Dr. Esin Özlem Atmış
Rhinoplasty & Nasal Surgery
Nasal surgery begins with understanding your concerns, your anatomy and how you breathe. The goal is not a standardised nose but a considered decision about what may be appropriate for your face.
Nasal surgery · Individual assessment
A nose that belongs to your face. Breathing that matters.
Rhinoplasty is intended to change selected aspects of the nose’s appearance and, when appropriate, its structure. There is no single ideal shape for everyone. Facial proportions, cartilage and bone, skin characteristics, breathing function and personal expectations all deserve attention.
Dr. Esin Özlem Atmış’s approach starts with understanding the concern, examining nasal anatomy and discussing what changes may be realistic and appropriate.
What is rhinoplasty?
Rhinoplasty, often called nose surgery, involves modifying selected bone, cartilage or supporting structures of the nose. Concerns may involve the nasal bridge, tip, width, asymmetry or how the nose relates to other facial features.
The external appearance and internal function of the nose are connected. The septum, nasal valves and supporting structures all contribute to nasal airflow. Obstruction may also involve turbinate enlargement, inflammatory conditions or other causes.
An important distinction: Rhinoplasty and septoplasty are not the same procedure; our ENT surgery overview also introduces septoplasty. In some patients, structural concerns affecting breathing may be assessed alongside changes to appearance, but the cause of symptoms must first be understood.
When might surgery be considered?
- Concerns about the shape or prominence of the nasal bridge
- The position, definition or width of the nasal tip
- Nasal proportions and asymmetry
- Congenital or injury-related structural differences
- Selected breathing concerns requiring a structural assessment
- Problems following a previous nasal operation
Having one of these concerns does not automatically mean that surgery is necessary or advisable.
Open, closed and preservation rhinoplasty
No single surgical technique is universally preferable. The most appropriate approach depends on the anatomy and the changes being considered.
Open rhinoplasty
Uses internal incisions and a small external incision across the columella. It can provide direct access for selected structural changes; a small external scar may remain.
Closed rhinoplasty
Uses incisions inside the nostrils without an external columellar incision. It may be suitable for certain situations but not for every surgical objective.
Preservation rhinoplasty describes approaches intended to retain selected natural nasal structures in appropriate patients. It is not an automatically safer or superior choice for every anatomy.
Bone and cartilage may need to be reshaped, repositioned or supported by grafts. Preserving breathing function is an important consideration alongside appearance.
What happens before deciding on surgery?
A useful consultation looks beyond an image of an ideal nose. It explores what matters to you, how your nose functions, what your anatomy permits and which expectations may not be realistic.
01 · Understand
Your concerns, goals, previous treatments and effect on daily life are discussed.
02 · Examine
Facial balance, nasal support, skin thickness, septum and airflow are assessed.
03 · Decide
Potential benefits, alternatives, limitations and risks are considered together.
04 · Follow up
Recovery, appropriate reviews and long-term nasal function are part of the plan.
Medical conditions, active infections, smoking, medicines affecting bleeding, previous nasal surgery or expectations that cannot realistically be met may affect the decision or timing. In younger patients, nasal and facial development also requires individual consideration.
How is rhinoplasty performed?
Rhinoplasty is commonly performed under general anaesthesia. Depending on the agreed plan, selected bone or cartilage structures may be adjusted, and cartilage grafts or other support techniques may be used.
The nasal tip, bridge, internal supports and airway are considered together. Splints or internal supports may be used after surgery when appropriate. Operating time, discharge arrangements and aftercare depend on the specific procedure and patient.
Risks, recovery and follow-up
Like all surgery, rhinoplasty carries risks. Possible complications include bleeding, infection, swelling, bruising, temporary changes in sensation, scarring, asymmetry, unexpected changes in appearance, persistent or new breathing difficulties and a potential need for revision. Anaesthesia has its own risks.
Swelling, bruising, fullness and temporary nasal obstruction may occur during early recovery. Instructions concerning nasal care, splints, sleeping position and return to activity should follow the treating team’s individual advice.
Early appearance is not the final outcome. Swelling and tissue adaptation take time, particularly around the nasal tip. Follow-up appointments allow both appearance and breathing to be reviewed over time.
No technique can guarantee perfect symmetry, a particular cosmetic result or a complication-free recovery.
Frequently asked questions
Can rhinoplasty improve breathing?
In selected patients, structural problems affecting airflow may be assessed during nasal surgery. However, the cause of obstruction must be established before any improvement can be anticipated.
Is open or closed rhinoplasty better?
Neither is universally better. The choice depends on the anatomy, treatment goals and the extent of structural work required.
When will I see the final result?
The appearance continues to change as swelling settles and tissues adapt. The timeline varies according to the operation and individual healing characteristics.
Is revision rhinoplasty always possible?
A previously operated nose can be assessed, but scar tissue, remaining cartilage and existing structural support may limit the options. A detailed examination is needed.
Does everyone who wants rhinoplasty need surgery?
No. In some cases, a smaller change, postponing surgery or deciding not to operate may be more appropriate after discussing expected benefits and risks.
Start with an informed conversation.
Understanding your options is not a commitment to surgery. Discuss practical consultation arrangements with the practice.