Dear readers, welcome to another new post on Mr.M blog. After 6 years of Mr.M blog existence, I know that people who visit my blog are divided into two groups: hedonists who are fans of more interesting travels and fashion lovers who are looking for interesting fashion inspirations.
Today’s post will be a little different, but I’m sure it will benefit all of you who are thinking about cosmetic surgery. The previous post was a kind of guide through Istanbul and partially explained the principle of medical tourism in Türkiye. Today’s post will be dedicated to our personal experience with plastic and cosmetic surgery in Istanbul.
My mother had an unsuccessful nose intervention more than 15 years ago, she did rhinoplasty with nasal septal deviation surgery – septoplasty in Serbia. My mother was very disappointed with the results and out of fear she decided not to do this type of intervention anymore. The years passed, my mother expressed increasing dissatisfaction and I decided to help her fulfill her dream – to finally breathe and get a better look of her nose.
On the other hand, I was not satisfied with the appearance of my nose either and I had a problem with the deviation of the nasal septum. Honestly, my desire to have a more beautiful nose prevailed and along the way I decided to improve my quality of life, if I allow myself to breathe better.
When was I aware of the moment that I would change myself? The moment I bought plane tickets for my mom and me through the Air Montenegro website, it was only then that I realized that I would finally do something nice and useful for my mom and myself.
Arpanu Medical Travel is a travel agent, certified as a medical tourism assistance agent by the Turkish Ministry of Health and has been an active member of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies since 2011.
Arpanu Medical aims to be your reliable partner during your medical experience in Türkiye. Each patient has their own unique customized program with health services provided by esteemed hospitals and private clinics in Türkiye. The basic task is to combine health with comfort and safety while performing the selected medical program.
Through its close and intensive cooperation with renowned local health care providers, the company enables it to continuously expand the range of services, formulate unique programs and offer cost-effective solutions for patients.
All operations are performed by highly qualified doctors and medical staff in modern, fully sterilized operating rooms with sophisticated state-of-the-art medical equipment.
Arpanu Medical offers a large number of medical services in the field of: Hair transplantation, Aesthetics , Dentistry, Bariatric surgery – obesity, ophthalmic services, in vitro fertilization – IVF, Oncology, as well as regular Health Check-Up.
What does medical tourism in Türkiye look like with the Arpanu Medical and how does the process go from the beginning to the end of the chosen program? All information about the process you can find on this link.
In this post, I will describe our experience with Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic, which belongs to the Arpan Medical travel group of medical institutions. Dr. Serkan Aygin founded the Dr. Serkan Aygin Medical Centre, which brings together highly qualified medical specialists, who provide the best medical services to patients with their experience.
Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic together with hair transplant services offered by Dr. Serkan Aygin also provides health services in the field of esthetics and cosmetic surgery.
The look of the clinic itself is modernist and you just don’t have the feeling that you are in a medical institution, but that you are in a museum of modern art. Dr. Aygin wanted to pass on his love of art and medicine to his patients, where in addition to exceptional service, patients can enjoy the beauty of modern art.
Before the first consultation with the chosen doctor, you get to fill out one type of questionnaire with basic personal information and about your health.
After the consultation with our surgeon, my mother and I realized that we had come to the right place. Mom and I were thrilled by the kindness of our chosen surgeon and Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic staff. The doctor listened to all our wishes and pointed out to us the possibilities, as well as potential solutions to our problems. My mother was offered a secondary rhinoplasty with a complete reconstruction of the nose and a cartilage transplant.
My mother’s operation was generally more difficult because of her condition, while my wishes were quite demanding because I had a specific vision of the look of my nose and face. The doctor was extremely patient, cheerful and smiling at the same time with a great deal of optimism, which gave my mother and me confidence that everything would be just perfect.
The next step was to schedule an intervention and wait for it! Excitement that is sometimes difficult to understand, but it is human nature to hope and strive for the best.
OPERATION DAY
As with any cosmetic surgery, a certain type of preparation is required, you receive all the necessary instructions from the chosen surgeon during the first consultation, so you know exactly what you can and cannot do before the intervention.
Before the operation, blood tests and diagnostics (heart and lungs) are performed in preparation for the intervention itself and general anesthesia. Our tests were done on the day of the intervention. My operation was scheduled for 9 am, my mother’s between 1 and 2 p.m.
It is important to note that the local transport between the hotel and the clinic is regulated so that you do not have to worry about coming to the clinic for the first consultation, going to the operation and examinations that follow after the operation.
After the preparations, our surgeon came to visit us before the operation to go through the list of our wishes once again and to confirm all the requests. Because of the great excitement, I can only remember the quick change into hospital pajamas and the smiling nurses who greeted me during my “journey” through the hallways to the operating room.
Most of people are afraid of general anesthesia because each organism reacts differently to surgery and general anesthesia. Since I had various types of surgery (perforated appendix surgery, jaw surgery, etc.), I had experiences with general anesthesia several times, sometimes I was conscious, sometimes I only remember the details of waking up from anesthesia through the dream.
This time I really had a wonderful experience because from the first moment of waking up from anesthesia I was cheerful and in the mood for conversation with people. Anyone who remembers my Instagram stories, you know that I filmed the moments after waking up with an ice mask on my face.
The operation went great, I got a meal after a couple of hours where I had an appetite and I ate well and talked to the clinic staff. After a few hours, the anesthesia subsides and mild pain begins, which can be regulated with painkillers and sedatives, but if you believe me, I didn’t take it. My pain was mild and I felt more like a kind of discomfort due to the swelling present, nothing more…
My mom on the other hand had a slightly harder night due to more demanding surgery, but after receiving two doses of painkillers and tranquilizers the night passed relatively calmly and we were both curious to see what we looked like, the difference was that I had a phone so I could look at “the mirror” while my mom was quite impatient because she had nothing on hand to allow her to look herself.
My mother had a more difficult recovery because her operation was demanding, since a secondary rhinoplasty was performed with a complete reconstruction of the nose and a graft transplant in the form of a graft. 7 cartilage grafts were transplanted.
Since I had surgery in the morning, the nurses came to me in the evening to let me know that it was time for a little walk. I admit, I was scared because I felt mild pain and discomfort due to the swollen face, but with the advice of the nurses, little Marko left the Instagram and the recordings and went for a walk around the corridors of the clinic.
I am one of those patients who are extremely obedient and have a few questions and a thousand sub-questions. I took seriously the task of not looking at the ground, but keeping my head straight all the time, and that first walk went in the best possible way.
My mom later went for a walk, in the early morning hours, she had a feeling of nausea, but the medication helped her get through it all!
RECOVERY TIME
How is the recovery period after rhinoplasty? Recovery is an individual matter and depends on the severity of the procedure, I can only share my experience with you. We spent one night in the hospital and headed back to the hotel. We wore a nose mask for 7 days. My mom had extra patches for her nose reconstruction which I helped her to take off after 7 days.
While wearing the mask on your nose, until you take it off, you receive instructions and certain medications that help you reduce the pain, swelling, antibiotics and other drugs.
Swelling and bruising, how to deal with these “visitors”? Swelling and bruising are the most common guests after nose surgery that you will hang out with for a while. There are various tips and tricks that can help alleviate swelling and bruising with the help of medications and ice packs. In time, everything comes into its place, you just need to be patient. Time heals everything…
Nose surgery is a very delicate surgical intervention that has great health and aesthetic significance. Deviation of the nasal septum can be a major health problem and difficulty breathing can reduce quality of life. On the other hand, the aesthetic aspect of rhinoplasty is important because it restores self-confidence and a person feels better when he sees a better version of himself in the mirror.
When you decide on this type of intervention, it is very important to find the right doctor who will understand your wishes and needs.
I would like to take this opportunity to thank Arpanu Medical Group and Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic for this exceptional experience and it was a great pleasure to visit Istanbul and change myself. Also, special thanks to Air Montenegro, which made my adventure unforgettable, and I hope to pack my bags again for some new adventures and memories that I will remember!
Dear readers, we have come to the end of this special post from Türkiye, which would not have been possible without the selfless help of Air Montenegro and Arpanu Medical Group, partners who made it possible for me to share my impressions of medical tourism in Türkiye.
Time always flies when a person has a good time! A man is rich at heart if he has managed to explore the world and I am glad to always be able to find suitable partners for my projects that allow me to discover some new and unusual destinations in a completely different way during this global health crisis COVID-19.
I am honored to have the opportunity to work with companies that are at the very top in the each industry and I would like to thank them for this amazing adventure and for allowing me to experience the charms of Istanbul in a completely different way.
How did you like this story of mine today? Have you ever considered changing something about yourself and doing something special for yourself? Cosmetic surgery is not a taboo topic and people should talk a little more about this type of intervention and you should be careful and watch who you trust and take care of your body.
If you decide to do something for yourself and help yourself, feel free to contact Arpanu Medical team which will help you to fulfill your wishes and feel a unique experience and see why Turkish doctors are the best in Europe and in the world as well!
If you have a question, comment, suggestion or message for me you can write to me below in the comments. Of course, you can always contact me via email or social networks and you can find it on the CONTACT page. See you in the same place in a couple of days, with a new story!
With Love from Belgrade,
Mr.M
This post is sponsored by national airline carrier Air Montenegro and Arpanu Medical Group which represents my personal and honest review of their services.
Dear Marko, I am glad that you shared with all of us your experience with cosmetic surgery and rhinoplasty. You look fantastic and I hope you will be happier and more fulfilled now. You always radiate with some incredible positive energy. I should also have a nose job, but I honestly don’t have the courage to do that. When I have a toothache, I put it off for as long as I can… Then you can imagine how big coward I am!
Hello dear Michael, thank you so much for taking the time to read my post and for leaving such a kind and thoughtful comment. Your words about my positive energy truly mean a lot to me. I completely understand your fear, believe me, I was nervous too, especially before the general anaesthesia, but the entire team at the clinic made me feel so safe and comfortable that the anxiety simply melted away. Rhinoplasty is actually far less painful than a toothache in many ways, as the discomfort after surgery is more of a dull pressure than sharp pain, so please do not let fear hold you back from something that could truly improve your quality of life. If you ever decide to take that step, I am here to answer any questions you might have!
Warm regards,
Marko
It’s wonderful of you to help your mother with her nose and improve her health after so many years! Congratulations! It’s an indication that your mom raised a wonderful man! Greetings to you and your family! I can’t wait to see the results of my mom’s surgery on the new pictures as I believe she will be taking pictures with you again often! Cheers from London!
Hi dear Angelica, thank you so much for your beautiful words and for taking the time to read my post, it truly warms my heart! Helping my mother was one of the most meaningful decisions I have ever made, and knowing that she can finally breathe properly and feel confident again makes it all worthwhile. She is indeed appearing more often in photos now and absolutely loves her new look, so you will definitely be seeing more of her on the blog. Your kind greetings from London are deeply appreciated and I send my warmest wishes to you and your family as well!
With love,
Marko
Dear Marko, you look fabulous even a few hours after the operation! All praise for the surgeon, he really did a great job! I would like to go to Turkey to do something with my face since I am 52, I need EVERYTHING! Being an architect, appearance always helps!
Dear Semuel, thank you so much for your kind words and for dedicating your time to read my experience. I truly appreciate it! You are absolutely right, the surgeon did an exceptional job and I could not be more grateful for his skill and artistry. Istanbul has become one of the leading destinations for medical tourism in the world, and Turkey offers a remarkable combination of highly qualified surgeons, modern facilities, and significantly more affordable prices compared to Western Europe, so it could be an excellent option for you. As an architect, I completely understand the importance of presentation and aesthetics, so I encourage you to explore this path, feel free to reach out to me anytime for more details!
Best wishes,
Marko
I had nose surgery 8 years ago in Amsterdam at a university clinic and they ruined my nose. The tip of my nose pulls to one side and I have difficulty breathing… Is it possible to reconstruct such a case? I went to several plastic surgeons and none of them was willing to accept me and fix my nose. Who can I contact? Thank you in advance! Greetings from Rotterdam
Hi Adriaan, thank you for sharing your story and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your openness. I am very sorry to hear about your experience with your nose surgery in Amsterdam and I can only imagine how frustrating it must be to deal with both the aesthetic result and breathing difficulties for so many years. The good news is that secondary rhinoplasty with complete reconstruction is absolutely possible, as my mother’s case proves, she had a similar situation after an unsuccessful first surgery and her surgeon in Istanbul performed a full reconstruction with cartilage grafts that transformed her nose entirely. I would highly recommend reaching out directly to the Arpanu Medical team through their website, as they can evaluate your case and connect you with the right specialist who has extensive experience with complex revision cases. Please do not give up hope, the right surgeon can make all the difference!
Kind regards,
Marko
Ich wollte mich schon immer einer Nasenoperation unterziehen lassen und habe gerade im Internet nach weiteren Informationen gesucht und bin auf Ihren Beitrag gestoßen. Was kostet eine Nasenoperation in Istanbul? Können Sie mir einen ungefähren Preis nennen? Mit freundlichen Grüßen aus Dresden!
Hallo lieber Klaus, vielen herzlichen Dank, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen und einen Kommentar zu hinterlassen, das schätze ich sehr! Die Kosten für eine Nasenoperation in Istanbul variieren je nach Komplexität des Eingriffs, Erfahrung des Chirurgen und der gewählten Klinik, aber im Durchschnitt liegt der Preis für eine primäre Rhinoplastik in Istanbul zwischen etwa 2.500 und 5.000 US-Dollar, was deutlich günstiger ist als in Deutschland, wo die Kosten oft zwischen 5.000 und 10.000 Euro betragen. Viele Kliniken bieten zudem All-inclusive-Pakete an, die Unterkunft, Transfers und Nachsorge beinhalten, was die gesamte Erfahrung sehr komfortabel gestaltet. Ich würde Ihnen empfehlen, sich direkt an das Team von Arpanu Medical über deren Website zu wenden, damit sie Ihnen ein individuelles Angebot basierend auf Ihren spezifischen Bedürfnissen erstellen können. Herzliche Grüße nach Dresden!
Mit freundlichen Grüßen,
Marko
Hello Marko, thank you so much for sharing something this personal. It takes real courage to talk openly about cosmetic surgery and I respect that enormously. The before and after photos are impressive, your nose looks very natural which is exactly what a good rhinoplasty should achieve. I have been considering a nose job for years but have always been too nervous about the recovery. Your description of the pain being more of a discomfort than actual pain has eased my concerns quite a bit. Can I ask how long it took before you felt comfortable going out in public without any visible signs of surgery?
Hello Vivienne, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read such a personal post, it really means a lot to me! I am glad that my description of the recovery helped ease some of your concerns, because it is truly important to have realistic expectations going into rhinoplasty. In my experience, by the end of the second week after surgery, most of the visible bruising had faded significantly and by week three to four I felt comfortable going out in public without anyone noticing obvious signs of surgery. Of course, some subtle swelling remained for several months, but it was only noticeable to me and not to others around me. I encourage you to take the step when you feel ready, the results are truly worth the patience during recovery!
Warmly,
Marko
Hallo Marko, vielen Dank für diesen ehrlichen und mutigen Beitrag. Es ist so wichtig, dass Menschen offen über kosmetische Eingriffe sprechen, damit andere sich nicht allein fühlen mit ihren Wünschen. Ich hatte vor fünf Jahren eine Nasenoperation in Deutschland und war leider nicht zufrieden mit dem Ergebnis, die Nasenspitze ist asymmetrisch geworden. Deine Geschichte über die sekundäre Rhinoplastik deiner Mutter gibt mir Hoffnung, dass eine Korrektur möglich ist. Wie lange nach der ersten Operation hat deine Mutter gewartet, bevor sie sich für die Revisionsoperation entschieden hat?
