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Frequently Asked Questions

Closed rhinoplasty FAQ

50+ questions on closed rhinoplasty — surgery process, recovery, results, cost, international-patient process, risk management. If you don't find what you're looking for, ask directly via WhatsApp.

General

What is closed rhinoplasty?

A technique in which all surgical incisions are made inside the nostrils, with no external incision on the columella (skin bridge between the nostrils). Result: a rhinoplasty with no visible external scar.

What is the difference between closed and open?

Open rhinoplasty has a small incision on the columella; the skin is fully lifted. Closed has no such incision; skin is only partially lifted. Closed leaves no external scar, edema resolves faster.

Is closed less successful?

No — with appropriate patient selection, closed achieves results equal to open. Surgeon experience is decisive.

Is closed appropriate for all patients?

No. Complex revisions, major structural reconstruction, extensive grafting require open technique.

Which technique does the surgeon use more often?

Closed in 85-90% of primary cases. Revision and complex cases use open.

Patient Profile & Age

Minimum age for rhinoplasty?

Generally 17 for females, 18 for males. Nose development must be complete. Under 18 requires parental consent.

Upper age limit?

None — if general health is suitable, can be performed at 65-70+. Recovery may be longer due to reduced skin elasticity.

Can it be done during pregnancy?

No. Aesthetic surgery is not performed during pregnancy or breastfeeding. Plan 3-6 months after weaning.

Can it be done during menstruation?

Generally avoided around the late or middle menstrual phase — bleeding risk slightly increases. The surgeon plans individually.

Surgery Process

How long does surgery take?

1.5-3 hours depending on complexity. Septorhinoplasty or turbinate work extends it.

What type of anesthesia?

General anesthesia — in a fully equipped hospital, with a specialist anesthesiologist.

How long do I stay in hospital?

Usually 1 night observation; some cases can be done day-case.

Will I wake up during surgery?

No. Under general anesthesia you are completely asleep. The anesthesiologist manages the process.

Will I feel pain during surgery?

No. No sensation or awareness under anesthesia.

Recovery

When are the splints removed?

On days 5-7 — silicone splints inside and thermoplastic external splint removed at the check-up.

When can I return to work?

Office workers 10-14 days, work-from-home 5-7 days, physical workers 3-4 weeks.

When can I do sports?

Light walking 2 weeks, running 4 weeks, weight training and contact sports 6 weeks.

When can I wear glasses?

Standard glasses 6-8 weeks. Important — glasses press on nasal bones before full healing.

When will I see the final result?

Overall appearance settles in 3-6 months, final lines emerge by 12 months. Thick skin may extend to 18 months.

When can I fly?

Splint removal + 2-3 days = day 9-10 after surgery is generally safe.

When can I have intercourse?

First 2 weeks not advised (blood pressure increase worsens edema). After 2 weeks with care.

How are swelling and bruising managed?

First 48 hours: soft ice on face (not nose), head elevated, plenty of water, low salt, no smoking.

Aesthetic Outcome

Will the result look natural?

Yes — with proper planning. The 'operated' look is undesirable in the modern approach.

Will scars remain?

In closed technique — no external scar remains. All incisions are inside.

How much will my nose shape change?

As much as you want — aggressive vs. minimal. Planned together at consultation. Generally a natural result your family will recognize.

Will the tip feel soft?

First 6-12 months it feels tight and full. Gradually softens — final feel settles in 12-18 months.

How long does tip numbness last?

Marked for the first 2-3 months, largely resolved by 6 months. Full sensation returns by 12 months. Permanent numbness is rare.

Is the result permanent?

Yes — bone and cartilage changes are permanent. Soft tissues change with age, but the result is largely preserved.

Cost & Payment

What is the price?

Turkish Ministry of Health regulations prohibit price advertising in healthcare. Personalized price provided after consultation.

What factors affect price?

Case complexity, additional procedures (septum, turbinate), anesthesia time, hospital category, technologies used (e.g., piezo).

Is there insurance coverage?

Aesthetic rhinoplasty is outside Turkish SGK coverage. Only the functional septoplasty portion may be SGK covered.

How is payment made?

Usually full payment before surgery. Some clinics offer credit card installments or bank loans.

Price difference for international patients?

No — pricing same as local patients. Only travel and accommodation are additional.

International Patients

I'm coming from abroad — how long do I stay in Istanbul?

Minimum 7-10 days. Hospital observation 1-2 days, hotel rest 5-7 days, splint removal day 5-7, then 2-3 days before return.

Are transfer services available?

Yes — VIP airport transfer arranged by clinic coordination.

What languages are spoken?

Turkish, English, German. Other languages can be arranged via translator.

Is a visa needed?

EU passport holders enter Turkey visa-free. US, UK and others typically use online e-visa.

Are hospital + accommodation packaged?

Some package arrangements exist — ask for details at consultation. Hotel recommendations from clinic coordination.

Risks & Complications

Is rhinoplasty risky?

All surgery carries risks (bleeding, infection, anesthesia reactions) — but minimized greatly with experienced team.

Is closed method lower-risk?

Some complications (visible scarring, prolonged edema) are less in closed. General surgical risks are similar.

Will revision be needed?

After primary, 5-15% of cases need revision. Good planning and surgeon selection lowers this rate.

Will my nasal breathing be impaired?

On the contrary — septorhinoplasty often improves breathing. Wrong technique can cause valve issues; surgeon selection matters.

I smoke — effects?

Smoking impairs skin circulation, slows healing, increases infection and necrosis risk. Must quit 4 weeks before + 4 weeks after.

Question not answered?

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