must be stopped under medical supervision before surgery. Always ask your doctor which medicine to stop and when; do not stop medicines on your own.
- Fasting instructions before anaesthesia must be followed.
- You will need someone to accompany you on the day of surgery and help at home in the first days.
Recovery after rhinoplasty
Recovery is one of the most common questions about rhinoplasty. The timeline below is a general framework; our doctor's instructions always take priority. For more detail, see our recovery page.
| Period | Commonly seen | General advice |
|---|---|---|
| First 24–48 hours | Nasal blockage, slightly bloody discharge, swelling | Keep your head raised, rest, take the medicines advised |
| Week 1 | Bruising, splint, stitches | Splint is usually removed now; do not blow your nose |
| Weeks 2–3 | Bruising fades noticeably, swelling continues | Light daily activities are usually possible |
| Weeks 4–6 | Most swelling settles | Avoid heavy exercise and activities that put pressure on the nose |
| Months 3–6 | Tip swelling slowly goes down | Continue check-ups |
| Month 12 onward | Final shape settles | Long-term follow-up |
When is the result clear?
When the splint comes off, the nose is still swollen; this is normal. Most swelling goes down in the first weeks, but fine swelling and the final shape can keep changing for months, and in some people for more than a year. Being patient and attending check-ups during this time is important.
When to seek help immediately
Contact the clinic or an emergency service without delay for uncontrolled bleeding, high fever, severe and increasing pain, shortness of breath, or redness and pus around the nose.
The anatomy of the nose: what does rhinoplasty change?
Knowing the structure of the nose helps in understanding rhinoplasty. The nose has a framework made of the nasal bones in the upper part, the upper lateral cartilages in the middle part and the lower lateral cartilages in the lower part. The septum, which divides the nose inside, is also an important part of this framework. All of these structures are covered by skin and soft tissue.
- Nasal bones and the bridge: Form the upper third of the nose. They determine the line of the bridge in profile; a bump forms here.
- Upper lateral cartilages: Shape the middle part of the bridge; they form part of the internal valve and matter for breathing.
- Lower lateral cartilages and the tip: Determine the shape, projection and rotation of the tip.
- Septum: Divides the nose into right and left passages and supports the tip and bridge.
- Turbinates: Folded structures inside the nose that humidify and warm air. When they enlarge they can cause blockage.
- Skin and soft tissue: Their thickness affects how visible the underlying framework will be and how long swelling will last.
During rhinoplasty one or several of these structures are worked on. Because the parts of the nose are linked, a change in one can affect the others, so planning is made by looking at the nose as a whole.
Cartilage grafts in rhinoplasty
A graft is a piece of cartilage (rarely bone) placed to support or shape the nose. Not every rhinoplasty needs a graft, but grafts are often used to support the tip, to smooth the bridge, to keep the airway open or, in revision, to rebuild lost support.
The sources of graft are:
- Septal cartilage: Found in the same operative area and needs no extra incision. It is the first-choice source in many cases.
- Ear cartilage: Its curved shape suits the tip; it is taken through a small incision behind the ear.
- Rib cartilage: May be preferred when more and stronger cartilage is needed, especially in revision; it needs an extra incision on the chest.
The need for grafts and their source are planned at the consultation, and the advantages and risks of each are explained.
Everyday life and aftercare
The tips below are general information and do not replace our doctor's personal instructions.
- Head position: Keeping your head raised in the first days helps swelling settle.
- Nose care: Blowing the nose is forbidden in the first weeks; keep your mouth open when sneezing. Use the solutions our doctor advises for care inside the nose.
- Splint and facial care: The splint must be kept from getting wet and from knocks. Our doctor will explain how to wash your face.
- Glasses: Glasses can press on the nose, so for several weeks they are used as our doctor advises.
- Exercise: Heavy sport and activities with a risk of knocks to the nose are avoided for several weeks.
- Sun protection: Nasal skin can stay sensitive; avoid sunburn.
- Smoking and alcohol: They can slow healing; follow our doctor's instructions.
- Flying: Timing should be agreed with our doctor.
- Check-ups: Attending check-ups regularly helps your recovery be monitored and problems be noticed early.
Risks and possible complications of rhinoplasty
As with any surgery, rhinoplasty has risks. They should be discussed openly before the operation.
- Bleeding and bruising,
- Infection,
- Complications related to anaesthesia,
- Persisting or new difficulty breathing,
- Asymmetry or not achieving the intended shape,
- Changes in shape over time at the bridge or tip,
- Temporary numbness at the tip and around the upper lip,
- Temporary change in the sense of smell (rare),
- Septal perforation (rare),
- Long-lasting swelling and skin problems,
- The need for revision surgery.
These risks are assessed individually at the consultation. Smoking, certain medicines and chronic conditions can affect them, so sharing your full health history is very important.