Hallo liebe Monika, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren offenen und ehrlichen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen, das bedeutet mir sehr viel! Es tut mir sehr leid zu hören, dass Sie mit dem Ergebnis Ihrer Nasenoperation in Deutschland nicht zufrieden waren, aber bitte verlieren Sie nicht die Hoffnung. Die Geschichte meiner Mutter zeigt, dass eine erfolgreiche Korrektur auch nach Jahren noch möglich ist sie hat über fünfzehn Jahre mit dem unbefriedigenden Ergebnis gelebt, bevor wir nach Istanbul gereist sind. Generell empfehlen Chirurgen, mindestens zwölf Monate nach der ersten Rhinoplastik zu warten, bevor man eine Revisionsoperation in Betracht zieht, damit das Gewebe vollständig verheilt ist und die endgültige Form der Nase sichtbar wird. In Ihrem Fall, da bereits fünf Jahre vergangen sind, wäre der Zeitpunkt für eine Revision definitiv günstig ich würde Ihnen raten, sich an das Team von Arpanu Medical zu wenden, um eine persönliche Beratung zu erhalten!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Marko, what a brave and helpful post. I have been researching rhinoplasty options for the past year and Turkey keeps coming up as a destination for medical tourism. Your experience with Arpanu Medical sounds very professional and well-organised, especially the fact that local transport between the hotel and clinic was completely taken care of. The detail about your mother needing seven cartilage grafts during her secondary rhinoplasty shows how complex revision surgery can be. I had my first rhinoplasty done locally and the breathing has improved but the aesthetic result is not what I hoped for. How soon after a primary rhinoplasty would you recommend waiting before considering a revision?
Dear Pamela, thank you so much for reading my post so thoroughly and for sharing your own experience, I truly appreciate you taking the time. You are absolutely right that my mother’s case illustrates how complex revision surgery can be and the seven cartilage grafts she received during her secondary rhinoplasty demonstrate the level of skill and precision required for such procedures. Most surgeons recommend waiting at least twelve months after a primary rhinoplasty before considering revision surgery, as the nose continues to heal and change shape for up to a full year and operating too soon could compromise the final result. Since your breathing has improved but the aesthetic result is not what you hoped for a revision rhinoplasty could be a wonderful option for you, and the organized approach of Arpanu Medical really does take so much stress out of travelling abroad for surgery. Please feel free to reach out if you need any further guidance!
Best regards,
Marko
Bonjour Marko, merci pour ce témoignage si personnel et courageux. J’envisage une rhinoplastie depuis plusieurs années mais je n’ai jamais osé franchir le pas. Ta description de l’expérience, depuis la consultation jusqu’au réveil après l’anesthésie générale, m’a beaucoup rassuré. Le fait que tu aies été de bonne humeur et bavard dès le réveil montre que l’anesthésie a été bien gérée. Je souffre d’une déviation de la cloison nasale qui affecte ma respiration et j’aimerais combiner la correction fonctionnelle avec une amélioration esthétique. Est-ce que ton chirurgien a pu corriger ta déviation septale en même temps que la rhinoplastie esthétique?
Hello Fabrice, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read about my personal experience, I truly appreciate it! I completely understand your situation, as I was in a very similar position myself, dealing with both a deviated septum that affected my breathing and a desire for aesthetic improvement. The great news is that yes, my surgeon was able to correct the septal deviation at the same time as performing the cosmetic rhinoplasty and this combined approach is actually very common and preferred by many surgeons because it allows them to address both the functional and aesthetic aspects in a single procedure. Combining septoplasty with rhinoplasty is an excellent choice because it means only one anaesthesia session, one recovery period, and results that improve both your breathing and the appearance of your nose. I encourage you to take the next step and schedule a consultation, you will not regret it!
With warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, really appreciate you sharing this experience. I had a rhinoplasty about eight years ago and while the breathing improved dramatically, I am not entirely happy with the bridge of my nose. Reading about your mother’s secondary rhinoplasty with complete reconstruction and cartilage transplant is very encouraging because it shows that even complex revisions are possible. The fact that seven cartilage grafts were transplanted during her procedure demonstrates serious surgical skill. My main concern with revision surgery is that it might make things worse rather than better. Did your surgeon discuss the risks of secondary rhinoplasty compared to a primary procedure?
Hi dear Graeme, thank you so much for reading my post and for sharing your own rhinoplasty experience, it means a great deal to me. I completely understand your concern about revision surgery potentially making things worse, and it is a very valid worry that many people share. During our consultation, the surgeon did discuss the risks of secondary rhinoplasty quite thoroughly, he explained that revision surgery is indeed more complex than a primary procedure due to scar tissue, altered anatomy, and sometimes limited cartilage availability, but he also reassured us that with proper technique and experience, excellent results are absolutely achievable. The key is finding a surgeon who specialises in revision rhinoplasty and has extensive experience with complex cases, as the skill level required is significantly higher than for primary surgery. My mother’s successful outcome with seven cartilage grafts is proof that even the most challenging cases can have beautiful results when you are in the right hands!
Kind regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, danke für diesen offenen Beitrag. Es ist ermutigend zu sehen, dass du und deine Mutter diese Reise gemeinsam unternommen habt. Die Tatsache, dass deine Mutter über fünfzehn Jahre mit dem Ergebnis ihrer ersten Nasenoperation unzufrieden war, bevor sie sich für eine Revision entschied, zeigt, wie emotional belastend ein schlechtes Ergebnis sein kann. Ich überlege selbst, eine Nasenkorrektur durchführen zu lassen, habe aber Angst vor der Narkose. Du erwähnst, dass du bereits mehrere Vollnarkosen hattest. Hast du irgendwelche Tipps, wie man mit der Angst vor der Narkose umgehen kann?
Liebe Renata, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren offenen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen! Ich kann Ihre Angst vor der Narkose sehr gut nachvollziehen, denn es ist eine der häufigsten Sorgen, die Menschen vor einer Operation haben. Mein wichtigster Tipp ist, offen mit Ihrem Anästhesisten darüber zu sprechen, bei meiner Operation in Istanbul war das Anästhesie-Team unglaublich professionell und hat sich die Zeit genommen, mir alles genau zu erklären, was mir sehr viel Sicherheit gegeben hat. Außerdem hat es mir geholfen, mich auf das positive Ergebnis zu konzentrieren und darauf zu vertrauen, dass ich in den Händen erfahrener Fachleute bin die moderne Anästhesie ist heute extrem sicher und wird individuell an jeden Patienten angepasst. Das Gespräch mit dem Arzt vor der Operation und das Vertrauen in sein Team waren für mich der Schlüssel, um die Angst zu überwinden!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Hello Marko, thank you for being so open about your rhinoplasty journey. What struck me most was your honesty about wanting a more beautiful nose being the primary motivation, with the septum deviation correction as an additional benefit. So many people feel they need to justify cosmetic surgery with medical reasons and I think it is refreshing that you simply said you wanted to look better. The five-week frontal view photo looks absolutely fantastic and very natural. How long did it take for the swelling to completely go down and for the final shape of your nose to become visible?
Dear Bridget, thank you so much for your lovely comment and for taking the time to read my rhinoplasty journey. I truly appreciate your kind words! I am so glad that my honesty about wanting a more beautiful nose resonated with you, because I believe people should not have to justify their desire for self-improvement with medical reasons alone. As for the swelling timeline, the most significant swelling subsided within the first four to six weeks, which is why the five-week photos already look quite good, but the final shape of my nose did not fully reveal itself until approximately six to twelve months after surgery. The nasal tip is typically the last area to settle and subtle refinements continued for almost a year, so patience is truly essential in this journey. The results are absolutely worth the wait!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hola Marko, gracias por compartir esta experiencia tan personal. Llevo años pensando en hacerme una rinoplastia porque tengo una desviación del tabique nasal que me dificulta la respiración y además no estoy contento con el aspecto de mi nariz. Tu historia me ha dado mucho ánimo, especialmente cuando describes que el dolor después de la operación fue más bien una incomodidad que un dolor real. Lo que más me ha impresionado es la historia de tu madre y los siete injertos de cartílago que necesitó para su rinoplastia secundaria. ¿Puedes decirme aproximadamente cuánto tiempo duró tu operación y la de tu madre?
Hi Santiago, thank you so much for reading my post and for sharing your own situation, I truly appreciate you taking the time to write such a thoughtful comment! I completely relate to your experience of having both a deviated septum and aesthetic concerns, as I was in the exact same position. Regarding the duration of the surgeries, a standard rhinoplasty combined with septoplasty typically takes between two to three hours, which was approximately the case for my procedure, while my mother’s secondary rhinoplasty with complete reconstruction and seven cartilage grafts was significantly longer due to the complexity of the revision work. The fact that my surgery was scheduled for 9 AM and my mother’s between 1 and 2 PM gives you an idea of the timeline involved. I encourage you to take the step, combining the functional correction with the aesthetic improvement in a single procedure is truly the best approach!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, this post is so important. I have been unhappy with my nose for as long as I can remember and reading your experience has given me the push I needed to seriously consider rhinoplasty. The fact that the clinic looked more like a modern art museum than a medical facility is actually very reassuring because it shows attention to the patient experience beyond just the surgery itself. Your before and after photos show a remarkably natural result which is exactly what I would want. Did the surgeon use computer imaging to show you what your nose would look like before the surgery, or did you simply discuss your wishes verbally?
Dear Constance, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my post, it means the world to me! You make an excellent observation about the clinic’s design Dr. Serkan Aygin’s passion for modern art truly creates an atmosphere that calms patients and makes the experience feel less clinical, which I believe is a reflection of the overall patient-centred philosophy of the clinic. Regarding your question about computer imaging, during the consultation my surgeon and I discussed my wishes primarily through conversation and reference photos and he used his extensive experience to guide the discussion about what would look most natural and harmonious with my facial features. Many modern clinics today do offer 3D computer imaging and digital simulations to help patients visualize potential outcomes before surgery, so I would recommend asking about this during your initial consultation. The most important thing is finding a surgeon who truly listens to your wishes and takes the time to understand your vision!
Best wishes,
Marko
Ciao Marko, grazie mille per aver condiviso questa esperienza così personale. La tua onestà è davvero ammirevole. Ho avuto una rinoplastica tre anni fa in Italia ma purtroppo il risultato non mi soddisfa completamente, il dorso del naso ha ancora una leggera gobba. La storia di tua madre mi dà speranza perché dimostra che anche i casi più complessi possono essere risolti con il chirurgo giusto. Sette innesti di cartilagine per una ricostruzione completa è un intervento molto impegnativo. Quanto tempo è durato il recupero completo di tua madre prima che potesse tornare alle attività normali?
Hello Alessandro, thank you so much for sharing your personal experience and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your openness! I am sorry to hear that you are not completely satisfied with the result of your rhinoplasty in Italy, but the good news is that a residual dorsal hump can often be corrected through revision surgery with excellent results. Regarding my mother’s recovery, given the complexity of her secondary rhinoplasty with seven cartilage grafts and complete reconstruction, her full recovery took considerably longer than mine, she was able to return to light daily activities within about three to four weeks, but it took approximately two to three months before she felt completely comfortable resuming all normal activities without any restrictions. Every patient’s recovery is individual, and more complex procedures naturally require more patience and time, but the final results made every moment of patience absolutely worthwhile!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, great post. I had a septoplasty done years ago to fix my deviated septum but the cosmetic aspect was never addressed. Now I am thinking about getting a rhinoplasty purely for aesthetic reasons. Your experience in Istanbul with Arpanu Medical is very helpful because it shows the entire process from start to finish. The fact that blood tests and diagnostics for heart and lungs were done on the day of the intervention shows thorough medical preparation. One thing I want to ask is whether you had any breathing difficulties during the first week while wearing the nose mask, because that is something that worries me about the recovery period.
Hi Norman, thank you so much for reading my post so carefully and for sharing your own experience with septoplasty, I truly appreciate it! The fact that you had a septoplasty and are now considering rhinoplasty for aesthetic reasons is actually a very common path, and many surgeons are experienced in working with patients who have had previous nasal procedures. Regarding breathing during the first week with the nose mask, I will be honest, breathing through the nose was quite limited due to the internal swelling and the splint, so I primarily breathed through my mouth during that period. This is completely normal and expected after rhinoplasty, and while it can feel uncomfortable, especially during sleep, the congestion gradually improves as the swelling subsides and by the end of the second week most patients notice a significant improvement in nasal breathing. It is a temporary inconvenience that leads to a wonderful long-term result!
Kind regards,
Marko
Querido Marko, qué valentía la tuya al compartir esta experiencia con todos nosotros. Me ha emocionado especialmente la parte donde describes cómo decidiste ayudar a tu madre a cumplir su sueño de tener una nariz mejor después de más de quince años de insatisfacción. Eso habla mucho de tu carácter como persona. Yo estoy considerando una rinoplastia porque tengo problemas respiratorios y nunca me ha gustado el perfil de mi nariz. El hecho de que la clínica del Dr. Serkan Aygin parezca un museo de arte moderno me parece un detalle muy agradable. ¿Cómo fue la comunicación con el equipo médico, hablaban inglés fluido o necesitaste traducción?
Dear Cristina, thank you so much for your beautiful and heartfelt comment and for taking the time to read my post, your words truly touched me! Helping my mother after so many years of dissatisfaction was one of the most rewarding decisions of my life, and I am grateful that our story can inspire others in similar situations. Regarding communication with the medical team, the staff at Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic spoke fluent English, which made the entire process very smooth and comfortable for us from the initial consultation through to post-operative care, we never experienced any language barriers. Additionally, Arpanu Medical provides coordinators who can assist with translation if needed, ensuring that every patient feels completely understood and supported throughout their medical journey. The attention to detail in communication is truly one of the strengths of medical tourism in Istanbul!
With warm regards,
Marko
Marko, thank you for this incredibly helpful post. I have been contemplating rhinoplasty for years and your detailed account of the entire process has answered so many of my questions. I particularly appreciated your description of recovery being an individual matter. The photos taken at different stages, three hours after surgery, four days after, seven days after mask removal, and five and six weeks post-op, give a very realistic picture of what to expect. I am a bit worried about the bruising around the eyes that typically follows rhinoplasty. How severe was the bruising in your case and how long did it take to fade completely?
Hello dear Victoria, thank you so much for your detailed comment and for taking the time to read through my entire post, I truly appreciate your kind words! I am glad that the photos from different recovery stages were helpful, as I deliberately documented various points in the healing process to give readers a realistic picture of what to expect. Regarding bruising, I experienced moderate bruising around both eyes that was most noticeable during the first three to four days after surgery, the bruising gradually changed from purple to yellow-green and had faded almost completely by the end of the second week. Using cold compresses around the eyes, keeping my head elevated while sleeping, and following all the post-operative instructions helped manage the bruising effectively. By the third week, there were virtually no visible signs of bruising remaining, and makeup can also be used to cover any lingering discolouration if needed!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, ich bewundere deinen Mut, so offen über deine Nasenkorrektur zu sprechen. Ich trage mich selbst seit Jahren mit dem Gedanken an eine Rhinoplastik, konnte mich aber nie entscheiden. Dein Beitrag hat mir viel Mut gemacht. Was mich besonders interessiert, ist die Tatsache, dass du direkt nach dem Aufwachen aus der Narkose fröhlich warst und deine Instagram-Stories gedreht hast. Das zeigt, dass die Anästhesie sehr professionell durchgeführt wurde. Meine größte Sorge ist, dass die Nase nach der Operation nicht so aussieht, wie ich es mir vorstelle. Wie genau konnte der Chirurg deine spezifischen Wünsche umsetzen?
