Op.Dr. Hakan TEYMUR
RHINOPLASTY
NOSE AESTHETICS RHINOPLASTY
The size and shape of many elements that make up our face and even our head differ between individuals, allowing us to perceive and recognize each other uniquely. Our nose, prominently located at the center of our face, is close to our eyes and often the most altered structure for aesthetic purposes. Its central position means its harmony with other facial features is essential, depending on its size and transitional smoothness. However, the nose is not only about appearance; it also serves critical functions such as BREATHING and smell. A nose that looks good but cannot perform all its functions can make the person carrying it unhappy. Therefore, our main goal is to have a nose that is both HEALTHY and HARMONIOUS.
The functions of your nose are not just related to its external structure. Internal structures like the SEPTUM (the wall that separates the two nasal cavities) and TURBINATES (the structures that regulate airflow in the nose) are crucial for breathing. These can be corrected with functional interventions during aesthetic nose surgery. An aesthetically beautiful nose is also functional because it has ideal angles and size. Therefore, it is in your best interest to consider your doctor’s recommendations. Discussing changes to your photo together with your doctor can lead to better collaboration. The purpose of the SIMULATION done by your doctor is to align your thoughts with theirs and to plan the surgery accordingly.
Your post-operative appearance will be close to the simulation, but it is generally not possible to achieve an exact match. This is because the structures making up your nose, such as skin, cartilage, and bone, can respond unpredictably during both the surgery and the recovery period. Your nose cannot be shaped like dough; all tissues must complete the healing process to take their final shape after surgery. This period averages between 6-12 months.
PATIENTS WITH PREVIOUS SURGERY OR ACCIDENTS
If you have had previous surgery or accidents, the surgery will be more complex due to the alteration of your normal anatomy. You may not be suitable for every desired intervention, or tissue may need to be taken from other parts of your body to meet the tissue requirement.
OPERATION METHODS
There are two methods for rhinoplasty: open and closed. Both methods have their advantages and disadvantages, which are considered when determining the suitability for the patient. The open method is the most commonly applied technique today. In the open method, you will have a small scar connecting the two nostrils, which will be barely visible over time. The advantage of this technique is that it facilitates cartilage interventions and provides better control during surgery. In the closed technique, all scars remain inside the nose, but the interventions are more challenging to control. The method is chosen based on the personal needs and priorities of each patient in consultation with the doctor.
SURGERY AGE
Rhinoplasty can be performed from the age of 17 for women and 18 for men.
ANESTHESIA METHODS AND DURATION
Nasal surgeries are performed in a hospital environment under general anesthesia, lasting between 2-3 hours. At the end of the operation, a silicone pad is placed inside the patient’s nose, and a silicone plaster is placed on the back of the nose to reduce early swelling, support the new nasal structure, and ensure its shape. The patient is discharged one day after the operation. Silicone pads are removed within 2-5 days. For patients who have undergone the open rhinoplasty technique, stitches are removed on the 5th or 7th day, and the plaster cast is removed on the 7th or 8th day.
HEALING PROCESS
Immediately after the surgery, bruising and swelling may occur around the eye due to bleeding during the procedure and the skin structure of the person. This is normal. The bruising and swelling disappear completely within about 2 weeks and continue to heal daily. Although rapid improvement is observed in the first weeks after the operation, it takes between 6 months and 1 year for your nose to take its final shape.
POINTS TO BE CONSIDERED AFTER SURGERY
- Do not take a bath or stay in steamy environments.
- Do not wet the plaster and dressing on the nose, which should stay there for at least a week.
- Avoid activities that might cause close contact or impact for 6 months.
- Be careful while brushing your teeth for the first 2 weeks, and avoid excessive facial movements for 1 week.
- Do not touch your sensitive nose hard for 4 weeks and protect it from bumps.
- Do not wear heavy glasses for at least 2 months.
- Stay away from sun rays and tanning beds as they can harm your sensitive skin.