Nose Aesthetics

Nose is an aesthetic and functional organ that significantly determines a person’s facial shape. Rhinoplasty is one of the most commonly performed procedures in modern aesthetic surgery. Cosmetic nose surgery can be broadly described as a procedure to reshape the nose. From the perspective of aesthetic surgeons, a beautiful nose should be in harmony with facial proportions and should also be compatible with a person’s social, cultural, and personal characteristics. Cosmetic nose surgery can involve reducing or enlarging the nose, changing the shape of the nasal tip or bridge, narrowing the width of the nostrils, or altering the angle between the nose and upper lip. In nose surgery, both aesthetic and functional aspects are equally important. Therefore, any breathing problems (deviation) a person may have should be corrected simultaneously with cosmetic nose surgery. Rhinoplasty surgery can enhance your self-confidence by altering your physical appearance but may not necessarily change how others treat you.

It is crucial for a person to fully express their nose-related concerns and expectations to their doctor as it greatly contributes to the success of the surgery. Therefore, discussing the problems and expectations regarding the nose clearly during the initial examination and preoperative consultation will guide the surgeon in determining the surgical plan. There are multiple criteria that can affect the outcome of aesthetic nose surgery. Results tend to be more successful in individuals with thin skin and relatively smaller noses compared to those with thick, oily skin and larger noses. The earliest age for nose surgery is around 15 for girls and 16-17 for boys. Previous nose surgeries increase the difficulty level of subsequent rhinoplasties.

At our clinic, when patients seeking aesthetic nose surgery visit us, we engage in a mutual conversation and question-and-answer session to understand the type of nose they desire and why. Following that, a detailed examination of the internal and external aspects of the nose is conducted. Working on digitally obtained photographs from different angles, we use computer software to give the person a rough idea of the nose they will have after the surgery. The patient actively participates in computerized facial analysis.

In aesthetic nose surgeries, the same surgical technique is not applied to everyone as a standard practice. For instance, the decision to use an Open or Closed technique in cases of previous surgeries or severely deviated noses is made by the doctor based on the patient’s condition.

The surgery is performed in a fully equipped hospital under general anesthesia. The duration of the surgery varies from person to person but averages around 1.5-2 hours. Patients are usually discharged on the same day or the following day. At the end of the surgery, nasal tampons and a splint are placed in the nostrils and on the nasal bridge, respectively. The tampons are removed on the 1st or 2nd day, while the nasal splint is removed one week after the surgery. Swelling and bruising may occur under the eyes. The bruising typically disappears within 7-10 days. The majority of the swelling under the eyes diminishes within 10-14 days. There is little to no pain after the surgery, and any discomfort can be easily alleviated with orally administered pain relievers. Visible swelling on the nose resolves within a month. However, complete resolution of swelling in the nose may take 3-6 months. The nose takes its final shape within 6 months. During the postoperative period, it is recommended to protect the nose from any blows for 1.5-2 months and avoid wearing glasses during this period.