Lieber Werner, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren freundlichen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen. Ihre Worte bedeuten mir sehr viel! Es freut mich sehr, dass mein Erfahrungsbericht Ihnen Mut gemacht hat, und ja, die Tatsache, dass ich direkt nach dem Aufwachen aus der Narkose fröhlich war, zeigt wirklich die Professionalität des Anästhesie-Teams in Istanbul. Was Ihre Frage zur Umsetzung meiner spezifischen Wünsche betrifft, der Chirurg hat während der Konsultation sehr aufmerksam zugehört, alle meine Vorstellungen besprochen und mir ehrlich erklärt, was realistisch umsetzbar ist und was möglicherweise angepasst werden müsste, um ein natürliches und harmonisches Ergebnis zu erzielen. Das Endergebnis hat meine Erwartungen sogar übertroffen, weil der Chirurg nicht nur meine Wünsche berücksichtigt hat, sondern auch sein eigenes ästhetisches Gespür eingebracht hat, um ein Ergebnis zu schaffen, das perfekt zu meinen Gesichtsproportionen passt. Der Schlüssel liegt darin, einen Chirurgen zu finden, der sowohl zuhört als auch die Erfahrung besitzt, Ihre Vision in die Realität umzusetzen!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Hello Marko, I found your post while researching rhinoplasty options and I am so glad I did. What impressed me most is that you described having a specific vision of how you wanted your nose and face to look, and the surgeon was patient enough to listen to all your requests. That kind of doctor-patient communication is exactly what I am looking for. I had a consultation with a surgeon in London and felt rushed, like my wishes were not fully heard. Your results look wonderful and very natural. My question is about sleeping after the surgery. Did you have to sleep on your back with your head elevated and for how long?
Dear Philippa, thank you so much for reading my post and for sharing your own consultation experience, I truly appreciate your thoughtful comment! I am sorry to hear that you felt rushed during your consultation in London, because the doctor-patient communication is absolutely crucial when it comes to something as personal as rhinoplasty, and you deserve a surgeon who takes the time to fully understand your vision. Regarding sleeping after surgery, yes, I was advised to sleep on my back with my head elevated on two to three pillows for at least the first two to three weeks after the operation, this position helps reduce swelling and prevents accidental pressure on the nose during sleep. It can take some getting used to, especially if you are a side sleeper, but the elevated position truly makes a noticeable difference in how quickly the swelling goes down. After about three to four weeks, I gradually transitioned back to my normal sleeping position, but continued to be careful about not putting any pressure on my nose!
Best wishes,
Marko
Ciao Marko, articolo molto coraggioso e utile. Ho una deviazione del setto nasale che mi causa problemi respiratori da anni e sto pensando seriamente di fare una rinoplastica combinata con la settoplastica. La tua esperienza positiva con la clinica del Dr. Serkan Aygin mi ha dato molta fiducia nel turismo medico in Turchia. Il fatto che ti abbiano fatto gli esami del sangue e la diagnostica cardiaca e polmonare il giorno stesso dell’intervento dimostra un approccio molto professionale alla sicurezza del paziente. Posso chiederti se hai dovuto seguire una dieta particolare nei giorni precedenti l’operazione?
Hello dear Stefano, thank you so much for your detailed comment and for taking the time to read about my experience, I truly appreciate it! Combining rhinoplasty with septoplasty is an excellent decision that I can wholeheartedly recommend, as it allows you to address both the functional breathing issues and the aesthetic concerns in a single procedure with one recovery period. The thorough pre-operative diagnostics including blood tests, heart, and lung examinations are indeed a standard part of the process at Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic, and it gave me tremendous confidence knowing that every aspect of my health was checked before going under anaesthesia. Regarding dietary preparation, I was instructed to avoid blood-thinning medications and supplements such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and vitamin E for about two weeks before the surgery, and to fast from food and water for at least eight hours before the procedure due to the general anaesthesia. These are standard pre-operative guidelines that your surgeon will explain in detail during your consultation!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, thanks for sharing this personal journey. It must have been quite an experience going through rhinoplasty alongside your mother on the same day. The fact that your surgery was at 9am and your mother’s between 1 and 2pm means the surgeon had a very demanding day. Your mother’s case with the secondary rhinoplasty requiring complete reconstruction and seven cartilage grafts sounds extremely complex. I had a rhinoplasty done about ten years ago and while the aesthetic result was fine, my septum deviated again over time. Is this something your surgeon discussed as a possibility, and were there any precautions mentioned to prevent it?
Hello dear Gerald, thank you for sharing your experience and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your thoughtful comment! You are right that it was quite a demanding day for the surgeon, but the team at the clinic was incredibly well-organized and professional throughout both procedures. Regarding your concern about the septum deviating again over time, this is indeed something our surgeon discussed with us while it is relatively uncommon, re-deviation can occur in some cases, particularly if the cartilage has memory or if the nose experiences trauma after surgery. The precautions mentioned included avoiding any impact to the nose, following all post-operative instructions carefully, and attending regular follow-up appointments to monitor the healing process. If your septum has deviated again after ten years, a revision septoplasty combined with a touch-up rhinoplasty could be a viable option, and I would encourage you to consult with an experienced surgeon who specialises in revision cases!
Kind regards,
Marko
Cher Marko, merci pour ce partage si personnel et si utile. J’admire beaucoup le fait que tu aies accompagné ta mère dans cette aventure médicale. La rinoplastie secondaire avec reconstruction complète et greffe de cartilage est une intervention très complexe et il faut un chirurgien vraiment expérimenté pour la réaliser. Ma sœur a eu une rhinoplastie il y a dix ans et le résultat n’est pas satisfaisant, la pointe du nez est tombée avec le temps. Est-ce que ce genre de problème peut être corrigé avec une rhinoplastie de révision et d’où proviennent les greffons de cartilage, du nez lui-même, de l’oreille ou des côtes?
Dear Marie, thank you so much for your heartfelt comment and for taking the time to read my post, your words truly mean a lot to me! I am sorry to hear about your sister’s rhinoplasty experience where the nasal tip has dropped over time, this is unfortunately a known complication that can occur when the tip support structures weaken or when insufficient structural reinforcement was provided during the initial surgery. The good news is that this type of problem can absolutely be corrected with a revision rhinoplasty, and as for the cartilage grafts, they can be harvested from three main sources, the nasal septum, the ear, or the rib, with the choice depending on how much cartilage is needed for the reconstruction. In cases of complex revision rhinoplasty like my mother’s, where large amounts of grafting material are required, rib cartilage is often the preferred choice because it provides the most abundant supply and strong structural support. I would encourage your sister to consult with an experienced revision rhinoplasty surgeon who can assess her specific situation!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, what a thoughtful and honest post. I have been thinking about rhinoplasty for a long time and reading your experience has really helped me understand what to expect. Your comment about being an extremely obedient patient with a thousand sub-questions made me smile because that is exactly how I would be. I appreciate that you took seriously the instruction to keep your head straight and not look at the ground during your first walk after surgery. These practical details are exactly what people need to hear. My main worry is about the general anaesthesia. You mentioned having several previous surgeries. Was the anaesthesia for the rhinoplasty any different from your previous experiences?
Dear Dorothy, thank you so much for your warm and relatable comment, it made me smile knowing that there are fellow “thousand sub-question” patients out there! I am glad you appreciated the practical recovery details, because I truly believe that knowing exactly what to expect can make the entire experience so much less daunting. Regarding the anaesthesia for rhinoplasty compared to my previous surgical experiences, I found it to be one of the most pleasant anaesthesia experiences I have had, the wake-up was smooth, I felt cheerful almost immediately, and there was no significant nausea or disorientation, which I attribute to the exceptional skill of the anaesthesiology team at the clinic. Every general anaesthesia experience can differ depending on the duration of surgery, the medications used, and your individual response, but modern anaesthetic techniques have advanced tremendously and are extremely safe. I would encourage you not to let the fear of anaesthesia hold you back from achieving the result you desire!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hola Marko, muchas gracias por este artículo tan honesto y valiente. Soy un hombre que siempre ha querido mejorar el aspecto de su nariz pero en mi entorno social existe todavía un estigma sobre los hombres que se someten a cirugía estética. Tu artículo demuestra que no tiene nada de malo querer verse y sentirse mejor. Las fotos del antes y después son muy convincentes, el resultado se ve completamente natural. Tengo una pregunta práctica: ¿cuántos días en total pasaste en Estambul para todo el proceso, desde la primera consulta hasta que te dieron el alta para volver a casa?
Hello dear Ricardo, thank you so much for your honest and thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! You raise an important point about the stigma surrounding men and cosmetic surgery, and I completely agree that there is absolutely nothing wrong with wanting to look and feel better, it is a personal decision that should be respected regardless of gender. Regarding the total time spent in Istanbul, the entire process from the first consultation to being cleared to return home took approximately seven to ten days, this included the initial consultation, the surgery day, the recovery period at the hotel, the follow-up appointments, and the mask removal on day seven. This timeframe is quite standard for rhinoplasty patients travelling to Istanbul for medical tourism, and Arpanu Medical does an excellent job of organizing the entire schedule so that you can make the most of your time. I hope my experience helps you take that step forward!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, excellent and very informative post. I have been considering getting a rhinoplasty in Turkey because the cost is significantly lower than in the UK while the quality of surgeons seems to be very high. Your experience with the entire process from Arpanu Medical arranging transport between the hotel and clinic to the post-operative care is exactly the kind of organised medical tourism that gives confidence to patients travelling abroad for surgery. The before and after results look superb. I wanted to ask about the follow-up care after you returned home. Did your surgeon provide remote consultations or did you need to return to Istanbul for check-ups?
Hi Simon, thank you so much for your detailed comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your kind words about the results! You are absolutely right that Turkey offers an outstanding combination of quality and value when it comes to rhinoplasty, and the organized approach of Arpanu Medical truly sets the standard for medical tourism. Regarding follow-up care after returning home to Belgrade, my surgeon provided clear post-operative instructions and was available for remote consultations via email and messaging whenever I had questions or concerns during the healing process. I did not need to return to Istanbul for additional check-ups, as the recovery progressed smoothly, but the option was always available if needed, and many clinics do recommend a follow-up visit for patients who have concerns about their healing. The ongoing communication with the medical team even after returning home gave me great peace of mind throughout the entire recovery period!
Best regards,
Marko
Lieber Marko, vielen Dank für diesen sehr persönlichen Beitrag. Die Geschichte deiner Mutter hat mich besonders berührt. Fünfzehn Jahre lang mit dem Ergebnis einer misslungenen Nasenoperation leben zu müssen, ist eine enorme Belastung, sowohl physisch als auch psychisch. Ich hatte selbst vor drei Jahren eine Nasenkorrektur und bin zum größten Teil zufrieden, aber die Nasenspitze ist etwas breiter geworden als ich wollte. Deine Erwähnung, dass der Chirurg alle Wünsche angehört und potenzielle Lösungen vorgeschlagen hat, gibt mir Hoffnung. Wie war die Kommunikation zwischen dem Arzt und deiner Mutter, hat der Arzt Englisch gesprochen oder gab es einen Übersetzer?
Liebe Hildegard, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren einfühlsamen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen. Ihre Worte berühren mich sehr! Es tut mir leid zu hören, dass die Nasenspitze bei Ihrem Eingriff etwas breiter geworden ist als gewünscht, das ist eine Korrektur, die ein erfahrener Revisionschirurg durchaus durchführen kann, besonders wenn der Rest des Ergebnisses zufriedenstellend ist. Was die Kommunikation zwischen dem Arzt und meiner Mutter betrifft der Chirurg sprach fließend Englisch, und die gesamte Kommunikation verlief problemlos, sodass meine Mutter ihre Wünsche und Bedenken direkt und detailliert besprechen konnte, ohne dass ein Übersetzer nötig war. Darüber hinaus bietet Arpanu Medical auch Koordinatoren an, die bei Bedarf als Dolmetscher fungieren können, um sicherzustellen, dass jeder Patient vollständig verstanden wird. Ich würde Ihnen empfehlen, eine Beratung in Anspruch zu nehmen, die Korrektur einer zu breiten Nasenspitze gehört zu den häufigeren Revisionseingriffen und hat in der Regel sehr gute Erfolgsaussichten!
Mit herzlichen Grüßen,
Marko
Marko, this is such a valuable post for anyone considering rhinoplasty. I especially appreciated your honesty about the difference in recovery between you and your mother. While you had mild discomfort and did not even need painkillers, your mother had a harder night and needed two doses of painkillers and tranquilisers, which is a realistic representation of how individual recovery can be. I am planning to have rhinoplasty next year and I am trying to gather as much information as possible. Could you tell me if you had any dietary restrictions after the surgery, and how soon were you able to eat normal food?
Dear Felicity, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! You are absolutely right that the difference in recovery between my mother and me is an important point, because it really demonstrates how individual the rhinoplasty recovery process can be depending on the complexity of the procedure. Regarding dietary restrictions, I was able to eat a normal meal just a couple of hours after my surgery, I started with soft foods and gradually returned to my regular diet within a day or two. There were no specific long-term dietary restrictions, although the general advice was to avoid very hot foods and drinks for the first few days, to stay well hydrated, and to limit salt intake as it can contribute to fluid retention and swelling. I also found that eating foods rich in vitamins and protein helped support the healing process, and staying away from alcohol during the recovery period is also strongly recommended!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Ciao Marko, grazie per la tua onestà in questo articolo. È raro trovare qualcuno, soprattutto un uomo, che parli così apertamente della propria esperienza con la chirurgia estetica. Il tuo risultato è davvero naturale e bello, il profilo del naso nelle foto a cinque settimane dall’intervento è perfetto. Ho una domanda riguardo al dolore post-operatorio: dici che non hai preso antidolorifici e che il dolore era più simile a un fastidio. Ma nei giorni successivi, il gonfiore ha causato qualche problema con la vista o con gli occhi? Ho sentito che spesso appaiono lividi intorno agli occhi dopo la rinoplastica.
Dear Gabriella, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my personal experience, it truly means a lot to me! I am glad you appreciated my openness, and I believe that more people, especially men, should feel comfortable discussing cosmetic surgery without stigma. Regarding your question about post-operative effects on the eyes, yes, bruising around the eyes is very common after rhinoplasty, I experienced moderate bruising that appeared within the first 24 to 48 hours and was most prominent around the third to fourth day, giving a look similar to dark circles. The bruising did not significantly affect my vision, but the swelling around the eye area can make the eyes feel slightly puffy and heavy in the first few days. By the end of the second week, the bruising had faded almost entirely, transitioning from purple to yellow-green before disappearing completely. Cold compresses applied around the eyes were very helpful in managing both the bruising and the swelling!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, brilliant post. As a man who has been privately considering rhinoplasty for years, your willingness to share this experience publicly is truly appreciated. There is still a stigma around men having cosmetic surgery and your openness helps break that down. The fact that you went through this with your mother makes the story even more special. Your results are excellent and the profile view at five weeks shows a very well-shaped nose. I wanted to ask about physical activity after the surgery. How long did you have to wait before you could return to exercise, whether that be gym workouts, running or even just brisk walking?
