Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty): What It Is, Why It's Done, Methods, and Treatment

All surgical procedures aimed at altering the shape of the nose are collectively known as nose aesthetics or rhinoplasty. Rhinoplasty is frequently performed to achieve a more aesthetically pleasing nose structure, make shape adjustments to match personal preferences, and correct deformities that negatively affect nasal functions, such as breathing and sense of smell. By performing procedures on the nasal bone and cartilage tissues, a healthy nasal structure can be achieved, and changes to the appearance of the nose can be made to ensure an ideal facial proportion. With advancements in medical technology, nose surgeries are now performed in a much simpler way compared to the past, often using closed techniques or small incisions whenever possible. When issues such as a dorsal hump, drooping nasal tip, nose size, and other concerns that cause visual discomfort are addressed through these operations, patients can live their lives more comfortably and healthily from a psychological perspective.

What Is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)?

Nose aesthetics, also known as rhinoplasty or nasoplasty, refers to surgical procedures performed on the nasal bone and cartilage tissues. Rhinoplasty is commonly chosen both for treating structural abnormalities in the nose caused by congenital issues or trauma and for correcting unwanted nasal appearances. Many rhinoplasty procedures combine both therapeutic and cosmetic purposes, as a large portion of nasal deformities that affect appearance also negatively impact breathing functions. However, aesthetic nose surgeries can also be performed solely for visual enhancement if the appearance causes discomfort.

Before deciding on nose aesthetics, the individual must undergo an examination to determine if their nasal structure is suitable for rhinoplasty. Since the nose has a direct impact on facial appearance, even minor modifications can yield noticeable results. Therefore, choosing suitable techniques and having the surgery performed by experienced surgeons is crucial.

How Is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Performed?

The rhinoplasty process begins with an initial examination by a specialist doctor. During this consultation, the patient's concerns, desired changes, and the suitability of these changes for their nose or face structure are discussed between the doctor and the patient. A thorough examination can also help detect any issues that may hinder a rhinoplasty procedure. If no structural problems are found, general health checks should be conducted to rule out conditions, like bleeding disorders, that could complicate the surgery.

For patients deemed suitable for the operation, open communication between doctor and patient is essential to ensure the patient's expectations are clearly understood, which helps prevent undesired outcomes and minimizes the need for revision surgeries. Photos of the nose from various angles are taken to create an approximate preview of the desired changes on a larger screen. These visual tools are beneficial in establishing a clear understanding between doctor and patient during the planning phase.

On the day of the operation, local anesthesia may be applied for minor interventions, while general anesthesia is used for more extensive procedures. The duration of surgery varies depending on the specific interventions planned, with an average rhinoplasty procedure lasting a few hours. After the surgery, performed using either open or closed methods as appropriate for the patient, they are kept under observation for a certain period before being discharged.

Why Is Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Performed?

Nose aesthetics can be performed in various situations to address health issues or unwanted deformities in the nose. Common reasons for rhinoplasty include:

• Congenital or acquired shape deformities in the nose
• Curvature or protrusion in the nasal bone
• Breathing difficulties and complaints like snoring caused by structural problems
• Discomfort with the appearance of the nose or the need for any shape changes
• A nose that is too large or too small
• Issues with the angle of the nose
• Abnormally small or large nostrils
• Problems such as drooping, lifting, sharpness, congestion, or asymmetry of the nasal tip

Who Can Undergo Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)?

Nose aesthetics is one of the most commonly performed surgical operations, sought by many for various reasons. An important consideration in rhinoplasty is that, in cases where the surgery is requested solely for aesthetic reasons, the patient's age should be taken into account. If there are no functional issues with breathing or sense of smell, and the operation is for aesthetic concerns, it is important to wait until the cartilage development is complete. Therefore, in such cases, the ideal age for the procedure is between 15 and 18 years, as recommended by a doctor, when the nasal bone and cartilage development is finished. However, if there is a functional disorder or a problem that negatively impacts the child's psychological development, rhinoplasty may be performed at younger ages with the approval of a physician.

