Op. Dr. Zafer Atakan | Aesthetic, Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery Specialist

Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Istanbul

Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Istanbul

Facial surgery · Patient information

Content owner: Dr. Zafer Atakan Practice · Nişantaşı, Istanbul · Updated: July 11, 2026

Rhinoplasty is surgery planned to refine the shape of the nose and facial proportions and, where necessary, to preserve or support breathing function by evaluating the internal structures of the nose. The aesthetic goal and airway safety are parts of the same plan.

What Is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)?

The nasal bridge, tip, nostrils, bone and cartilage support, skin thickness and facial profile are evaluated together. The same technique is not applied to every nose; an open or closed approach, cartilage support and bone reshaping are chosen according to need.

Nasal obstruction may not be caused by shape deformity alone. If there is a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, allergies or other causes, an ENT assessment and further investigation may be required.

Who May Be a Candidate?

  • People whose nasal development is largely complete and who have clear complaints about appearance or breathing
  • People who want a change in harmony with their facial proportions and know that computer simulation is not a guarantee of results
  • People whose general health is suitable for surgery and who can follow the restrictions of the recovery period
  • People with changes after trauma or previous surgery who understand the possibility of revision

What is assessed during the examination?

Assessment 1
The external appearance of the nose, the septum, the airway, skin thickness and cartilage support are examined.
Assessment 2
Front, side, base and three-quarter photographs are analyzed together with the whole face.
Assessment 3
Previous trauma, surgery, allergies, breathing complaints and nasal spray use are reviewed.
Assessment 4
The intended changes, structures that need to be preserved, anesthesia and the post-operative follow-up plan are explained.

How Does the Process Work?

  1. The surgical plan may include reducing, reshaping or supporting the bone and cartilage structure.
  2. Structures related to breathing can be addressed in the same session as the aesthetic correction when necessary.
  3. Splints, nasal packing or internal supports are not mandatory for every patient; their use depends on the method applied.

Recovery and follow-up

In the first days, swelling, bruising, nasal congestion and tenderness may occur. While most of the swelling subsides over time, tissue settling can take months, especially at the nasal tip and in thick skin. A personalized schedule is provided for wearing glasses, sports, the risk of impact and sun protection.

Expected results and limitations

The aim is to create a balanced appearance between the nose and the face while preserving the airway. The final result is not judged on early swelling; tissues take time to mature, and perfect symmetry cannot be guaranteed.

Alternatives and complementary options

For minor contour irregularities, nose filler may be a temporary option; it does not reduce the size of the nose, does not correct breathing and carries serious risks such as vascular occlusion. Non-surgical methods are not equivalent for structural or functional problems.

Possible risks and complications

  • Bleeding, infection, anesthesia-related problems and wound healing problems
  • Persistent breathing difficulty or the development of a new airway problem
  • Asymmetry, contour irregularity, temporary change in the sense of smell or changes in skin sensation
  • Septal perforation, loss of support or the need for a second corrective operation

Frequently asked questions

Can rhinoplasty improve breathing?

If the cause of the obstruction is related to the septum or supporting structures, a functional correction can be planned. Allergies and other causes should be evaluated separately.

When can the result of a nose job be seen?

The initial change is visible early on; however, the reduction of swelling and settling of the tissues continue for months.

Is open or closed rhinoplasty better?

Neither method is better on its own. The anatomical need, the correction to be made and the surgeon's plan are the deciding factors.

Might revision be needed after rhinoplasty?

Yes. Some patients may need additional intervention due to healing behavior, trauma, breathing problems or contour irregularities.

Further reading for patient safety: American Society of Plastic Surgeons – Rhinoplasty.

This content is for general information. The surgical decision is made after an in-person examination, medical history and the necessary tests.

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