Hi Clive, thank you so much for your honest comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your openness about considering rhinoplasty! You make an excellent point about the stigma around men and cosmetic surgery and I hope that by sharing my experience, I can help others feel more comfortable with the idea that self-improvement is something to be embraced. Regarding physical activity after surgery, I was advised to avoid any strenuous exercise, heavy lifting, and activities that could raise blood pressure for at least four to six weeks after the procedure, this means no gym workouts, running, or intense physical activity during that initial recovery period. Light walking was encouraged relatively early on, even the evening after surgery, but brisk walking and gentle exercise were only reintroduced after about three weeks, and contact sports should be avoided for at least three months to prevent any accidental impact to the nose. Patience during this period is essential for protecting the surgical result!
Best regards,
Marko
Bonjour Marko, merci infiniment pour ce témoignage. Je réfléchis à une rhinoplastie depuis longtemps et ton expérience m’a vraiment rassurée sur de nombreux points. Ce qui m’inquiète le plus, c’est le résultat final. Tu mentionnes que tu avais une vision très spécifique de l’apparence que tu souhaitais pour ton nez et ton visage. Les photos à cinq semaines montrent un résultat vraiment naturel et harmonieux. Ma question est la suivante: à quel moment après l’opération as-tu pu voir le résultat définitif de ta rhinoplastie, car j’ai lu que le nez continue à changer pendant plusieurs mois après l’intervention?
Dear Nathalie, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read about my experience, I truly appreciate it! I completely understand your concern about the final result, as it is one of the most common questions people have about rhinoplasty. After the mask was removed on day seven, I could already see a significant improvement, but the nose was still quite swollen. By around six weeks, the general shape and profile were becoming beautifully visible, which is what you see in my five-week photos. However, the definitive final result of a rhinoplasty typically takes between six months to a full year to fully reveal itself, as the nasal tip is the last area to settle and subtle refinements continue throughout that period. Patience is truly the most important virtue in rhinoplasty recovery, but I can assure you that seeing the gradual improvement is an exciting and rewarding journey!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, great honest post. I had a rhinoplasty three years ago and while the result is acceptable, I still have some asymmetry in the tip that bothers me. Your mother’s experience with secondary rhinoplasty gives me hope that revision is possible even after many years. What concerns me is finding a surgeon skilled enough to do revision work, as it is widely known to be more difficult than primary rhinoplasty. The fact that your mother had a complete reconstruction with cartilage transplant and seven grafts shows the complexity involved. Did your surgeon explain where the cartilage grafts were harvested from in your mother’s case?
Dear Raymond, thank you so much for sharing your situation and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your thoughtful comment! I understand your concern about the asymmetry in the nasal tip, and my mother’s experience is indeed proof that even years after the initial surgery, a skilled revision surgeon can achieve remarkable results. Regarding the cartilage grafts for my mother’s procedure, in complex revision rhinoplasty cases, cartilage can be harvested from three main donor sites: the nasal septum, the ear, or the rib and the choice depends on how much material is needed and what is available. In cases where a significant amount of cartilage is required for complete reconstruction, rib cartilage is often the preferred source because it provides the most abundant supply and offers strong structural support, while ear cartilage is typically used for smaller, more targeted corrections. The surgeon will determine the best approach based on your individual anatomy and the specific requirements of your revision during the consultation!
Kind regards,
Marko
Ciao Marko, che bell’articolo. La tua storia e quella di tua madre mi hanno davvero commossa. Io ho fatto una rinoplastica cinque anni fa e purtroppo il risultato non è stato quello che speravo. La punta del naso è caduta dopo qualche anno e ora ho difficoltà a respirare da una narice. Leggere che tua madre ha affrontato una rinoplastica secondaria dopo quindici anni di insoddisfazione e che il risultato è stato positivo mi dà molta speranza. Mi piacerebbe sapere se tua madre ha notato un miglioramento immediato nella respirazione dopo l’intervento o se ci è voluto del tempo per sentire la differenza.
Dear Laura, thank you so much for sharing your personal experience and for taking the time to read my post, your story truly resonates with me! I am sorry to hear about the unsatisfactory result of your rhinoplasty and the breathing difficulty you are now experiencing, but please know that these are issues that an experienced revision surgeon can absolutely address. Regarding my mother’s breathing improvement, it was not immediately noticeable right after the surgery due to the internal swelling and nasal congestion, the breathing gradually improved over the following weeks as the swelling subsided, and by about six weeks after the procedure, she noticed a very significant difference in her ability to breathe freely. The full improvement in nasal airflow continued to develop over the following months as the internal healing progressed. I would strongly encourage you to explore revision rhinoplasty options — my mother waited fifteen years, and her only regret is not doing it sooner!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, thank you for this detailed and honest account. The fact that you describe yourself as a patient with a thousand sub-questions resonates with me because I am exactly the same when it comes to medical procedures. Your experience has helped me understand the timeline of recovery much better. The seven-day mask, the swelling, the bruising, these are all things I need to plan around when scheduling a potential rhinoplasty. I work in a client-facing role and cannot afford to be visibly recovering for too long. Realistically, how many weeks after surgery would you say someone could return to work looking completely normal?
Hi Cedric, thank you so much for your detailed comment and for taking the time to read my post, I completely relate to your thousand sub-question approach! Working in a client-facing role, your concern about the visible recovery timeline is very practical and understandable. Based on my experience, most of the visible bruising fades within ten to fourteen days after surgery and by the third week, the majority of people feel comfortable going out in public without obvious signs of surgery. By the fourth week, most visible swelling has reduced dramatically and while you may still notice subtle puffiness yourself, it is generally not noticeable to colleagues or clients. I would suggest planning approximately two to three weeks away from client-facing work to be safe, and using that time for rest and recovery, by the time you return, most people would not be able to tell that you had any procedure done!
Best regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, dieser Beitrag ist so mutig und hilfreich. Ich bewundere es, dass du so offen über deine Erfahrung sprichst. Die Vorher-Nachher-Fotos sind wirklich beeindruckend und das Ergebnis sieht sehr natürlich aus. Ich habe seit Jahren eine schiefe Nasenscheidewand und überlege, eine Septoplastik mit Rhinoplastik kombinieren zu lassen. Deine Erfahrung mit der Klinik in Istanbul klingt sehr professionell. Was mich besonders beruhigt hat, ist die Tatsache, dass du nach dem Aufwachen aus der Narkose sofort gute Laune hattest und sogar Instagram-Stories gedreht hast.
Liebe Beatrice, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren freundlichen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen. Ihre Worte bedeuten mir sehr viel! Die Kombination von Septoplastik und Rhinoplastik ist eine ausgezeichnete Entscheidung, die ich aus eigener Erfahrung nur empfehlen kann, denn beide Eingriffe können in einer einzigen Operation durchgeführt werden, was bedeutet, dass Sie nur eine Narkose und eine Erholungszeit benötigen. Die professionelle Betreuung in Istanbul hat mich wirklich beeindruckt, von der gründlichen Voruntersuchung bis hin zur einfühlsamen Nachsorge war alles perfekt organisiert. Es freut mich besonders, dass die Tatsache, dass ich nach dem Aufwachen sofort gute Laune hatte und Instagram-Stories gedreht habe, Ihnen etwas die Angst nehmen konnte, das zeigt wirklich, wie professionell die moderne Anästhesie heute durchgeführt wird!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Hello Marko, your post has come at the perfect time for me. I have been seriously considering rhinoplasty and my biggest fear is not the surgery itself but the recovery period. Your description of the first walk after surgery, keeping your head straight and not looking down, is exactly the kind of practical detail that I have been looking for. The fact that you felt well enough to eat after a couple of hours is also reassuring. I noticed you mentioned that your mother experienced nausea in the early morning hours after her surgery. Is nausea a common side effect and did the clinic provide medication for it immediately?
Dear Lorraine, thank you so much for your comment and for taking the time to read my post, I am glad it came at just the right time for you! Your focus on the recovery period is very wise, because understanding what to expect after surgery is just as important as choosing the right surgeon. Regarding nausea, yes, it is a relatively common side effect of general anaesthesia that some patients experience, particularly in the first twelve to twenty-four hours after surgery, and my mother’s experience with nausea after her more complex procedure was not unusual. The clinic was very well prepared for this and provided anti-nausea medication promptly, which helped her feel much better relatively quickly. Not everyone experiences nausea, I personally did not have any issues at all, but it is reassuring to know that the medical team is equipped to handle it immediately should it occur!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hola Marko, gracias por este testimonio tan valioso. Soy un hombre que siempre ha tenido complejo por el tamaño y la forma de su nariz, y tu artículo me ha motivado a buscar una solución. Me impresiona la profesionalidad de todo el proceso que describes, desde el cuestionario inicial hasta los análisis de sangre y las pruebas diagnósticas del corazón y los pulmones antes de la operación. Eso demuestra que se toman la seguridad del paciente muy en serio. Tengo una pregunta importante: ¿el cirujano te mostró alguna simulación digital del resultado esperado antes de la operación o simplemente hablasteis sobre tus deseos verbalmente?
Hello Miguel, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! I completely understand the feeling of having a long-standing concern about the appearance of your nose and I am glad that my experience has motivated you to consider taking action. You are absolutely right that the thorough pre-operative process with blood tests, heart, and lung diagnostics demonstrates a serious commitment to patient safety. Regarding digital simulation, during my consultation the discussion about my desired result was primarily verbal, with the surgeon using his expertise and reference images to guide the conversation about realistic expectations. However, many modern clinics today do offer advanced 3D imaging and computer simulation technology that can show you a projected result before surgery, so I would highly recommend asking about this option during your initial consultation, as it can be an incredibly helpful tool for aligning your expectations with the surgeon’s plan!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, I really respect you for sharing this. Men do not talk about cosmetic surgery enough and your post is helping to change that. The results look fantastic and incredibly natural, which is the ultimate goal of any good rhinoplasty. Your surgeon clearly understood your aesthetic goals. I had a consultation for rhinoplasty last year but backed out because of fear. Reading about your positive experience with general anaesthesia, where you woke up cheerful and ready to talk, has actually helped ease my anxiety. Can I ask if there were any unexpected complications during your recovery that you were not warned about beforehand?
Hello dear Terrence, thank you so much for your honest comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly respect your openness about your initial fear! It is completely understandable to back out of a consultation due to anxiety, and I hope my experience can help you reconsider when you feel ready. I am glad that my description of waking up cheerful after anaesthesia helped ease your concerns, because modern anaesthesia is remarkably safe and the experience is often much less frightening than people imagine. Regarding unexpected complications during my recovery, I was fortunate to have a very smooth healing process with no complications beyond the normal swelling and bruising that every rhinoplasty patient experiences. The clinic was very thorough in preparing me for what to expect, so there were truly no surprises, the recovery unfolded exactly as the surgeon described. The most important thing is choosing a reputable clinic with experienced professionals, which makes all the difference!
Kind regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, what a wonderful and important post. I think the most touching part is how you decided to help your mother after she lived with disappointment from her first rhinoplasty for over fifteen years. That takes both love and courage. The fact that secondary rhinoplasty is significantly more complex than a primary procedure, requiring complete reconstruction and multiple cartilage grafts in your mother’s case, makes the successful result even more impressive. I am considering rhinoplasty myself but only for aesthetic reasons as my breathing is fine. Do you think it is worth travelling to Istanbul for the procedure or should I look for a surgeon closer to home?
Dear Sophie, thank you so much for your beautiful and thoughtful comment, your words about my decision to help my mother truly warm my heart! You are absolutely right that secondary rhinoplasty is significantly more complex than a primary procedure, which makes finding the right surgeon even more critical. Regarding your question about whether it is worth travelling to Istanbul for rhinoplasty even for purely aesthetic reasons, I would say that it absolutely can be, Turkey has become one of the world’s leading destinations for rhinoplasty because of the combination of highly skilled surgeons, state-of-the-art facilities, and significantly more affordable prices compared to Western Europe or the UK. However, my recommendation would be to consult with surgeons both locally and in Istanbul, compare their experience and results, and choose the surgeon you feel most confident with regardless of location. The most important factor is the surgeon’s skill and your comfort level with them!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Bonjour Marko, merci pour cet article très courageux. En tant qu’homme, c’est rassurant de voir un autre homme parler ouvertement de chirurgie esthétique sans honte. Ton résultat est excellent, le nez a l’air complètement naturel sur les photos à cinq et six semaines. J’ai une déviation de la cloison nasale qui m’empêche de bien respirer la nuit et mon médecin m’a recommandé une septoplastie. J’aimerais en profiter pour améliorer aussi l’esthétique de mon nez. Est-ce que combiner les deux interventions prolonge significativement le temps d’opération et de récupération par rapport à une seule des deux?
Dear Jean-Pierre, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! I am glad that as a fellow man, you found my openness about cosmetic surgery reassuring, because I firmly believe that there should be no shame in wanting to look and feel your best. Combining septoplasty with rhinoplasty is actually a very efficient approach in terms of operation time, the combined procedure does add some additional time compared to either surgery alone, but it is not drastically longer, as both corrections are performed through the same surgical access during a single session. Recovery time is also quite similar to a standalone rhinoplasty, as the external healing process remains largely the same, you will wear a nasal splint for about a week and experience the usual swelling and bruising period. The significant advantage is that you only go through one anaesthesia session and one recovery period instead of two separate surgeries!
Warm regards,
Marko
Ciao Marko, grazie per aver condiviso questa esperienza. Come donna che ha sempre voluto correggere il proprio naso, trovo il tuo articolo estremamente incoraggiante. Il fatto che tu descriva il dolore come un semplice disagio piuttosto che un dolore vero e proprio mi rassicura molto. Sono sempre stata terrorizzata dall’idea del dolore post-operatorio. Le foto del prima e dopo sono impressionanti, il risultato è molto armonioso con il tuo viso. Una domanda pratica: dopo aver tolto la mascherina nasale al settimo giorno, hai dovuto portare qualche tipo di cerotto o protezione aggiuntiva sul naso nelle settimane successive?
Dear Veronica, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your thoughtful comment! I am glad that my description of the post-operative discomfort as more of an inconvenience than actual pain has helped ease your fears, because that was genuinely my experience. Regarding your question about the nasal mask removal, after the splint was taken off on day seven, I did need to wear some light adhesive tape strips on my nose for a period of time following removal, which helped support the healing tissues and manage residual swelling. The duration and type of additional protection after splint removal can vary depending on the surgeon’s preference and the specifics of the procedure, so your surgeon will provide tailored instructions. Following these post-operative guidelines carefully is key to achieving the best possible result!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, phenomenal post. I had a rhinoplasty six years ago and I have been considering a revision because the tip of my nose drooped slightly over time. Your mother’s story of living with an unsatisfactory result for fifteen years before finding the courage for a revision is something I relate to deeply. The fact that her surgeon performed a secondary rhinoplasty with complete reconstruction and seven cartilage grafts shows an extraordinary level of skill. I have been told by two surgeons that revision rhinoplasty is one of the most challenging procedures in plastic surgery. Did your mother’s surgeon seem confident about the outcome from the very first consultation?
