Antalya · Türkiye

Patient information

Rhinoplasty
Nose Surgery

Dr Onur Serin

Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgeon

When planning rhinoplasty, I assess your facial proportions, nasal structure, breathing and expectations together. At your rhinoplasty consultation in Antalya, I explain the changes that may be achievable, the available approaches and the limits of surgery to develop an individual plan.

Before deciding on nose surgery, it is important to understand the procedure, recovery and possible risks. This page answers common questions about rhinoplasty.

What is rhinoplasty

Rhinoplasty, commonly called nose surgery or a nose job, changes the shape of the nose and its proportions in relation to the face. Surgery involves the nasal bones, cartilage and, when needed, soft tissues. The bridge, tip, width, deviation and nostrils may be assessed.

The aim of a natural-looking result is considered in relation to your facial features and preservation of nasal support. The changes that can be achieved depend on skin thickness, cartilage structure, existing asymmetry and any previous procedures. [1]

When might nose surgery be considered

A nasal hump, a crooked nose, a wide bridge, a drooping or prominent tip, differences between the nostrils and changes after an injury can be reasons for a rhinoplasty assessment. Not every feature requires surgery; the decision depends on your wishes, examination findings and the expected benefit.

For cosmetic rhinoplasty, facial growth should be complete, general health should be suitable and expectations should be realistic. Age is assessed alongside development, health and the reason for surgery. [1, 2]

Rhinoplasty consultation and surgical planning in Antalya

During the consultation, I listen to what you would like to change. I assess the nose from the front, side and below, together with facial proportions, skin thickness and tissue support. Breathing difficulties, previous nose surgery and injuries are also included in planning.

Please share information that could affect surgery, including medicines, medical conditions, allergies and smoking. Situations in which surgery is unsuitable or should be postponed are also identified at this stage.

Computer simulation using photographs can help us discuss expectations and proposed changes. A simulated image does not mean that the surgical result will match it exactly. [3, 4]

Open and closed rhinoplasty

In open rhinoplasty, an incision is also made in the skin between the nostrils to access the nasal framework. In closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are inside the nose. These terms describe the approach used to reach the surgical area.

I assess the choice between open and closed rhinoplasty according to the extent of the changes, existing tissue support, previous operations and the surgical manoeuvres required. Different shaping and support techniques can be used with either approach.

Recovery and results depend on the procedures performed and the person's tissues as well as the approach. The consultation should explain which approach is recommended and why. [4, 5]

Piezo and ultrasonic rhinoplasty

Piezo technology uses ultrasonic vibrations to cut and reshape bone. The terms piezo rhinoplasty and ultrasonic rhinoplasty refer to its use during the bony stages of nose surgery.

In suitable cases, it may help with controlled bone reshaping. Studies have reported advantages in some early measurements of swelling and bruising. However, using piezo does not mean that bruising will not occur or that all surgical risks are eliminated.

Procedures involving the nasal tip and cartilage support are planned separately. The name of a device does not, by itself, describe the whole operation or the appropriate surgical plan for an individual. [6]

Nasal obstruction and functional rhinoplasty

Nasal obstruction can result from a deviated septum, enlarged turbinates, narrowing of the nasal valves or other causes. The inside and outside of the nose are assessed together to identify the reason for obstruction.

A deviated septum is a bend in the partition separating the two nasal passages. Surgery to straighten it is called septoplasty. When septal surgery is combined with reshaping the nose, it may form part of septorhinoplasty. Functional rhinoplasty aims to support breathing by addressing the structural problem identified.

Straightening the septum alone may not resolve a nasal valve problem. When someone wants an aesthetic change and also has breathing difficulties, both concerns should be assessed together and the suitability of combined treatment considered. [7, 8]

Nasal tip surgery and tipplasty

Nasal tip surgery addresses the shape, support, projection or angle of the tip. It may also be called tipplasty. In some patients, surgery can be limited to this area if the bridge and breathing structures are suitable.

A proposed change to the tip is considered together with the rest of the nose. An examination is needed to determine whether treating the tip alone would be sufficient. [1, 5]

Thick nasal skin and male rhinoplasty

With thick nasal skin, planning takes account of how clearly the skin may show changes to the underlying framework and how swelling may settle. The consultation should address how far expectations for a very fine or sharply defined tip are anatomically achievable.

