What is Rhinoplasty?
Located at the center of the face, the nose is crucial for both aesthetic appearance and respiratory function. Rhinoplasty, also known medically as rhinoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to harmonize the shape, size, and proportions of the nose with the rest of the face. This procedure can be performed not only for aesthetic reasons but also to address breathing problems. Rhinoplasty permanently corrects nasal humps, drooping nasal tips, wide nasal wings, or asymmetrical features. We carefully analyze each patient’s facial structure to achieve an aesthetically pleasing appearance while preserving a natural appearance.
How is Rhinoplasty Performed?
The surgery is performed under general anesthesia and takes approximately 2 to 3 hours. The surgeon accesses the nasal structure through incisions made either inside or outside the nose. Excess bone and cartilage are sculpted, the tip of the nose is reshaped, and the desired proportions are achieved. If necessary, the nasal dorsum is filed or the nostrils are narrowed. Two main techniques are used: open rhinoplasty and closed rhinoplasty. In the open technique, a small incision is made at the tip of the nose, allowing for detailed shaping. In the closed technique, the incisions are made inside the nose, leaving no scarring. We determine the most appropriate procedure based on the patient’s needs, ensuring both a natural appearance and healthy breathing.
Who is a Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
Individuals experiencing nasal deformities, post-traumatic deformities, or breathing difficulties are candidates for this surgery. Individuals who feel their nose is disproportionate to their face or are uncomfortable with their profile appearance can also undergo rhinoplasty. Congenital nasal deviations, humps, or wideness can also be corrected with rhinoplasty. The nose must be fully developed, which is usually achieved after the age of 17-18. We develop the most appropriate surgical plan by considering our patients’ facial proportions, skin texture, and expectations, ensuring an aesthetically pleasing result without compromising the natural expression.
Types of Rhinoplasty
Rhinoplasty is categorized into different types based on its purpose and method. Aesthetic rhinoplasty is performed to harmonize the nose with the face. Functional rhinoplasty, on the other hand, aims to correct breathing problems. Revision rhinoplasty is performed to correct undesirable results in patients who have previously undergone surgery. Furthermore, septorhinoplasty simultaneously addresses both aesthetic and functional issues. Medical rhinoplasty (nasal reshaping with fillers), a non-surgical procedure, is temporary and requires no incisions. We select the technique most appropriate for our patients’ needs, achieving a natural, aesthetically pleasing nose shape that is harmonious with the face.
Differences Between Aesthetic and Functional Rhinoplasty:
Rhinoplasty is generally performed for two main purposes: aesthetic and functional. Rhinoplasty aims to harmonize the shape of the nose with the facial features. It corrects visual problems such as a nasal hump, a drooping nasal tip, or an asymmetrical structure. Functional rhinoplasty, on the other hand, addresses breathing difficulties, a deviated septum, or narrow airways. Some patients experience both aesthetic and functional issues, so a combined procedure called septorhinoplasty is preferred. While a rhinoplasty is a cosmetic procedure, functional rhinoplasty aims to promote healthy breathing. By combining these two approaches, we simultaneously achieve both aesthetic balance and respiratory comfort.
Things to Consider Before and After Rhinoplasty:
The patient’s health, nasal structure, and skin characteristics are thoroughly evaluated before surgery. Blood thinners should be discontinued at least one week prior, and smoking and alcohol consumption should be reduced. On the day of surgery, the skin should be clean and makeup should be avoided. For the first week after surgery, avoid blows to the nose, avoid lying face down, and avoid strenuous exercise. Cold compresses reduce bruising and swelling. Additionally, silicone splints placed inside the nose are usually removed after a few days. Glasses should be discontinued for at least one month. We provide detailed preoperative preparation and postoperative care, ensuring a safe recovery for our patients.
How Long Does Rhinoplasty Take?
The procedure itself varies depending on the extent of the procedure and the nasal structure. It typically takes between two and three hours. If the nasal hump needs to be trimmed, the tip needs to be reshaped, or breathing problems need to be addressed, the procedure may take a little longer. The surgery is performed under general anesthesia, and the patient feels no pain during the procedure. While simple corrections may take less time, revisions or functional interventions can take up to four hours. We carefully plan the procedure time, taking each patient’s needs into account, and achieve safe and aesthetic results in the shortest possible time.
What is the Recovery Process Like?