Dear Edwin, thank you so much for sharing your situation and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your thoughtful comment! I completely understand your experience with nasal tip drooping over time, as this is one of the more common reasons patients seek revision rhinoplasty, and it can often be corrected by strengthening the tip support structures with cartilage grafts. You are absolutely right that revision rhinoplasty is widely regarded as one of the most challenging procedures in plastic surgery, which is why choosing a surgeon with specific experience in secondary cases is paramount. Regarding your question, yes, my mother’s surgeon expressed quiet confidence about the outcome from the very first consultation, he carefully assessed her situation, acknowledged the complexity honestly, and then explained his surgical plan with clarity and optimism that genuinely put both of us at ease. That combination of honesty about the challenges and confidence in his ability was exactly what my mother needed!
Best regards,
Marko
Lieber Marko, danke für diesen ehrlichen Einblick in deine Erfahrung. Ich trage mich seit langem mit dem Gedanken an eine Nasenkorrektur und dein Beitrag hat mir sehr geholfen. Die Tatsache, dass du beschreibst, wie du nach der Operation essen konntest und Appetit hattest, ist ein Detail, das mich überrascht hat, weil ich dachte, man könnte tagelang nichts essen. Auch die Erwähnung, dass der lokale Transport zwischen Hotel und Klinik komplett organisiert war, ist sehr beruhigend für jemanden, der überlegt, für einen medizinischen Eingriff ins Ausland zu reisen. Wie lange im Voraus muss man die Konsultation und den Operationstermin buchen?
Liebe Frieda, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren freundlichen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen, das schätze ich sehr! Es freut mich, dass das Detail über das Essen nach der Operation Sie überrascht hat tatsächlich konnte ich bereits wenige Stunden nach dem Eingriff eine normale Mahlzeit zu mir nehmen und hatte sogar richtig Appetit, was auch die Krankenschwestern sehr gefreut hat. Die Organisation des lokalen Transports zwischen Hotel und Klinik durch Arpanu Medical war wirklich einer der Aspekte, die mir die meiste Sorge genommen haben, denn in einer fremden Stadt nach einer Operation nicht selbst für den Transport sorgen zu müssen, ist eine enorme Erleichterung. Was die Vorlaufzeit für die Buchung betrifft, würde ich empfehlen, sich mindestens einige Wochen im Voraus an das Arpanu Medical Team zu wenden, um einen Konsultationstermin zu vereinbaren und den Operationstermin zu planen. Am besten kontaktieren Sie das Team direkt über deren Website, um einen individuellen Zeitplan zu erstellen!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Marko, this is exactly the kind of real-world account that people need before making a decision about rhinoplasty. Your honesty about the aesthetic motivation being stronger than the medical one is refreshing. The photos at different recovery stages provide a realistic timeline that I have not found in many other accounts. I particularly noticed that at eight days post-surgery you already looked remarkably good. I am seriously considering rhinoplasty combined with septoplasty and Turkey is on my shortlist of destinations. Did the clinic provide you with a detailed recovery guide or instructions to follow once you returned home to Belgrade?
Dear Oliver, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your thoughtful comment! I am glad you noticed the eight-day photo, because I was quite pleasantly surprised myself by how quickly the visible recovery progressed after the mask was removed. Regarding your question about post-operative instructions for home care, yes, the clinic provided a very detailed recovery guide that included specific instructions about medication schedules, wound care, sleeping positions, activity restrictions, foods to avoid, and signs to watch for that would require medical attention. These instructions were thorough enough that I felt completely confident managing my recovery independently once I returned to Belgrade. Additionally, the surgeon and his team remained available for remote consultations, so if any questions arose during the healing process, I could reach out and receive guidance promptly, that ongoing support was invaluable for peace of mind!
Best regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, ich bin sehr froh, dass ich auf diesen Beitrag gestoßen bin. Ich habe vor acht Jahren eine Nasenoperation in Österreich durchführen lassen und das Ergebnis war leider nicht zufriedenstellend. Die Nasenbrücke ist immer noch schief und ich habe Probleme mit der Atmung auf einer Seite. Deine Mutter hatte ein ähnliches Problem und die Tatsache, dass ihre Revisionsoperation mit sieben Knorpeltransplantaten erfolgreich war, gibt mir neue Hoffnung. Ich habe mehrere Chirurgen konsultiert und viele lehnen Revisionseingriffe ab, weil sie zu komplex sind. Kannst du mir den genauen Namen des Chirurgen mitteilen, der euch operiert hat?
Liebe Claudia, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren offenen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen es tut mir sehr leid zu hören, dass Ihre Nasenoperation in Österreich nicht das gewünschte Ergebnis gebracht hat! Ich kann sehr gut nachvollziehen, wie frustrierend es sein muss, nach acht Jahren immer noch mit einer schiefen Nasenbrücke und Atemproblemen zu kämpfen, und ich verstehe auch, dass viele Chirurgen Revisionseingriffe ablehnen, da sie technisch sehr anspruchsvoll sind. Die gute Nachricht ist, dass der Erfolg meiner Mutter zeigt, dass auch komplexe Fälle hervorragend gelöst werden können der Schlüssel ist, einen Chirurgen zu finden, der sich auf Revisions-Rhinoplastik spezialisiert hat. Ich würde Ihnen empfehlen, sich direkt an das Team von Arpanu Medical über deren Website arpanumedical.com zu wenden, dort können Sie Ihren Fall schildern und werden an den passenden Spezialisten weitergeleitet. Bitte verlieren Sie nicht die Hoffnung, denn die richtige Lösung ist da draußen!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Hello Marko, thank you for this incredibly open and useful post. As a woman who has been unhappy with her nose since adolescence, reading your experience has been very encouraging. What resonated with me most was your statement that the moment you bought the plane tickets was when you truly realised you were going to make the change. Sometimes taking that first concrete step is the hardest part. Your results are genuinely beautiful and the profile view at five weeks is exactly the kind of natural, refined look I would want. How was the emotional experience for you in the days immediately after surgery, seeing your face swollen and different from what you expected?
Dear Evelyn, thank you so much for your beautiful and heartfelt comment, your words truly mean a lot to me! You make such an insightful observation about that pivotal moment of buying the plane tickets, it really was the psychological threshold where the dream became reality. Regarding the emotional experience in the days immediately after surgery, I will be completely honest, seeing my face swollen and bruised was initially a bit shocking, even though I knew intellectually what to expect. There were moments of impatience where I wanted to see the final result immediately, but I reminded myself that the swelling was temporary and that the healing process takes time. By the end of the first week when the mask came off, I could already glimpse the new shape emerging, which was incredibly exciting and reassuring. The key is to trust the process, be patient with your body, and focus on the long-term result rather than the temporary post-operative appearance!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Ciao Marko, grande rispetto per il coraggio di condividere questa esperienza. Sono un uomo che soffre di una deviazione del setto nasale e ho sempre voluto correggere anche l’estetica del mio naso. In Italia i costi per una rinoplastica di qualità sono piuttosto elevati e il turismo medico in Turchia mi interessa molto. Il fatto che Arpanu Medical sia certificato dal Ministero della Salute turco e sia membro dell’Associazione delle Agenzie di Viaggio turche dal 2011 mi dà molta fiducia. Puoi dirmi se il prezzo dell’intervento includeva anche l’alloggio in hotel, i trasferimenti e le visite post-operatorie?
Ciao Paolo, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate it! I completely understand your situation, as the cost of rhinoplasty in Italy can indeed be quite high, and Turkey has become a leading destination for medical tourism precisely because it offers exceptional quality at significantly more competitive prices. The fact that Arpanu Medical is certified by the Turkish Ministry of Health and has been an active member of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies since 2011 provides an important layer of credibility and trust for international patients. Regarding your question about what the price includes, many medical tourism packages in Istanbul are structured as all-inclusive offerings that typically cover the surgical procedure, hospital stay, hotel accommodation, airport and clinic transfers, and post-operative visits however, I would strongly recommend contacting the Arpanu Medical team directly to get a detailed breakdown of what is included in their specific packages!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, such a brave and honest post. I had my rhinoplasty done two years ago and while I am happy with the result, I wish I had found a blog post like yours before my surgery. The level of detail you provide about every stage from consultation through to six weeks post-op is exactly what potential patients need. Your description of the nurses encouraging you to walk around the corridors the evening after surgery and the importance of keeping your head straight are practical tips I remember from my own experience. For anyone reading this and considering rhinoplasty, I can say that Marko’s advice about patience with swelling is absolutely correct, time really does heal everything.
Dear Helena, thank you so much for your kind and encouraging comment. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read my post and to share your own rhinoplasty experience! It means a lot to know that someone who has been through the process herself finds my account accurate and helpful for others. Your confirmation about the importance of patience with swelling is so valuable, because hearing it from multiple perspectives really reinforces that message for readers who might be anxious about the recovery timeline. I am glad that the practical details like keeping your head straight during post-surgery walks and the importance of following every instruction resonated with your own experience, as these small but crucial tips can make a real difference in the healing process. Thank you for adding your voice to this conversation and helping to reassure others!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hola Marko, muchas gracias por compartir algo tan personal. El tabú que rodea la cirugía estética es algo que debemos superar como sociedad, y tu artículo contribuye a ello. Me ha impresionado especialmente el hecho de que la clínica del Dr. Serkan Aygin tenga un aspecto de museo de arte moderno, porque demuestra que se preocupan por la experiencia completa del paciente. Yo tengo un problema estético con mi nariz que me ha afectado la autoestima durante mucho tiempo. Tu resultado es muy natural y no parece que te hayas operado, que es exactamente lo que buscaría. ¿Sentiste algún tipo de entumecimiento en la nariz después de la operación y cuánto tiempo tardó en desaparecer?
Dear Manuel, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words! You are absolutely right that the taboo surrounding cosmetic surgery is something we should work to overcome as a society and I am happy to contribute to that conversation. The modern art museum atmosphere at Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic is indeed a wonderful touch that shows a holistic approach to the patient experience. Regarding numbness after the operation, yes, temporary numbness in the nasal area is very common following rhinoplasty, I experienced some reduced sensation in the tip and the bridge of my nose, which is caused by the temporary disruption of small nerve fibres during surgery. This numbness gradually improved over the following weeks and months, with most of the normal sensation returning within about three to six months as the nerves regenerated. It is nothing to worry about, as it resolves naturally!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, I found this post deeply moving, especially the part about your mother. The idea that she carried the disappointment of an unsuccessful rhinoplasty for over fifteen years before you helped her find a solution is both heartbreaking and heartwarming. The before and after photos of her secondary rhinoplasty with complete reconstruction show a truly remarkable transformation. I am currently in a similar situation, having had a rhinoplasty seven years ago that left me with breathing difficulties and an asymmetric tip. Your post has given me the courage to start researching revision rhinoplasty. Was your mother apprehensive about going under general anaesthesia again after her first negative experience?
Dear Agnes, thank you so much for sharing your deeply personal story and for taking the time to read my post, your words truly moved me! I am sorry to hear about your breathing difficulties and asymmetric tip after your rhinoplasty seven years ago and I am glad that my mother’s story has given you the courage to start researching revision options. Regarding your question about my mother’s apprehension, she was absolutely nervous and the fear of going under general anaesthesia again after her negative first experience was very real. However, the surgeon’s calm, optimistic, and thoroughly professional demeanour during the consultation made an enormous difference, he took the time to address all of her fears and explained the procedure in detail. By the time the surgery day arrived, my mother felt much more at ease, and having me there going through the same experience on the same day also provided her with emotional support that helped tremendously!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, vielen Dank für diesen offenen und detaillierten Bericht. Als jemand, der seit Jahren über eine Nasenoperation nachdenkt, hat dein Beitrag viele meiner Fragen beantwortet. Die Vorher-Nachher-Bilder sprechen für sich, das Ergebnis sieht wirklich fantastisch und sehr natürlich aus. Besonders gut gefällt mir, dass du dein Erlebnis nach dem Aufwachen aus der Narkose so positiv beschrieben hast, das nimmt einem die Angst. Ich habe gelesen, dass nach einer Rhinoplastik für mehrere Wochen eine Schwellung der Nasenspitze bestehen bleibt. Wie war das bei dir und wann hat sich die endgültige Form deiner Nase stabilisiert?
Lieber Konrad, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren freundlichen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen, es freut mich sehr, dass die Vorher-Nachher-Bilder Sie überzeugt haben! Die Schwellung nach einer Rhinoplastik verläuft in mehreren Phasen die stärkste Schwellung tritt in den ersten drei bis vier Tagen auf, nimmt dann in den folgenden Wochen stetig ab, und nach etwa vier bis sechs Wochen ist bereits ein Großteil der Schwellung zurückgegangen, sodass die neue Nasenform deutlich sichtbar wird. Allerdings ist es wichtig zu wissen, dass die Nasenspitze in der Regel der letzte Bereich ist, der sich vollständig stabilisiert, und subtile Veränderungen können sich über sechs bis zwölf Monate nach der Operation fortsetzen. Bei mir war die Nase nach etwa drei Monaten schon sehr nah am Endergebnis, aber die allerletzten feinen Details haben sich erst nach ungefähr einem Jahr vollständig gezeigt. Geduld ist wirklich der Schlüssel!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Hello Marko, excellent post. What I appreciate most is the practical information you provide alongside the personal story. The fact that you wore a nose mask for seven days, that your mother had additional patches for her reconstruction, and that medications were prescribed to manage pain, swelling and prevent infection are all important details. I have been researching rhinoplasty for about a year now and am seriously considering Turkey. The cost difference compared to Western Europe is significant while the quality of care you describe seems to be very high. Would you go back to the same clinic and surgeon if you ever needed a touch-up procedure?
Dear Nigel, thank you so much for your detailed comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your thoughtful questions! You have clearly done thorough research and I am glad that the practical details about the nose mask, medication, and recovery process were helpful. Regarding the cost difference between Turkey and Western Europe, you are absolutely right that the savings are significant rhinoplasty in Istanbul can cost a fraction of what you would pay in the UK while maintaining equally high standards of care. As for your question about whether I would return to the same clinic and surgeon for a touch-up, the answer is absolutely yes without hesitation, the level of professionalism, care, and surgical skill I experienced gave me complete confidence. Fortunately, I have been very happy with my result and have not needed any additional work, but knowing that the option is available is very reassuring!
Best regards,
Marko
Bonjour Marko, quel article touchant et courageux. L’histoire de ta maman m’a particulièrement émue. Avoir vécu quinze ans avec le résultat d’une rhinoplastie ratée est une souffrance que je comprends très bien, car ma propre mère a vécu une situation similaire après une opération du nez il y a douze ans. Les photos avant et après de ta maman montrent une transformation remarquable. Sept greffons de cartilage pour une reconstruction complète, c’est un travail chirurgical impressionnant. Est-ce que ta maman a ressenti beaucoup de douleur au niveau de la zone où le cartilage a été prélevé, en plus de la douleur nasale?
Dear Isabelle, thank you so much for sharing your mother’s story and for taking the time to read my post, your words truly touched my heart! I am so sorry to hear that your mother has been going through a similar experience after her rhinoplasty twelve years ago. Regarding your question about pain at the cartilage donor site, this depends on where the cartilage is harvested from if taken from the rib, which is common in complex reconstructions requiring large amounts of grafting material, there can be some discomfort and soreness at the chest incision site during the first week or two of recovery, in addition to the nasal discomfort. If the cartilage is harvested from the ear, the donor site discomfort tends to be milder. The surgical team provides appropriate pain management for all involved sites, and the donor site discomfort typically resolves well before the nasal healing is complete. I would encourage your mother to explore revision rhinoplasty!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, thank you for this post. I have been going back and forth about getting rhinoplasty for years and your account has brought me closer to making a decision. The fact that you and your mother both had surgery on the same day and could support each other through recovery is actually a brilliant idea. I especially liked your observation that the moment of buying the plane tickets was when it all became real. I think many people can relate to that feeling of crossing a psychological threshold. My main concern is about scarring. You did not mention whether your rhinoplasty was done using the open or closed technique. Could you clarify which approach was used?