Male rhinoplasty is also based on facial proportions, nasal support and individual preferences. The bridge, tip angle and profile balance are planned individually. The same nose shape is not an appropriate goal for every woman or man. [2, 4]

Revision rhinoplasty and secondary nose surgery

Revision rhinoplasty is further surgery on a nose that has already been operated on, to address appearance or breathing concerns. Planning considers the previous procedures, remaining cartilage support, scar tissue, skin characteristics and current symptoms.

A cartilage graft may be needed for support or reshaping. If there is not enough cartilage inside the nose, ear or rib cartilage may be considered, with an explanation of the scars and risks associated with those donor sites.

Not every difference in shape during early recovery is permanent. The need for another operation and its timing depend on healing and the nature of the problem. Cosmetic revision is usually considered after around a year; situations requiring earlier intervention are assessed separately. [4, 5, 9]

Preparing for rhinoplasty

The necessary investigations and anaesthetic assessment take place before surgery. Preparation is tailored to your medicines, supplements, smoking and medical conditions. No medicine, including a blood thinner, should be stopped without discussion with the relevant doctors.

The hospital, anaesthetic method, discharge plan and follow-up arrangements should be clarified in advance. [3, 10]

Anaesthesia and operating time

I perform rhinoplasty under general anaesthesia.

Primary rhinoplasty takes an average of 2–3 hours. Revision rhinoplasty may take 4–5 hours. Additional procedures to improve breathing, cartilage harvesting from another site and the extent of surgery can change the operating time. Discharge and any hospital stay are planned individually.

Rhinoplasty recovery and healing

Swelling, nasal congestion, tenderness and bruising can occur during early recovery. Mild blood-stained drainage may occur in the first few days. The need for an external splint, internal support or nasal packing depends on the procedure.

Early recovery and the nose reaching its final shape happen over different timescales. Bruising usually decreases over the first weeks. Nasal swelling may last longer, and definition at the tip can take months to become apparent. Assessing the result may take around a year or, in some cases, longer.

Healing and breathing are assessed at follow-up appointments. Returning to work or school, exercise and protecting the nose from injury are planned according to the procedures performed. [9, 10, 11]

Possible risks of rhinoplasty

Every medical intervention, procedure and operation carries risks. Depending on the nature of the procedure and the person's health, outcomes may include death, disability, and temporary or permanent unwanted functional and/or aesthetic effects.

No medical intervention, procedure or operation guarantees that the patient's desired result or results will be achieved.

Rhinoplasty carries risks related to bleeding, infection, breathing and healing, as well as the anaesthesia, medicines and medical materials used. These risks do not all have the same likelihood or severity; they vary with the person's health and the extent of the planned procedure.

I perform rhinoplasty under general anaesthesia. When additional procedures are planned, such as harvesting rib cartilage or tissue from another site, their specific risks are assessed separately.

This information complements your personal assessment and the information and consent process before surgery. Reading this page does not constitute consent to surgery. Any additional risks specific to you are explained during the consultation.

Open the headings below to read about surgical, anaesthetic, medical material and medicine-related risks.