Results and realistic expectations in rhinoplasty
The aim of rhinoplasty is not to create a perfect nose but to reach a result that is balanced, natural-looking and in harmony with the person's face. The result is influenced by many factors, such as skin thickness, cartilage and bone structure, healing tendency and adherence to aftercare. In thick skin swelling lasts longer and the shape shows later; in thin skin small irregularities are noticed more easily.
A small proportion of patients may need revision (a second operation). This does not mean that the first operation “failed”; it is a consequence of the individual nature of healing. See our revision rhinoplasty page for more.
No result can be guaranteed. Talking openly with your doctor about your goals at the consultation helps keep expectations realistic.
What to look for when choosing a doctor and clinic for rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is an operation that is hard to reverse, so the choice of doctor and clinic matters a great deal. The questions below may guide you:
- Was there an examination? Were your nose, health history and expectations assessed in detail in person? A definite plan or price given without an examination should be treated with caution.
- Was the choice of technique explained? Were you told why the technique was chosen and what the alternatives are?
- Were risks discussed? Were the risks, the recovery and the chance of revision explained openly?
- Are the promises realistic? Guaranteed results or promises of a “certain result” are a warning sign.
- Is the quote in writing? Does it say in writing what is included and excluded?
- Is there a follow-up plan? Are post-operative check-ups and channels for emergencies clear?
- Are you being rushed? Being given enough time to decide is a sign of trust.
At our clinic we make it a principle to answer all of these questions openly during the consultation and to leave you room to decide without hurry.
Common mistakes when deciding on rhinoplasty
Deciding from photographs alone
Another person's nose in a photograph may not give the same result on your face. Facial proportions, skin thickness and cartilage structure vary greatly. The aim should be not “the same nose” but “a nose in harmony with your face”.
Choosing on price alone
A quote far below the usual may mean the scope is incomplete, while a very high one may mean extra services are bundled in. It is healthier to compare scope, not just the number.
Neglecting breathing function
Rhinoplasty is not only about appearance. A cosmetic operation done without assessing the inside of the nose can cause breathing problems.
Deciding in a hurry
Taking enough time to decide, getting a second opinion and clarifying your questions is your right. Decisions taken under pressure increase the risk of regret.
Underestimating recovery
Knowing that swelling, bruising and a period that needs patience lie ahead helps keep expectations realistic. It is important to arrange time and support for recovery.
Not following post-operative instructions
Behaviour outside the instructions, such as smoking, heavy exercise, pressure or knocks to the nose, can affect the result. Attending check-ups regularly and following advice keeps the process safe.
What affects the cost of rhinoplasty?
The cost of rhinoplasty is not one fixed number. The technique, the extent of surgery, whether it is a primary or revision operation, the need for grafts and their source, the type and length of anaesthesia, hospital and theatre conditions, and post-operative check-ups all affect the price. Because we cannot state a fair amount without an examination, we do not publish a figure here; the exact amount is set in a written quote after your consultation with us. We put in writing what the quote includes and excludes. See our cost page for more.
Rhinoplasty at our clinic
İstanbul Burun Estetiği is a rhinoplasty clinic in Yalı Ataköy, Bakırköy, Istanbul. Our process has four stages:
- Consultation: Your expectations, health history and nasal structure are assessed together with our doctor.
- Planning: The technique, risks and alternatives are shared with you, and needed tests are requested.
- Surgery: The planned procedure is carried out under suitable anaesthetic conditions.
- Follow-up: The splint and stitches are removed at the clinic, followed by planned long-term check-ups.
For patients travelling from outside Istanbul or from abroad, accommodation, the length of stay for the first check-up and follow-up arrangements after returning home should be planned in advance. You can ask us about these when you arrange a consultation. You can also see our frequently asked questions page.
Frequently asked questions about rhinoplasty
A surgical procedure that changes the shape, size or breathing function of the nose. It can aim at cosmetic change, functional improvement, or both.
In people whose growth is not complete, surgery is usually postponed. The right timing is assessed at the consultation.
You feel no pain during the operation because it is done under anaesthesia. In the following days most people report mild to moderate discomfort that can be managed with painkillers; experience varies.
A primary rhinoplasty commonly takes about two to four hours. Revision or extensive graft cases may take longer.
Neither is better than the other. The right choice is decided at the consultation according to the structure of the nose, the planned correction and the surgical plan.
Most swelling settles in the first weeks, but the final shape often takes 12 months or longer.
It can both improve and worsen breathing. Nasal function should be assessed before surgery and included in the plan.
For desk work most people return in about 1–2 weeks; physical jobs may take longer. This depends on our doctor's assessment.
Heavy exercise and sports with a risk of knocks to the nose are usually avoided for several weeks. Gentle walking may be possible earlier with our doctor's approval.
A small proportion of patients may need an additional correction. No operation can guarantee a result.
A fair amount can only be set once the nose has been examined and the extent of the planned procedure is known. A general figure can be misleading.
Reach us by phone, WhatsApp or email to arrange a consultation. Our clinic is in Yalı Ataköy, Bakırköy, Istanbul.