Hello Derek, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words! You make an excellent observation about the power of that first concrete action, buying the plane tickets truly transformed the abstract idea into a real commitment. Regarding your question about the surgical technique, there are two main approaches to rhinoplasty the open technique, which involves a small incision on the columella between the nostrils for full visibility of the nasal structures, and the closed technique, where all incisions are made inside the nostrils leaving no external scars. In the case of open rhinoplasty, the tiny columellar scar typically heals remarkably well and becomes virtually invisible over time. I would recommend discussing both techniques with your surgeon during your consultation, as the choice depends on the complexity of the changes needed and the surgeon’s expertise and preference!
Best regards,
Marko
Querido Marko, este artículo es un regalo para todos los que estamos considerando una rinoplastia. Tu honestidad al describir cada etapa del proceso, desde la emoción previa hasta la incomodidad posterior, es exactamente lo que necesitaba leer. Las fotos del progreso son muy útiles porque muestran cómo evoluciona la recuperación día a día. Me ha llamado mucho la atención que no necesitaste tomar analgésicos después de la operación y que solo sentiste una molestia leve. Tengo una pregunta: ¿cuándo pudiste volver a usar gafas después de la operación, ya que he leído que no se pueden apoyar sobre el puente de la nariz durante varias semanas?
Dear Marina, thank you so much for your beautiful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words! I am glad that the progression photos were useful, as documenting the recovery journey was important to me precisely because these realistic visual references are something I wish I had seen before my own surgery. Regarding wearing glasses after rhinoplasty, this is indeed an important practical consideration, most surgeons advise against resting glasses directly on the bridge of the nose for approximately four to six weeks after surgery, as the weight can potentially affect the healing nasal bones. During this period, many patients use alternative solutions such as taping the glasses to the forehead, using special glasses supports that distribute the weight away from the nose bridge, or switching to contact lenses temporarily. Your surgeon will provide specific guidance on when it is safe to resume wearing glasses normally!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, I want to thank you for being so transparent about this experience. The stigma around male cosmetic surgery is slowly changing and posts like yours make a real difference. Your results speak for themselves, the nose looks natural and perfectly proportioned to your face. As someone who has a prominent bump on the bridge of my nose that has bothered me for decades, I am now seriously considering rhinoplasty. The whole process with Arpanu Medical sounds very well managed. Can you tell me roughly how much time you spent in the clinic itself before being released to the hotel the next day?
Hi Roger, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your openness! You are absolutely right that the stigma around male cosmetic surgery is slowly changing, and I am proud to be part of that shift. Regarding the time spent in the clinic before being released to the hotel, after my surgery at 9 AM, I spent the rest of the day and one full night at the clinic for monitoring and post-operative care, so approximately twenty-four hours in total from the time of the procedure until being discharged the following day. During that time, the nurses monitored my recovery, managed any discomfort, encouraged me to walk around the corridors in the evening, and ensured I was eating and feeling well enough to continue recovery at the hotel. The transition to the hotel was smooth, and the organized transport provided by Arpanu Medical made the entire process stress-free!
Best regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, what a beautifully written and honest post. I have been researching rhinoplasty surgeons for months and your experience has added Turkey to my list of considerations. The fact that the entire medical tourism process is managed by Arpanu Medical, from transport to accommodation to clinical care, takes away so much of the stress of travelling abroad for surgery. Your mother’s experience is particularly relevant to me because I had a rhinoplasty four years ago that left me with a pinched tip and I am now considering revision surgery. The fact that seven cartilage grafts were used in your mother’s reconstruction shows incredible surgical precision. Did your surgeon explain why so many grafts were necessary?
Dear Rosalind, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate you sharing your own situation! I am sorry to hear about the pinched tip resulting from your rhinoplasty four years ago. Regarding why so many cartilage grafts were necessary for my mother’s reconstruction, her situation was exceptionally complex because her first surgery had significantly altered the nasal framework, leaving insufficient structural support the seven grafts were needed to rebuild the nasal tip structure, provide adequate projection and definition, reinforce the sidewalls, and essentially reconstruct the entire nasal skeleton. In cases of pinched tip like yours, the reconstruction may be less extensive but would still likely require cartilage grafts to restore the natural width and shape of the tip. The surgeon will assess the exact extent of work needed during your consultation, and I would strongly encourage you to explore this option!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, großartiger Beitrag. Ich habe vor sechs Jahren eine Nasenoperation in München durchführen lassen und obwohl das Ergebnis ästhetisch in Ordnung war, habe ich immer noch Probleme mit der Atmung auf der linken Seite. Dein Beitrag über die Kombination von Septoplastik und Rhinoplastik hat mich dazu gebracht, ernsthaft über eine Revision nachzudenken. Die professionelle Betreuung, die du beschreibst, einschließlich der Blutuntersuchungen und der Herz-Lungen-Diagnostik am Tag des Eingriffs, zeigt ein hohes Maß an Sorgfalt. Wie war deine Erfahrung mit dem Atmen durch die Nase in den ersten Wochen nach der Operation, als alles noch geschwollen war?
Lieber Dietrich, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren offenen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen, es tut mir leid zu hören, dass Sie trotz des ästhetisch zufriedenstellenden Ergebnisses Ihrer Operation in München immer noch Atemprobleme auf der linken Seite haben! Die Kombination von Septoplastik und Rhinoplastik ist tatsächlich eine hervorragende Möglichkeit, sowohl die funktionellen als auch die ästhetischen Aspekte in einem einzigen Eingriff zu korrigieren. Was meine Erfahrung mit dem Atmen in den ersten Wochen nach der Operation betrifft ehrlich gesagt war die Nasenatmung in der ersten Woche aufgrund der inneren Schwellung und des Splints stark eingeschränkt, und ich habe hauptsächlich durch den Mund geatmet. Ab der zweiten Woche verbesserte sich die Nasenatmung allmählich, und nach etwa vier bis sechs Wochen konnte ich deutlich freier durch die Nase atmen als je zuvor. Die Geduld in den ersten Wochen wird durch das langfristige Ergebnis mehr als belohnt!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Marko, this post is so important and I am grateful you shared it. I have had two consultations for rhinoplasty in my home city and both times I left feeling uncertain because the surgeons seemed dismissive of my concerns. Your description of the surgeon at Dr. Serkan Aygin Clinic being extremely patient, cheerful and optimistic is exactly the kind of experience I want. The doctor-patient relationship is crucial for something as personal as reshaping your nose. Your five-week results are truly impressive. I would love to know if you have any tips for managing the emotional ups and downs of the recovery period, because I have read that many patients experience anxiety about the final result.
Dear Annabel, thank you so much for sharing your experience and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your openness! I am sorry to hear that you have felt dismissed during your consultations, because the doctor-patient relationship is absolutely fundamental when it comes to rhinoplasty. Regarding managing the emotional ups and downs of recovery, the most important thing is to set realistic expectations from the very beginning, understand that swelling is temporary, that the nose changes shape gradually over months, and that the final result takes up to a year to emerge. There were definitely moments of impatience and anxiety during my recovery, but trusting my surgeon, focusing on the progressive improvements rather than the day-to-day fluctuations, and reminding myself of the ultimate goal helped me stay positive. Having a supportive person around you during the first few days also makes a tremendous difference in managing any emotional vulnerability!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Ciao Marko, complimenti per il coraggio e per questo articolo. La chirurgia estetica non dovrebbe essere un tabù e parlarne apertamente aiuta tutti coloro che stanno considerando questo percorso. Il tuo risultato è eccellente, il naso ha un aspetto molto naturale sia di fronte che di profilo. Come uomo che ha sempre avuto un complesso per la gobba sul dorso del naso, il tuo articolo mi ha dato la motivazione per prendere finalmente una decisione. Vorrei sapere se durante la prima consultazione il chirurgo ha utilizzato qualche tipo di software di simulazione per mostrarti il possibile risultato, o se avete discusso solo verbalmente dei tuoi desideri.
Hi Francesco, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate it! I completely agree that cosmetic surgery should not be a taboo topic, and I am glad that my experience has given you the motivation to address the dorsal hump that has been bothering you. Regarding your question about computer simulation software, during my first consultation the surgeon and I discussed my wishes primarily through conversation, using verbal descriptions and reference images to align expectations. Many advanced clinics today do offer 3D digital simulation technology that can generate a projected image of the expected outcome, which can be an incredibly valuable tool for ensuring that patient and surgeon share the same vision. I would recommend specifically asking about this technology when you schedule your consultation, as it can provide wonderful peace of mind!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, your post has been incredibly reassuring for me. I have been terrified of rhinoplasty, specifically the recovery period, and your honest description has helped put things into perspective. The fact that you were eating well and talking to staff just a couple of hours after surgery, and that you chose not to take painkillers because the discomfort was so mild, is very encouraging. I also appreciated the tip about applying ice packs to help with swelling and bruising. One question that I have not seen answered often is about sun exposure. After your surgery, were you advised to avoid direct sunlight on your nose and for how long?
Dear Meredith, thank you so much for your comment and for taking the time to read my post, I am glad it has been reassuring for you! I completely understand the fear of the recovery period, and I hope my honest description has shown that while recovery requires patience, it is very manageable. Regarding sun exposure, yes, this is an important aspect of post-operative care, after rhinoplasty, the nose is more sensitive to sunlight, and prolonged sun exposure can cause increased swelling, permanent skin discolouration, and potentially affect the healing process. Most surgeons recommend avoiding direct sunlight on the nose and using a high SPF sunscreen diligently for at least three to six months after surgery, and wearing a hat when outdoors during peak sun hours. Being careful about sun protection not only supports healing but also helps ensure the best possible aesthetic outcome in the long term!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Ciao Marko, articolo molto utile e sincero. Io ho una deviazione del setto nasale piuttosto importante che mi causa problemi respiratori cronici. Il mio medico mi ha suggerito una settoplastica ma io vorrei approfittarne per migliorare anche l’estetica del mio naso. La tua esperienza dimostra che è possibile combinare le due procedure con ottimi risultati. Il fatto che Arpanu Medical sia certificato dal Ministero della Salute turco è un elemento molto importante per la fiducia del paziente. Volevo chiederti se hai avuto bisogno di tamponi nasali dopo l’operazione e, se sì, per quanto tempo li hai dovuti tenere.
Dear Alberto, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate it! Combining septoplasty with rhinoplasty is indeed an excellent approach that allows you to address both the functional breathing issues and the aesthetic concerns in a single procedure. The certification of Arpanu Medical by the Turkish Ministry of Health is indeed a very important factor that provides confidence for international patients. Regarding nasal packing or tampons after surgery, practices vary between surgeons, some use internal nasal splints or light packing that is typically removed within the first day or two after surgery, while others use dissolvable materials that do not require removal. In my case, the internal splints were manageable and their removal was quick and straightforward. Your surgeon will discuss their specific approach during the consultation, so you will know exactly what to expect!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, thank you so much for this candid post. As a woman who has been considering rhinoplasty for aesthetic reasons, I found your honesty about wanting a more beautiful nose incredibly validating. Your results are wonderful and the transformation is subtle yet significant, which is the hallmark of excellent surgical work. I was particularly interested in the photos taken at different stages because they give a realistic expectation of the healing process. The swelling at four days versus the look at five weeks is quite a difference. Could you share whether you used any special products like arnica cream or supplements to speed up the healing process?
Dear Catherine, thank you so much for your lovely comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words! I am glad that my honesty about wanting a more beautiful nose felt validating for you, because I believe that aesthetic desires are perfectly legitimate. You make an excellent observation about the difference between the four-day swelling and the five-week appearance, it really is quite a dramatic transformation that illustrates why patience is essential. Regarding products to help speed up healing, I focused primarily on following the surgeon’s prescribed medication regimen, applying cold compresses to reduce swelling, staying well hydrated, and maintaining a healthy diet rich in vitamins and protein. Some patients also use arnica supplements or creams to help reduce bruising, and bromelain is another supplement sometimes recommended for its anti-inflammatory properties however, always consult with your surgeon before taking any additional supplements!
Best regards,
Marko
Bonjour Marko, merci pour ce témoignage précieux. Je suis un homme qui envisage une rhinoplastie depuis plusieurs années et ton article m’a donné le courage de prendre rendez-vous pour une première consultation. Ce qui m’a le plus rassuré, c’est ta description du réveil après l’anesthésie générale, le fait que tu étais joyeux et de bonne humeur. L’anesthésie est ma plus grande peur. Les résultats après cinq semaines sont vraiment impressionnants et ton nez a l’air complètement naturel. Peux-tu me dire si des points de suture sont visibles après l’opération et combien de temps ils mettent à disparaître?
Dear Pascal, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I am truly glad that my experience has given you courage to take the next step! The fear of anaesthesia is one of the most common concerns, and I can assure you from personal experience that modern anaesthesia is incredibly safe and the wake-up process can be surprisingly pleasant. Regarding sutures, in open rhinoplasty there is a small external incision on the columella between the nostrils, and the sutures from this incision are typically removed within the first week during a follow-up appointment, the resulting scar usually becomes virtually invisible over time. Any internal sutures are generally dissolvable and do not require removal. In closed rhinoplasty, all incisions are made inside the nostrils, so there are no visible external sutures or scars at all. Your surgeon will explain which technique is most appropriate for your case!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, what a helpful and honest post. I had rhinoplasty three years ago and while I am mostly happy with the result, I wish my surgeon had been as patient and attentive as yours sounds. The fact that your surgeon came to visit before the operation to go through your wish list one final time shows a level of care that is not always standard. I also loved the detail about the clinic looking like a modern art museum, because the environment really does affect your state of mind before surgery. For anyone considering rhinoplasty, I would add that Marko’s advice about patience during recovery is the most important takeaway from this post.
Dear Harriet, thank you so much for your kind and generous comment and for taking the time to read my post. I especially appreciate you sharing your own rhinoplasty experience! Your observation about the surgeon visiting before the operation to review the wish list one final time is spot on that level of attention and care is not always standard, and it truly made a significant difference in my confidence going into the operating room. You are absolutely right that the clinic environment plays an important role in a patient’s state of mind, and Dr. Serkan Aygin’s vision of combining art with medicine created an atmosphere that helped ease pre-surgery anxiety considerably. Thank you for reinforcing the message about patience during recovery, hearing it from someone who has personally experienced the journey adds so much credibility and reassurance for others!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hola Marko, este es probablemente el artículo más útil que he leído sobre rinoplastia. Tu descripción de todo el proceso, paso a paso, es increíblemente detallada y honesta. Me ha impresionado especialmente que tu madre se sometiera a una rinoplastia secundaria con reconstrucción completa y siete injertos de cartílago. Eso demuestra que incluso los casos más complejos tienen solución con el cirujano adecuado. Yo tuve una rinoplastia hace cuatro años y la punta de mi nariz ha caído ligeramente con el tiempo. ¿Crees que es algo que podría corregirse con una revisión menor o necesitaría una reconstrucción completa como tu madre?
