Everything About Nose Surgery: Before, After and Frequently Wondered Points

Nose surgery, by its medical name rhinoplasty, is a surgical procedure performed to correct the shape or function of the nose. Nose surgeries, which can be done for both aesthetic and functional reasons, aim to increase people's quality of life. While aesthetic rhinoplasty is done for the nose to gain a more beautiful, proportionate and natural appearance, functional rhinoplasty is performed to eliminate nasal congestion, septum deviation (the crookedness of the wall inside the nose) and other respiratory problems. These two types can usually be done together.

Nose surgery is usually recommended for individuals aged 18 and over. The reason for this is that the nasal structure has completed its development by the age of 18. Nose surgery is not usually recommended for young individuals whose nasal structure is still developing. However, for medical reasons (for example, difficulty breathing or trauma), nose surgery may be necessary.

In addition, to be able to have nose surgery, the general health condition needs to be good. Nose surgery can be risky for people with serious health problems such as diabetes and heart disease. Besides the person's physical health, it is important that they are also psychologically prepared. In surgeries done for aesthetic concerns, the person's expectations being realistic will provide a psychologically healthier recovery process.

Nose surgery is not a procedure consisting only of the surgery. It is a process in which every stage is important. Here are the main steps of this process:

Before surgery you need to have a detailed consultation with your plastic surgeon. In this consultation, your current nasal structure, your facial contours, any problem you experience inside or outside the nose and your aesthetic expectations are taken into account. The surgeon will determine the nasal shape most suited to your facial structure. In addition, functional problems such as any crookedness or congestion inside the nose are also evaluated. This stage is the most important part of the operation because, besides the nasal shape, the creation of a healthy respiratory structure is also aimed for.

Nose surgery is usually done under general anaesthesia. Under general anaesthesia, the patient is completely asleep and does not feel any pain during the operation. However, in some cases, especially if small aesthetic touches are to be made, local anaesthesia can also be preferred. The choice of anaesthesia will be made in line with your surgeon's recommendation.

The surgery is usually carried out with incisions made on the outer part of the nose or inside the nose. If an aesthetic change is to be made, the surgeon can remove the arch of the nose, shape the nasal tip or reduce the nose. Crookedness inside the nose is corrected with a procedure called septoplasty. Functional rhinoplasty usually focuses on the tissues inside the nose and the opening of the nasal passages is provided.

The interventions made in nose surgery are usually done with open or closed methods. While open rhinoplasty is carried out with a small incision made on the outer part of the nostrils, closed rhinoplasty is done with incisions inside the nose. Both methods give successful results when applied by specialist surgeons.

The recovery process after surgery can vary from person to person. In the first few days swelling and bruising can be seen; this is completely normal. During this process the patient should usually rest for a week and sleep with their head elevated. After surgery the pain can be managed with the painkillers your doctor gives. Within 7-10 days the cast or bandages on the nose are removed.

The full recovery process can take a few weeks, but seeing the new shape of the nose completely can take 6 months to 1 year. When the swelling subsides completely, the nasal shape settles and appears in its final state.

Nose surgery does not only provide an aesthetic change; it also increases personal confidence and offers a healthier lifestyle. Here are the main advantages of nose surgery:

• Aesthetic Improvement: By making your nose more harmonious with your facial contours, you can obtain a younger and more aesthetic appearance.

• Respiratory Improvement: Problems such as nasal congestion, septum deviation and snoring can be eliminated with surgical intervention. In this way you can breathe more comfortably.

• Increased Self-Confidence: The shape of the nose is one of the most eye-catching parts of the face. Liking your nose can increase your general self-confidence and your confidence in yourself.

• Elimination of Sinus Problems: Structural problems inside the nose can provide improvement in people who frequently have sinusitis.

As with every surgical procedure, nose surgery also has some risks. Among these:

• Infection: There is always a risk of infection after surgical procedures. However, this risk can be minimised by following the care instructions the doctor gives.

• Bleeding: There can be bleeding after surgery. This is usually a temporary situation but can rarely lead to complications.

• Allergic Reactions to Anaesthesia: Although rare, allergic reactions to anaesthesia can develop.

• Unexpected Results: There can be unexpected changes in the nasal shape. However, this situation can be minimised with an experienced surgeon.

The recovery process after nose surgery is quite important. Some important points to pay attention to in this process are:

• Rest: Resting the body in the first days speeds up the recovery process. Keeping the head elevated in bed reduces swelling.

• Cold Compress: Applying a cold compress is beneficial to help the swelling subside.

• Physical Activity: Heavy exercise should be avoided in the first 4-6 weeks after surgery. Activities such as swimming and sports can be done with the doctor's approval.

• Protection from the Sun: During this period when your nose is sensitive, it is important to protect yourself from the sun's rays. Using sunscreen and not being directly exposed to the sun contributes to the recovery process.

• Check-ups: Your recovery process needs to be followed regularly. Your doctor will examine you when deemed necessary.

Nose surgery is a procedure that offers important changes both aesthetically and functionally. Positive results can be obtained in terms of both health and appearance. However, when making the surgery decision, making a careful evaluation, choosing an experienced surgeon and paying attention to the recovery process are of great importance. Remember that when the nose is in harmony with your facial contours, it can increase not only your external appearance but also your quality of life.