What Are the Methods of Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty)?

Nose aesthetics surgeries are generally performed using one of two main techniques: open method and closed method. Depending on the specific problem to be treated, special aesthetic techniques may also be used. The key characteristics of these two primary surgical techniques are as follows:

Open Rhinoplasty

Open rhinoplasty is performed through a small incision made at the bottom of the area between the nostrils. The primary advantage of this method is that it gives the surgeon a wide view of the surgical area, making it safer and more commonly preferred for major surgeries. The surgeon has greater control over the surgical area compared to the closed method, allowing for precise calculations and significant changes to be made safely. The recovery time is generally longer compared to the closed method.

Closed Rhinoplasty

In closed rhinoplasty, the surgery is performed through an incision inside the nose, leaving no visible external stitches, scars, or wounds. The incision is made inside the nose, avoiding the wing areas, to reach the cartilage, bone, and underlying tissues. After performing the necessary interventions, the incision is closed with stitches. While the working area is more limited than in open surgery, closed rhinoplasty offers advantages such as shorter recovery time (since the tip of the nose is not operated on) and a reduced risk of scarring.

In addition to the two main rhinoplasty techniques above, surgeries performed with the help of an ultrasonic bone cutter called a piezo device are referred to as "piezo rhinoplasty." Adjustments to the nasal tip, which make up a significant portion of rhinoplasty surgeries, require unique approaches and surgical techniques. These operations are called nasal tip aesthetics or tip rhinoplasty. In cases where the concha (turbinates) in the nose need to be reduced, the use of laser techniques results in what is called laser rhinoplasty. Additionally, if there are ongoing issues or mistakes that need to be corrected after a rhinoplasty, secondary rhinoplasty surgeries are planned to address these concerns.

Nose Aesthetics (Rhinoplasty) Treatment Process

The rhinoplasty treatment process requires more meticulous attention compared to many other surgical procedures, both before and after the surgery, in order to ensure the success of the operation.

Pre-Surgery Process

The pre-surgery process begins when the patient is informed by the doctor about the necessity of the operation or when the patient decides to undergo rhinoplasty for aesthetic reasons. One of the most important aspects of this process is the selection of the surgeon. Since nose aesthetics is a very delicate procedure, it must be performed by experienced surgeons to achieve successful results and prevent unnecessary corrective surgeries. A common concern for patients is the choice of surgical technique. Although there is often a debate between the open and closed methods, the technique to be used may vary for each patient.

Based on the examination performed by the physician, the procedures to be done and the structure of the nose should be taken into account when deciding which method will yield the best results. Both open and closed surgeries have their own advantages and disadvantages, and since not every method is effective or suitable for every surgery, the decision should be made by the surgeon, not the patient. Once the desired changes are determined and the surgery date is set, the patient will be informed about how to prepare for the surgery. If the patient uses any blood thinners, they should stop using them one or two weeks before the surgery, as recommended by the doctor. Smoking and the use of tobacco products must be strictly avoided, as they can negatively affect wound healing. Apart from these precautions, rhinoplasty surgeries do not require extensive special preparation. Patients should simply be present at the designated center on the surgery day, following the recommendations of their doctor.

Post-Surgery Process

After the rhinoplasty surgery, it is crucial to protect the surgical area to ensure that the nose shape and the treatments performed are successful. Therefore, any trauma that could negatively affect the shape of the nose should be avoided. In addition to avoiding trauma, it is essential to refrain from wearing glasses, sleeping on one's side, or applying pressure to the nose area for a period of time. Resting adequately, especially during the first two or three days, and avoiding strenuous activities for a week will help speed up the recovery process. Additionally, if any medications have been prescribed by the doctor, they should be taken regularly. The scheduled follow-up appointments should not be missed, and if dressings are recommended, they should be done regularly or by a healthcare professional.

If you are considering undergoing nose aesthetics surgery or would like more information about the rhinoplasty process, you can consult your doctor and undergo an examination to get their professional opinion on the surgery.