Hello Valentin, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for sharing your own situation. I truly appreciate it! I am sorry to hear that the tip of your nose has dropped slightly over the years after your rhinoplasty, as this is a known issue that can occur when tip support structures weaken over time. Whether you would need a minor revision or a complete reconstruction depends entirely on the specific condition of your nasal structures, the amount of cartilage available, and the extent of correction needed, this is something only an experienced surgeon can determine after a thorough examination. In general, a slight tip drop can sometimes be corrected with a more targeted revision using cartilage grafts to reinforce and reposition the tip, which would be less extensive than the full reconstruction my mother underwent. I would strongly recommend scheduling a consultation with a surgeon who specialises in revision rhinoplasty!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, thank you for this post. I have been silently reading your blog for fashion and travel content and was surprised but very pleased to see you address something as personal as rhinoplasty. Your courage in sharing before and after photos, discussing pain levels, and even showing yourself three hours post-surgery with an ice mask is remarkable transparency. I am seriously considering rhinoplasty and your post has helped me understand what the first few days of recovery actually look like versus the idealised accounts I have found elsewhere. The practical tip about walking in the corridors the same evening while keeping your head straight is something I will remember.
Dear Millicent, thank you so much for your incredibly kind comment and for being a loyal reader of my blog, it means the world to me to know that you follow my fashion and travel content and I am glad that this more personal post was a welcome surprise! I believe that transparency about the full range of life experiences, including something as personal as cosmetic surgery, creates a more authentic connection with readers, which is why I chose to share even the raw moments like the three-hour post-surgery photo with the ice mask. I am glad that my account has provided a realistic picture compared to the idealised versions you may have found elsewhere, because I believe that honest expectations lead to better experiences and more satisfying results. The practical tip about walking in the corridors while keeping your head straight is one of those small details that truly makes a difference in recovery!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, danke für diesen mutigen und informativen Beitrag. Ich habe eine Nasenkorrektur vor vier Jahren in Zürich durchführen lassen und obwohl der ästhetische Aspekt gut ist, habe ich weiterhin Probleme mit der Nasenatmung. Die Tatsache, dass bei deiner Mutter nach einer gescheiterten Erstoperation eine erfolgreiche Revisionsrhinoplastik durchgeführt werden konnte, macht mir Hoffnung. Ich überlege, eine Revisions-Septoplastik kombiniert mit einer kleinen ästhetischen Korrektur durchführen zu lassen. Dein Tipp über Istanbul und die Arpanu Medical Gruppe als seriösen Anbieter im Bereich Medizintourismus ist sehr wertvoll.
Lieber Bruno, vielen herzlichen Dank für Ihren offenen Kommentar und dafür, dass Sie sich die Zeit genommen haben, meinen Beitrag zu lesen, es tut mir leid zu hören, dass Sie trotz eines guten ästhetischen Ergebnisses nach Ihrer Operation in Zürich weiterhin Probleme mit der Nasenatmung haben! Eine Revisions-Septoplastik kombiniert mit einer kleinen ästhetischen Korrektur ist durchaus ein realistischer und vielversprechender Ansatz, und die Erfahrung meiner Mutter zeigt, dass auch nach einer früheren Operation hervorragende Ergebnisse erzielt werden können. Istanbul hat sich zu einem der weltweit führenden Zentren für Rhinoplastik und medizinischen Tourismus entwickelt, und die Arpanu Medical Gruppe bietet einen seriösen und gut organisierten Rahmen, der den gesamten Prozess von der ersten Beratung bis zur Nachsorge abdeckt. Ich würde Ihnen empfehlen, sich direkt an das Team zu wenden und Ihren Fall zu schildern, die Kombination aus Schweizer Anspruch an Qualität und der Expertise der Istanbuler Chirurgen könnte genau das Richtige für Sie sein!
Herzliche Grüße,
Marko
Ciao Marko, grazie per questa testimonianza così sincera e dettagliata. Come donna che sta pensando di sottoporsi a una rinoplastica, il tuo articolo mi ha dato molte informazioni utili che non avevo trovato altrove. Mi ha particolarmente colpito il fatto che descrivessi le infermiere come sorridenti e accoglienti durante il tuo percorso verso la sala operatoria, perché l’atmosfera in quei momenti è fondamentale per calmare l’ansia. Il tuo risultato è bellissimo e molto naturale. Un’ultima domanda: dopo l’intervento, hai avuto difficoltà a dormire a causa del gonfiore e della mascherina nasale, e hai dovuto dormire in una posizione particolare?
Dear Eleonora, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words! Your observation about the smiling nurses and the warm atmosphere during the walk to the operating room is something that really stayed with me too, the environment and energy of the people around you in those anxious moments before surgery can make an enormous difference. Regarding sleeping after the surgery, I will be honest, sleeping was somewhat challenging during the first week due to the nasal splint, the swelling, and the requirement to sleep on your back with your head elevated on two to three pillows. The mask itself did not cause pain, but the combination of mouth breathing, the unfamiliar sleeping position, and general post-surgical discomfort made the first few nights less restful. However, by the second week, sleeping became progressively easier, and after the mask removal on day seven, the improvement was significant!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, exceptional post and one that I think will help many people make an informed decision about rhinoplasty. Your transparency about the entire process, from the initial motivation to the practical details of recovery, sets this apart from most cosmetic surgery testimonials I have read. The comparison between your relatively straightforward recovery and your mother’s more challenging experience after secondary rhinoplasty is particularly valuable because it shows that every case is truly individual. Your photos at six weeks look fantastic. I have one final question: looking back now after some time has passed since the surgery, is there anything you would have done differently in your preparation or recovery?
Dear Gilbert, thank you so much for your generous comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words about the transparency of my account! The comparison between my recovery and my mother’s more challenging experience was intentional, because I wanted readers to understand that every case is truly individual. Regarding your question about what I would have done differently, looking back I would say that I wish I had been even more patient with the healing process in the early weeks, there were moments when I overanalysed the swelling and worried unnecessarily, which caused unnecessary stress. I would also recommend having meals prepared in advance and creating the most comfortable elevated sleeping setup possible before the surgery day. Otherwise, I am deeply satisfied with every aspect of the experience and would not change my choice of clinic, surgeon, or destination!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, I just came across this post and I cannot tell you how much it means to me. I have been unhappy with my nose since I was a teenager and have spent years researching rhinoplasty without ever having the courage to go through with it. Your honest description of the recovery, especially the fact that you described the pain as more of a discomfort than real pain, has genuinely eased my fears. The before and after profile photos at five weeks look absolutely beautiful and natural. Can I ask whether you experienced any numbness in the tip of your nose after the surgery, and if so, how long it lasted?
Dear Rowena, thank you so much for your heartfelt comment, your words truly warm my heart, and I am so glad that my post has helped ease your long-standing fears about rhinoplasty! Deciding to have cosmetic surgery after years of consideration is a significant step, and I completely understand the courage it takes. Regarding numbness in the tip of the nose, yes, this is a very common and completely normal occurrence after rhinoplasty. I did experience temporary numbness and reduced sensation in the nasal tip after the surgery. This numbness is caused by the temporary disruption of small sensory nerve fibres during the procedure, and in my case, normal sensation gradually returned over the following months, with most of the feeling restored within approximately three to six months. It is nothing to worry about, as it resolves naturally as the nerves regenerate during the healing process!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, bedankt voor het delen van dit persoonlijke verhaal. Als Nederlander die al jaren overweegt om een neuscorrectie te laten doen, vind ik het heel waardevol om een eerlijk verslag te lezen van iemand die het daadwerkelijk heeft meegemaakt. Het verhaal van je moeder is bijzonder aangrijpend, vijftien jaar leven met een mislukt resultaat is een enorme belasting. Het feit dat haar secundaire rhinoplastiek met zeven kraakbeentransplantaten succesvol was, geeft mij hoop. Ik heb een scheef neustussenschot dat mijn ademhaling belemmert en overweeg een combinatie van septoplastiek en rhinoplastiek. Hoe lang duurde het voordat je weer normaal door je neus kon ademen na de operatie?
Dear Willem, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate it! I am glad that my mother’s story resonated with you, and I hope it provides encouragement for your own journey towards combining septoplasty with rhinoplasty. Regarding how long it took before I could breathe normally through my nose, the first week was the most restricted due to internal swelling, the nasal splint, and congestion, I relied primarily on mouth breathing. By the second week, some nasal airflow started to return, and by approximately four to six weeks after surgery, I noticed a dramatic improvement in my ability to breathe freely. The full benefit continued to develop over the following months as the healing progressed, and I can say that the improvement in breathing quality has been truly life-changing!
Kind regards,
Marko
Szia Marko, nagyon köszönöm, hogy megosztottad velünk ezt a személyes történetet. Én évek óta gondolkodom az orrplasztikán, mert nem vagyok elégedett az orrom megjelenésével, és emellett az orrsövényferdülésem is légzési problémákat okoz. A te tapasztalatod Isztambulban az Arpanu Medical csapattal nagyon meggyőzően hangzik. Különösen az tetszett, hogy a műtét utáni néhány órával már jó hangulatban voltál és tudtál enni. Szeretném megkérdezni, hogy a műtét után mennyivel később tudtál visszatérni a normális napi rutinodhoz, például dolgozni vagy sportolni?
Dear Szabolcs, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read about my experience, I truly appreciate it! I am glad that the detail about feeling well enough to eat and be in good spirits shortly after surgery was encouraging for you. Regarding the return to normal daily routine, light daily activities like gentle walks and basic tasks around the house were possible within about a week to ten days after surgery, and I felt comfortable returning to desk-based work from home within approximately two weeks. However, returning to more physical activities and exercise required more patience most surgeons recommend waiting at least four to six weeks before resuming workouts, running, or any strenuous physical activity. By the sixth week, I felt confident resuming most of my normal routine, including moderate exercise!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, tack för att du delar med dig av denna personliga upplevelse. Det krävs verkligt mod att prata öppet om kosmetisk kirurgi, särskilt som man. Dina före- och efterbilder är imponerande och resultatet ser väldigt naturligt ut, vilket är det viktigaste för mig. Jag har funderat på näsplastik i flera år men har aldrig vågat ta steget. Din beskrivning av hur kliniken såg ut som ett modernt konstmuseum snarare än en medicinsk institution fick mig att känna mig mer avslappnad inför tanken. Hur lång tid tog det innan svullnaden gick ner tillräckligt för att du kunde se det slutgiltiga resultatet?
Hello Astrid, thank you so much for your kind comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your warm words! I am glad that the detail about the clinic’s modern art museum atmosphere helped you feel more comfortable with the idea of rhinoplasty. Regarding the timeline for seeing the final result, the most dramatic swelling subsides within the first four to six weeks, which is when the general shape becomes quite visible. However, the truly definitive final result takes approximately six to twelve months to fully emerge, as the nasal tip is the last area to settle and subtle refinements continue throughout that healing period. In my experience, by the three-month mark my nose was looking very close to its final form, but the last details of definition continued to refine for up to a year. Patience truly is the most essential ingredient in rhinoplasty recovery!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, brilliant and courageous post. As a man who has been quietly considering rhinoplasty for years, your openness about the procedure is exactly what I needed to read. The detail about your mother having seven cartilage grafts during her secondary rhinoplasty really puts into perspective how complex revision surgery can be. Your own results at five and six weeks look outstanding. I was particularly interested in the fact that the clinic performed blood tests and heart and lung diagnostics on the same day as the surgery. That level of thoroughness is reassuring. Did you have to stop taking any medications or supplements before the procedure?
Dear Callum, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words about my results! You are absolutely right that the thoroughness of pre-operative testing reflects a serious commitment to patient safety. Regarding medications and supplements before surgery, yes, the standard pre-operative instructions include stopping blood-thinning medications such as aspirin, ibuprofen, and certain anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as supplements like vitamin E, fish oil, and certain herbal remedies that can increase bleeding risk, typically for about two weeks before the procedure. It is very important to disclose all medications and supplements you are taking during your consultation so that the surgeon can provide specific guidance tailored to your situation. The surgical team will give you a comprehensive list of what to avoid during the pre-operative preparation period!
Best regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, vilket fantastiskt och modigt inlägg. Jag har haft problem med min näsa sedan en olycka för tio år sedan och har övervägt en korrektiv rhinoplastik sedan dess. Din mammas historia om att leva med ett misslyckat resultat i femton år innan hon äntligen fick hjälp berör mig djupt. Det ger mig hopp att även komplicerade fall kan lösas med rätt kirurg. Jag undrar om din kirurg använde någon typ av datoriserad simulering för att visa dig det förväntade resultatet innan operationen, eller diskuterade ni bara era önskemål muntligt?
Hello dear Katarina, thank you so much for sharing your personal story and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your openness! I am sorry to hear about your accident and the ongoing issues with your nose, and I am glad that my mother’s story has given you hope. Regarding your question about computer simulation, during my consultation the discussion was conducted primarily through verbal communication and reference images, with the surgeon using his extensive experience to guide the conversation about realistic expectations. However, many modern clinics now offer advanced 3D digital imaging technology that can create a visual simulation of the expected result before surgery, which can be incredibly helpful for setting realistic expectations. I would highly recommend asking about this technology during your consultation, as it can provide valuable peace of mind!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, tak for dette ærlige og modige indlæg. Jeg har overvejet en næseoperation i flere år, men har altid været bange for bedøvelsen og smerten bagefter. Din beskrivelse af, at du vågnede op i godt humør og endda filmede Instagram-stories med en ismaske på ansigtet, har virkelig beroliget mig. Det er også godt at vide, at smerten mere var som et ubehag end egentlig smerte. Jeg har et skævt næseskillevæg, der gør det svært at trække vejret om natten. Kan du fortælle mig, om du oplevede nogen komplikationer i ugerne efter operationen, eller gik alt glat?
Dear Lars, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! I completely understand the frustration of dealing with both aesthetic and functional nasal issues, and I can confirm that combining septoplasty with rhinoplasty is an excellent approach. Regarding the cost, rhinoplasty prices in Istanbul typically range from approximately 2,500 to 5,000 US dollars for a primary procedure, which is significantly lower than what most clinics in Copenhagen or other Scandinavian cities would charge. All-inclusive medical tourism packages often include hospital fees, hotel accommodation, airport and clinic transfers, and post-operative consultations. However, I would recommend contacting the Arpanu Medical team directly for a personalised quote based on your specific needs, as the exact price depends on the complexity of the procedure and the specific services included!
Kind regards,
Marko
Здравствуй, Марко, спасибо за такой честный и смелый пост. Я давно думаю о ринопластике, потому что у меня искривлена носовая перегородка и мне трудно дышать. История твоей мамы особенно меня тронула, потому что моя подруга тоже пережила неудачную операцию на носу и боится делать повторную. Тот факт, что твоей маме пересадили семь хрящевых трансплантатов при полной реконструкции, говорит о высоком мастерстве хирурга. Скажи, пожалуйста, как долго после операции нужно было носить гипсовую повязку на носу и были ли тампоны внутри носа?
Dear Natalya, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! I completely understand the fear of general anaesthesia, and I am glad that my positive waking experience has provided some reassurance, because modern anaesthesia techniques are remarkably safe. Regarding the nasal splint and internal packing, the external nasal splint was worn for seven days and was removed during a follow-up appointment at the clinic, the removal was quick and not painful at all. As for internal nasal packing or tampons, practices vary between surgeons some use light internal splints or packing that is removed within the first one to two days after surgery, while others use dissolvable materials. My mother’s reconstruction with seven cartilage grafts indeed demonstrates exceptional surgical skill, and I would encourage your friend to explore revision options as well!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, thank you so much for writing this post. I have been contemplating rhinoplasty for years and your experience has been the most helpful account I have read. What I found most valuable was your honesty about the emotional aspect. You described the excitement of buying the plane tickets as the moment it all became real, and I think that psychological threshold is something many people struggle with. Your mother’s transformation after secondary rhinoplasty is truly remarkable. I have a question about scarring. Your post does not mention whether you had open or closed rhinoplasty. Could you share which technique was used and whether there are any visible scars?