Surgical risks and possible nasal problems

  1. Nausea. Nausea may occur after surgery. Treatment is provided when needed.
  2. Irritation and wounds inside the nose. The nasal lining may become irritated or develop a wound. Additional care and medicines may be needed.
  3. Nasal congestion after surgery. Swelling and crusting can cause congestion during early recovery. Its progress is assessed at follow-up appointments.
  4. Bleeding and haematoma. Bleeding can occur during or after surgery. Nasal packing, drainage of a collection of blood, further surgery or a blood transfusion may be needed.
  5. Discomfort from packing or splints. Materials placed inside the nose can cause sneezing, pressure and a feeling of blockage.
  6. Infection. Infection may develop in the nose or around materials used. Medicines, removal of the material or another procedure may be needed.
  7. Persistent or worsened breathing problems. An existing breathing problem may not resolve completely, or a new problem may develop. Medicines or additional surgery may be needed.
  8. Appearance not meeting expectations. It can be difficult to judge the final appearance before healing is complete. Shape irregularities that remain after healing may require a second procedure.
  9. Persistent or recurrent deviation. Bends in bone or cartilage may not be fully corrected. Deviation may develop again during healing or later.
  10. Tear duct injury. Changes to or injury of the tear duct can affect drainage of tears. Further assessment or surgery may be needed.
  11. Skull base injury and cerebrospinal fluid leakage. Injury to the bones or membranes at the skull base can cause cerebrospinal fluid to leak from the nose and lead to serious problems such as meningitis. Additional treatment or surgery may be needed.
  12. Unintended fractures near the upper jaw or eye socket. Unplanned fracture lines can occur during bone surgery. Additional surgery may be needed if surrounding structures or the eye muscles are affected.
  13. Problems related to rib cartilage harvesting. When rib cartilage is needed, the lining around the lung can be injured and air can collect in the chest cavity. A chest drain or another procedure may be needed.
  14. Hair loss at a tissue donor site. If supportive tissue such as fascia is taken from the scalp, temporary or permanent hair loss may occur around the incision.
  15. Device-related burns. Ultrasonic bone-cutting instruments and other surgical devices can cause thermal injury or burns to the skin or deeper tissues.
  16. Septal perforation. A hole may develop in the partition between the nasal passages. Further surgery may be needed to close it, and complete repair may not always be possible.
  17. Changes in the sense of smell. Swelling, changes in airflow, infection or effects on the olfactory area can reduce or cause loss of smell. The time to recovery varies, and a permanent problem is possible.
  18. Visual disturbance and loss of vision. Injury to the eye or surrounding tissues, or vascular problems, can affect vision. Permanent loss of vision is among the serious risks reported.
  19. Numbness and altered sensation. Effects on the nerves in the nasal skin can cause numbness or altered sensation. These changes may be temporary or permanent.
  20. Persistent or chronic pain. Pain may continue beyond the expected healing period. Medicines and, when needed, further procedures may be considered.
  21. Prolonged or persistent swelling. The way swelling settles varies between individuals. Some patients may need additional treatment for significant or prolonged swelling.
  22. Allergic reactions. Adhesive tape, sutures, products applied to the skin and medicines can cause local reactions or reactions affecting the whole body.
  23. Rhinitis and nasal discharge. Inflammation of the nasal lining can cause discharge, irritation or congestion. Allergic or vasomotor problems may require separate treatment; rhinoplasty does not eliminate all such conditions.
  24. An altered sensation of breathing. A person may feel that they cannot get enough air despite air passing through the nose. Assessment and treatment of this symptom are planned separately.
  25. Delayed healing and tissue loss. Bone or soft tissues may heal slowly. Skin or other tissue loss may require dressings, removal of damaged tissue or further surgery.
  26. Wound separation. An incision can open because of trauma, tension or healing problems. Dressings or further suturing may be needed.
  27. Changes in appearance over time. Ageing, sun exposure and changes in the tissues can affect the appearance of the nose. Not all such changes represent a surgical complication.
  28. Dissatisfaction and the need for revision surgery. The appearance, irregularities felt by touch or functional outcome may not meet expectations. Revision rhinoplasty may be needed, and a second operation does not guarantee a perfect result.
  29. Scarring and changes in skin colour. Incisions inside or outside the nose leave scars. Some scars may be wide, raised or conspicuous. Darkening or lightening of the skin can occur, and further treatment may be needed.
  30. Asymmetry. Differences between the two sides of the nose or face may remain, or new asymmetry may develop. It may not be completely corrected by further surgery.

Risks related to anaesthesia and the surgical process

  1. Breathing and lung problems. Stomach contents may enter the airway. Breathing can be suppressed, areas of the lung can collapse, or infection or air in the chest cavity may develop. Breathing support, a longer hospital stay or additional treatment may be needed.
  2. Airway and intubation problems. Placement of the breathing tube may be difficult or unsuccessful, and surgery may be postponed. Injuries to the lips, tongue, teeth, throat or airways and a sore throat after surgery can occur.
  3. Intravenous access and catheter problems. Placement of a line or catheter can cause bleeding, vessel injury, reduced blood supply to tissues or other injuries related to the insertion site. Serious tissue damage may require further treatment.
  4. Blood clots and cardiovascular problems. Clots in the deep veins of the legs, pulmonary embolism, heart attack, stroke or serious circulatory problems can occur. These complications can cause permanent harm and can be life-threatening.
  5. Reactions to anaesthetic medicines. Medicines can cause allergy or anaphylaxis, changes in blood pressure or heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, or cardiac or respiratory arrest. Malignant hyperthermia, a serious reaction involving a rise in body temperature, can also occur. Severe complications of anaesthesia can result in death.
  6. Positioning and pressure-related problems. Remaining in the same position during surgery can cause pressure on nerves, numbness, weakness, restricted movement, pressure sores or injury to the eyes or other tissues. Surgical devices can also cause burns.
  7. Problems during recovery from anaesthesia. Drowsiness, confusion or nausea may occur after anaesthesia. Smoking, obesity and existing medical conditions can increase certain cardiac, lung and clotting risks.
  8. When local anaesthetic medicines are used. These medicines can cause allergy, toxic effects related to the dose or entry into a blood vessel, seizures, abnormal heart rhythms, circulatory problems, nerve injury, haematoma, fainting or inadequate pain control. Information about these medicines does not mean that rhinoplasty is planned under local anaesthesia; the anaesthetic plan for surgery is determined separately.