While the recovery process after rhinoplasty varies from person to person, it is generally quite comfortable. Mild swelling, bruising, and a feeling of congestion may occur in the first few days. These symptoms subside significantly within 5 to 7 days. The splint placed on the nose is usually removed after a week. The stitches dissolve on their own or are removed by the 7th day. It is important to be careful and protect the nose from impacts in the first two weeks. The final shape is fully established within 6 to 12 months. During this period, the nose gradually refines and takes on a natural appearance. We monitor the postoperative period step by step, ensuring a comfortable and healthy recovery for our patients.
When Are Rhinoplasty Results Visible?
The results of rhinoplasty are gradual. It’s normal to experience swelling and bruising in the first weeks after surgery, and the nose shape may not be fully defined during this time. Most of the swelling subsides within the first two weeks, and the nasal contours begin to become more defined. The nose shape approaches its natural appearance within approximately two to three months. The final result typically takes six to twelve months to fully develop. During this time, the shape of the tip, its slimming, and its harmony with the face gradually improve. We closely monitor the healing process, ensuring our patients achieve natural, harmonious, and lasting aesthetic results.
Is Rhinoplasty Permanent?
Yes, rhinoplasty is a permanent procedure. After surgery, the new shape of the nose is achieved by reshaping the bone, cartilage, and skin tissue. This means the structure of the nose is completely transformed, and the resulting aesthetic appearance is maintained for many years. However, factors such as trauma, serious impact, or skin loosening due to aging can cause minor changes over time. However, the results of a professionally performed surgery last a lifetime. We create surgical plans that ensure long-term satisfaction and achieve permanent results, both aesthetically and functionally.
Rhinoplasty Prices 2025
Rhinoplasty prices in 2025 generally range between 3,000 USD and 8,000 USD, depending on surgical technique and surgeon’s expertise. This procedure reshapes the nose to improve both aesthetic appearance and breathing function when necessary. Costs vary with the complexity of the surgery, hospital facilities, and whether it is primary or revision rhinoplasty. Additional expenses such as anesthesia and post-operative care may also influence the total price. On average, rhinoplasty is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries, offering long-lasting results and enhanced facial harmony.
When Does Swelling Regress After Rhinoplasty?
It’s normal to experience swelling in the nose and around the eyes in the first few days after surgery. This swelling usually subsides significantly within 5 to 7 days. Nasal contours begin to appear within the first two weeks, but it can take 3 to 6 months for any subtle swelling to completely subside. Skin type and tissue structure can affect this process; results are seen more quickly in patients with thin skin. The final appearance usually takes about a year to fully develop. We closely monitor the postoperative process and make the process comfortable with appropriate care and cold compresses to help the swelling subside more quickly.
Is Rhinoplasty Painful?
Because the surgery is performed under general anesthesia, the patient will not feel any pain during the procedure. There may be a slight feeling of nasal tightness, congestion, or pressure in the first few days after the procedure, but this is short-lived. Thanks to modern surgical techniques and silicone splints that do not impede breathing, recovery is quite comfortable. Mild painkillers prescribed by the doctor are sufficient. We prioritize the comfort of each of our patients, ensuring a pain-free surgery.
Is Non-Surgical Rhinoplasty Possible?
Non-surgical aesthetic methods can be used for some nasal shape issues. In this procedure, known as “medical rhinoplasty,” the bridge, tip, or sides of the nose are reshaped using fillers. This procedure can temporarily correct minor depressions, asymmetries, or drooping nasal tips. The procedure takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and the results last 12 to 18 months. However, medical rhinoplasty cannot correct bone structure or breathing problems. Permanent structural changes require surgical rhinoplasty. We determine the appropriate procedure based on our patients’ needs, ensuring natural and balanced results.
Does the Social Security Institution (SGK) Cover Rhinoplasty?
The Social Security Institution (SGK) only covers functional procedures (septoplasty) performed for breathing problems. This means that nose reshaping surgeries performed for aesthetic purposes are not covered by the SGK. However, if the nasal deviation causes severe shortness of breath, the SGK may cover a portion of the procedure, provided it’s documented in a report. Cosmetic correction procedures are considered private healthcare services. You can obtain a quote from us to learn detailed cost information for 2025 and have a procedure planned for both functional and aesthetic purposes.
When Can You Exercise After Rhinoplasty?
For the first two weeks after surgery, strenuous exercise, bending movements, and activities that could put pressure on the nose should be avoided. Light walking can be resumed after the 10th day. Weightlifting, running, swimming, or contact sports are generally recommended after 6 to 8 weeks. It is crucial to avoid any impact to the nose during this period. Furthermore, sweating and pressure during exercise can increase swelling. We provide our patients with detailed guidance on which activities can be resumed and when, ensuring a safe recovery.