Risks related to medical materials

  1. Not tolerating a material. Sutures, packing, splints or other materials may cause discomfort and may need to be removed.
  2. Infection around a material. Medicines or removal of the material may be needed.
  3. Foreign-body reaction. Tissues may react to a material. Removal or replacement may be needed.
  4. Displacement. If used, an implant or other supporting material may move or rotate, affecting shape or function.
  5. Tissue erosion and thinning. A material can cause thinning or erosion of surrounding tissues and may become visible. Removal and tissue repair may be needed.
  6. Material-related pain. Pain around a material can persist or become chronic.
  7. Material-related allergy. Itching, redness, swelling or a rash may occur, and further treatment may be needed.
  8. A feeling of blockage. Materials inside the nose can affect airflow and the sensation of breathing.
  9. Bleeding during removal. Bleeding can occur when nasal packing or similar materials are removed.

Risks related to medicines

Not every medicine carries the same risks. Risks are assessed according to the medicine, dose, route of administration, interactions with other medicines and the person's health.

  1. Severe allergy and anaphylaxis. Swelling of the face, lips, tongue or throat, difficulty breathing or swallowing, widespread itching, low blood pressure and shock may occur.
  2. Toxic effects on the nervous system. Dizziness, numbness, tinnitus, changes in vision, hearing or speech, muscle twitching and seizures can occur.
  3. Serious neurological problems. Depending on the medicine and route of administration, serious problems have been reported, including nerve injury, sensory loss, weakness, loss of movement, paralysis or inflammation of the membranes around the nervous system.
  4. Effects on the heart breathing and other organs. Changes in blood pressure or heart rate, abnormal heart rhythms, cardiac arrest, suppressed breathing, nausea, vomiting, inability to pass urine or changes in liver tests can occur.
  5. Difficulty passing urine. Temporary problems passing urine or the need for a urinary catheter may occur.
  6. Antibiotic side effects. Problems such as nausea, diarrhoea and an allergic rash may develop.
  7. Painkiller and anti-inflammatory medicine side effects. Stomach irritation, heartburn or a risk of bleeding may occur.
  8. Problems related to nasal sprays and drops. Dryness and burning can occur. Prolonged or inappropriate use of some products may maintain or worsen congestion.
  9. Bleeding related to blood thinners. The risk of bleeding may increase. Using or stopping these medicines is arranged through a joint assessment by the relevant doctors.
  10. Increased infection risk with steroids. Systemic steroids in particular can affect the immune response and increase the risk of infection.
  11. Delayed wound healing. Some steroid treatments can delay healing.
  12. Raised blood glucose. Systemic steroids in particular can raise blood glucose. People with diabetes may need additional monitoring.
  13. Stomach problems. Some steroid treatments can cause stomach problems such as gastritis or ulcers.

The expected benefits and your individual risks are discussed together before surgery. Assessment by an anaesthetist or other relevant doctors is arranged when needed. It is important to share your health history, previous operations, allergies and all medicines you use.

Contact the treatment team without delay if you develop persistent or significant bleeding, increasing pain and swelling, fever or marked breathing difficulty after surgery.

[12, 16]

Frequently asked questions about rhinoplasty

Can the nasal tip droop after rhinoplasty?

The appearance of the tip can change as swelling subsides during early recovery. This is not the same as a true loss of support. The position and support of the nasal tip can change over time.

Will rhinoplasty leave a scar?

With a closed approach, the incisions are inside the nose. An open approach also involves an incision in the skin between the nostrils. Additional procedures, such as nostril reduction or cartilage harvesting, can require other incisions. Scar visibility depends on individual healing and the procedures performed. [4, 5]

Can breathing become more difficult after nose surgery?

Temporary congestion can occur during early recovery because of swelling, crusting and internal supports. Persistent breathing difficulties, or difficulties that increase later, should be assessed. When planning rhinoplasty, I aim to preserve the airway and, where a breathing problem is present, to improve breathing as well. [7, 10]

Is nasal packing used during rhinoplasty?

The same approach is not used for every patient. The need for internal support or nasal packing depends on septal surgery, bleeding and the surgical plan. The material to be used and the timing of its removal are explained before surgery. [8]

Is there pain after rhinoplasty?

Pain, pressure or tenderness may occur during the first days. Pain relief is planned with appropriate medicines and care for the individual. Tell the treatment team about pain that is greater than expected or is increasing. [8, 10]

At what age can rhinoplasty be performed?

For cosmetic rhinoplasty, facial growth is expected to be complete. Health, maturity in decision-making and expectations are considered alongside age. Assessment may differ where there is a significant functional problem or an injury. [2, 8]

Can someone with sinusitis have rhinoplasty?

Sinusitis needs a separate assessment. Rhinoplasty does not treat every cause of sinusitis. An active infection or the need for additional sinus treatment may affect the surgical plan and timing. [13]

Can rhinoplasty be performed in summer?

Rhinoplasty can be performed in summer or winter. The season itself does not change the surgical result. Under my follow-up plan, patients must avoid swimming in the sea or a pool and wearing glasses for the first month after surgery. Sun-protection advice should also be followed. [4]

When can I shower after rhinoplasty?

Under my postoperative care plan, patients can take a full shower the day after discharge. Follow the individual instructions I give at discharge for showering and caring for the operated area.

When can I return to work after rhinoplasty?

People whose jobs do not require strenuous physical activity can generally return to work within 3–5 days after rhinoplasty. I assess the timing according to your recovery and the nature of your job. Returning to physically demanding work is planned separately.

What affects the cost of rhinoplasty in 2026

When considering rhinoplasty costs in Antalya, the assessment should include whether this is primary or revision surgery, additional breathing-related procedures, the need for cartilage grafts, the hospital where surgery will take place, anaesthesia and hospital services.

A meaningful discussion of nose surgery costs requires clarity about the planned procedures and the services included. The extent of surgery is determined after an examination. [14]

What to consider when choosing a rhinoplasty surgeon in Antalya

Alongside specialist qualifications and professional background, consider how the consultation is conducted, the reasons for the recommended approach, how risks are explained and the arrangements for follow-up.

You can ask about the changes that may be achievable, your anatomical limitations, the hospital where surgery will take place and the plan if a problem develops. [3, 15]

About Dr Onur Serin

I completed my specialist training in Plastic, Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery at Mersin University Faculty of Medicine in 2014. I have worked in private practice since 2017 and have been seeing patients at my private practice in Antalya since 2021.

Alongside rhinoplasty, I work in other areas of aesthetic surgery and nonsurgical treatments within my specialty. You can read about my education and professional background on the About page.

References

Professional background and information about the surgeon's personal practice are based on his own statements. The first 15 sources were checked on 23 October 2026. The risk information form was supplied on 25 October 2026.

  1. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty ↗
  2. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Candidates ↗
  3. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Consultation ↗
  4. Mayo Clinic Rhinoplasty ↗
  5. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Procedure Steps ↗
  6. Kisel J et al. A Comparison Between Piezosurgery and Conventional Osteotomies in Rhinoplasty on Post Operative Oedema and Ecchymosis ↗
  7. American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Position Statement Nasal Valve Repair 2026 ↗
  8. Ishii LE et al. Plain Language Summary Improving Nasal Form and Function after Rhinoplasty 2017 ↗
  9. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Recovery ↗
  10. American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Frequently Asked Questions Rhinoplasty Patients ↗
  11. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Results ↗
  12. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Risks and Safety ↗
  13. American Academy of Otolaryngology Head and Neck Surgery Clinical Practice Guideline Adult Sinusitis Update 2025 ↗
  14. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Cost ↗
  15. American Society of Plastic Surgeons Rhinoplasty Questions ↗
  16. TPRECD. Patient Information and Consent Form for Aesthetic Nose Surgery (Rhinoplasty). Risk headings adapted for this page from section 7 of the copy supplied by the surgeon. Copy supplied: 25 October 2026.