Hi Miriam, thank you so much for your beautiful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I am truly honoured that you found it the most helpful account in your research! You make an excellent observation about the psychological threshold of buying the plane tickets, that moment truly transformed everything from abstract consideration into concrete commitment. Regarding scarring and surgical technique, there are two main approaches open rhinoplasty uses a small incision on the columella between the nostrils, which leaves a tiny scar that typically heals to become virtually invisible within a few months, and closed rhinoplasty places all incisions inside the nostrils with no visible external scars at all. In open rhinoplasty, the columellar scar is positioned in a natural crease where it becomes nearly undetectable over time. I would recommend discussing both techniques with your surgeon to determine which is most appropriate for your specific goals and anatomy!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, wat een eerlijk en moedig verhaal. Ik heb zelf drie jaar geleden een neuscorrectie laten doen in Nederland en hoewel het resultaat redelijk is, ben ik niet helemaal tevreden met de neusbrug die nog steeds een lichte bult heeft. Jouw verhaal over de secundaire rhinoplastiek van je moeder geeft me de moed om een revisieoperatie te overwegen. Het feit dat Arpanu Medical gecertificeerd is door het Turkse Ministerie van Volksgezondheid geeft vertrouwen. Wat ik graag zou willen weten is of de kliniek ook digitale beelden of simulaties gebruikt om het verwachte resultaat te tonen voordat je de operatie ondergaat.
Dear Pieter, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate you sharing your own rhinoplasty experience! I understand your frustration with the remaining bump on the nasal bridge after your surgery in the Netherlands, and I am glad that my mother’s story has given you the courage to consider revision. The certification of Arpanu Medical by the Turkish Ministry of Health is indeed an important trust factor for international patients. Regarding digital imaging and simulations, during my consultation the surgeon and I discussed the desired outcome primarily through verbal communication and reference images rather than digital simulation software. However, many modern clinics now offer advanced 3D imaging technology that can project a visualisation of the expected result and I would highly recommend asking about this option when you contact the clinic for your initial consultation!
Kind regards,
Marko
Hei Marko, takk for at du deler denne personlige opplevelsen. Som en mann som har vurdert neseoperasjon i flere år, setter jeg stor pris på din åpenhet. Det er fortsatt et stigma rundt menn og kosmetisk kirurgi, og innlegg som ditt bidrar til å bryte ned dette. Resultatene dine ser fantastiske ut, spesielt profilbildet tatt fem uker etter operasjonen. Det som bekymrer meg mest er rekonvalesenstiden, siden jeg har en travel jobb og ikke kan ta mange uker fri. Hvor mange dager etter operasjonen følte du at du kunne gå ut offentlig uten at det var tydelig at du hadde gjennomgått en operasjon?
Dear Eirik, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your openness about considering rhinoplasty! You are absolutely right that there is still a stigma around men and cosmetic surgery that needs to be broken, and I hope that by sharing my experience I can contribute to that change. Regarding how soon I felt comfortable going out in public, the nasal splint was removed on day seven, and after that the most visible signs of surgery were the residual swelling and some fading bruises. By approximately the end of the second week, the bruising had faded to a point where it was barely noticeable or could be easily concealed. By the third to fourth week, most people around me could not tell I had undergone surgery, as the remaining swelling was subtle enough to go unnoticed by others. So for a busy professional schedule, I would plan approximately two to three weeks before confidently returning to public-facing situations!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, what a courageous and helpful post. I had rhinoplasty five years ago and while the breathing improved significantly, the tip of my nose has gradually dropped over time. Reading about your mother’s secondary rhinoplasty and the successful reconstruction with cartilage grafts is exactly the encouragement I needed. I have consulted with two surgeons locally and both were hesitant to take on a revision case. The fact that your mother’s surgeon performed such a complex procedure with confidence gives me hope. My question is about the source of the cartilage grafts. Were they taken from the nasal septum, the ear, or the rib?
Dear Fiona, thank you so much for sharing your situation and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate it! I am sorry to hear about the gradual tip drooping after your rhinoplasty five years ago, and I completely understand the frustration of having surgeons hesitate to take on a revision case. My mother’s successful secondary rhinoplasty with cartilage grafts is proof that even complex revisions can produce excellent results with the right surgeon. Regarding the source of cartilage grafts, in revision rhinoplasty the cartilage can be harvested from three main locations the nasal septum, the ear (conchal cartilage), or the rib. In cases where significant structural rebuilding is needed, rib cartilage is often the preferred source because it provides the most abundant supply of strong, versatile grafting material. For less extensive revisions, ear cartilage can be an excellent option. The surgeon will determine the ideal source based on your specific needs during the consultation!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Szia Marko, köszönöm ezt az őszinte beszámolót. Nagyon tetszik, hogy nyíltan beszélsz a plasztikai sebészetről, mert sajnos a társadalomban még mindig tabu témának számít, különösen a férfiak körében. Az előtte-utána fotók nagyon meggyőzőek, az orrод természetesen néz ki, ami a legfontosabb egy jó orrplasztikánál. Engem leginkább az érdekel, hogy a műtét után milyen gyorsan tudtál visszatérni a sportoláshoz, mert rendszeresen edzek és nem szeretnék hosszú ideig kihagyni. Volt-e bármilyen korlátozás a fizikai aktivitásra vonatkozóan a felépülés során?
Dear Balázs, thank you so much for your kind comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your support! I completely agree that the stigma around cosmetic surgery, especially for men, is something that needs to change, and I am proud to contribute to that conversation through my openness. Regarding returning to sports and exercise after surgery, I was advised to avoid any strenuous physical activity, heavy lifting and exercises that raise blood pressure for at least four to six weeks after the procedure. Light walking was encouraged early on, even the evening after surgery, but gym workouts, running, and other intense exercises were strictly off limits during the initial healing period. Contact sports should be avoided for at least three months to protect the nose from any accidental impact. By the sixth week, I was able to gradually reintroduce moderate exercise, and by three months I was back to my full routine without restrictions!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, tak for dette fantastiske indlæg. Jeg har kæmpet med min næse i årevis, både æstetisk og funktionelt på grund af en skæv næseskillevæg. Din erfaring med at kombinere septoplastik og rhinoplastik er præcis det, jeg overvejer. Det er beroligende at høre, at hele processen med Arpanu Medical var så velorganiseret, fra transport mellem hotel og klinik til opfølgende undersøgelser. Jeg bor i København og har fået tilbud fra flere klinikker her, men priserne er meget høje. Kan du give et nogenlunde overslag over, hvad hele pakken kostede i Istanbul, inklusive hotel og transport?
Dear Jens, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate it! I completely understand the frustration of dealing with both aesthetic and functional nasal issues, and combining septoplasty with rhinoplasty is exactly the approach I took and would highly recommend. Regarding the cost, rhinoplasty in Istanbul typically ranges from approximately 3,000 to 5,000 US dollars for a primary procedure, which is considerably lower than prices at clinics in Copenhagen. Many medical tourism packages in Istanbul are structured as all-inclusive offerings that cover the surgical procedure, hospital stay, hotel accommodation, airport and clinic transfers, and follow-up appointments, which makes the overall financial planning very straightforward. However, I would strongly recommend contacting the Arpanu Medical team directly for a personalised quote based on your specific case, as prices can vary depending on the complexity of the combined procedure!
Kind regards,
Marko
Привет, Марко, огромное спасибо за этот пост. Я женщина, которая уже давно хочет сделать ринопластику, но боюсь общего наркоза. Ты описываешь, что у тебя уже был опыт с наркозом и что в этот раз ты проснулся в хорошем настроении и сразу начал общаться с персоналом. Это очень обнадёживает. Фотографии до и после просто потрясающие, результат выглядит очень естественно. Меня интересует, были ли у тебя синяки под глазами после операции и как быстро они прошли? Также хотела бы узнать, использовал ли хирург компьютерное моделирование для показа ожидаемого результата.
Dear Tatyana, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! I completely understand the fear of general anaesthesia, and I am glad that my positive experience with waking up cheerful has provided some reassurance. Regarding bruising under the eyes, yes, I did experience moderate bruising that appeared within the first 24 to 48 hours and peaked around the third to fourth day, it presented as dark discolouration under both eyes, which gradually faded through purple, green, and yellow stages over approximately ten to fourteen days before disappearing completely. As for computer modelling, during my consultation the discussion was primarily verbal, using reference images and the surgeon’s expertise to establish expectations. However, many clinics today do offer 3D simulation technology, and I would recommend asking about this option during your initial consultation!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, genuinely appreciate this post. The transparency about every stage of the process is incredibly helpful for someone like me who is on the fence about rhinoplasty. I have a deviated septum that has affected my breathing for years and I have always thought about combining the functional correction with an aesthetic improvement. Your description of recovery being individual really resonated because I have read wildly different accounts online. The fact that you were able to walk around the clinic corridors the same evening speaks to how well managed the post-operative care was. Were there any foods or drinks you were told to avoid during the recovery period?
Hi Tobby, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! You are absolutely right that the individual nature of recovery is one of the most important messages. The fact that I was walking around the corridors the same evening speaks to the quality of the post-operative care and I attribute that partly to the excellent anaesthesia management and partly to the encouraging nursing staff. Regarding foods and drinks to avoid during recovery, the general guidelines include avoiding very hot foods and beverages for the first few days, limiting salt intake as it contributes to fluid retention and swelling, steering clear of alcohol which can increase swelling and interfere with medications, and avoiding hard or crunchy foods that require forceful chewing. Staying well hydrated with water and eating nutrient-rich foods helped support the healing process tremendously!
Best regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, tack för detta modiga och informativa inlägg. Jag har alltid velat korrigera formen på min näsa men har aldrig haft modet att faktiskt boka en konsultation. Din berättelse om hur du och din mamma gick igenom detta tillsammans är verkligen rörande. Det faktum att din mamma levde med ett misslyckat resultat i femton år innan hon fick hjälp visar hur viktigt det är att hitta rätt kirurg. Jag har en fråga om den emotionella sidan av återhämtningen. Hur hanterade du de första dagarna när ansiktet var svullet och du inte kunde se det slutgiltiga resultatet ännu?
Dear Annika, thank you so much for your beautiful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your kind words! I am glad that the story of my mother and me going through this experience together resonated with you. Regarding the emotional side of recovery, the first few days when my face was swollen and bruised were emotionally challenging even though I knew the swelling was temporary, seeing a version of myself that looked so different from what I expected was initially unsettling. What helped me most was focusing on the small improvements I could see each day, trusting my surgeon’s assurance that the healing would reveal beautiful results, and keeping busy with light activities to avoid overanalysing my appearance. By the time the mask was removed on day seven, the excitement of seeing the emerging new shape completely replaced any emotional anxiety I had felt in the earlier days!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, heel erg bedankt voor dit open en eerlijke verhaal. Als iemand die al jaren twijfelt over een neuscorrectie, heeft jouw bericht me echt aan het denken gezet. Het verhaal van je moeder raakt me bijzonder, omdat mijn eigen zus een vergelijkbare ervaring heeft gehad met een mislukte eerste rhinoplastiek. Ze durft geen revisieoperatie te ondergaan uit angst dat het erger wordt. Het feit dat bij jouw moeder zeven kraakbeentransplantaten zijn gebruikt bij de reconstructie en dat het resultaat succesvol was, zou haar misschien kunnen overtuigen. Mag ik vragen of je moeder nu volledig tevreden is met het resultaat en of haar ademhaling ook verbeterd is?
Dear Hendrik, thank you so much for your heartfelt comment and for taking the time to read my post. I am truly sorry to hear about your sister’s experience with a failed rhinoplasty, and I understand her fear of revision making things worse. The success of my mother’s secondary rhinoplasty with seven cartilage grafts is proof that even the most complex cases can have excellent outcomes with the right surgeon. Regarding your question about my mother’s satisfaction, yes, she is absolutely thrilled with the result both the aesthetic appearance and her breathing have improved dramatically compared to what she endured for over fifteen years. The transformation has had a profound positive impact on her confidence and quality of life, and her only regret is not having done the revision sooner. I would be happy if you shared my story with your sister, sometimes hearing about another person’s success is the encouragement needed to take the next step!
Kind regards,
Marko
Marko, thank you for this incredibly detailed post. As someone who had a rhinoplasty eight years ago with disappointing results, I am now seriously considering revision surgery. The bridge of my nose still has a slight deviation and the tip is not as defined as I wanted. Your mother’s story of undergoing a secondary rhinoplasty with a complete reconstruction is very encouraging. Seven cartilage grafts is a significant amount of work and the fact that the surgeon was confident from the first consultation shows real expertise. I wanted to ask if you or your mother experienced any changes in the shape of the nose months or even years after the surgery, since I have read that the nose can continue to evolve.
Dear Brendan, thank you so much for sharing your situation and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! I completely understand your frustration with the bridge deviation and undefined tip after your rhinoplasty eight years ago. Regarding whether the nose can continue to change months or even years after surgery, the answer is yes the nose undergoes subtle changes for up to twelve months post-operatively as swelling resolves and tissues settle, and in rare cases, long-term changes can occur over several years due to factors such as cartilage memory, gravity, ageing, and the natural healing process. This is precisely why structural reinforcement techniques and cartilage grafts are so important in rhinoplasty, they help maintain the surgical result over the long term. The key is finding a revision surgeon experienced enough to anticipate and prevent long-term changes through proper structural support!
Best regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, tak for dette modige og ærlige indlæg. Som kvinde, der altid har ønsket at ændre formen på sin næse, er det utroligt opmuntrende at læse din oplevelse. Dine resultater ser naturlige og smukke ud, hvilket er præcis det, jeg ville ønske for mig selv. Det, der bekymrer mig mest, er ar og synlige tegn på operation. Du nævner ikke, om din rhinoplastik blev udført med åben eller lukket teknik. Kan du dele, hvilken metode der blev brugt, og om der er synlige ar? Det ville også være nyttigt at vide, om du brugte nogen specielle cremer eller produkter til at hjælpe med helingen.
Dear Signe, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your kind words! I understand your concern about scarring and visible signs of surgery. There are two main surgical approaches open rhinoplasty, which involves a small incision on the columella between the nostrils, and closed rhinoplasty, where all incisions are made inside the nostrils leaving absolutely no external scars. In the case of open rhinoplasty, the columellar scar is extremely small and typically heals to become virtually invisible over time. Regarding products to help with healing, many surgeons recommend keeping the area clean and moisturised, applying high SPF sunscreen to protect healing skin from sun damage, and some patients find that silicone-based scar treatments can help optimise scar healing. I would always advise following your specific surgeon’s post-operative care instructions for the best results!
Warm regards,
Marko
Марко, спасибо за этот очень полезный пост. Я мужчина, который много лет думает о ринопластике, но в моём окружении существует предубеждение против мужчин, делающих пластические операции. Твоя открытость помогает преодолеть этот стереотип. Результат твоей операции выглядит превосходно, нос смотрится абсолютно естественно. Меня особенно впечатлила история твоей мамы и её вторичная ринопластика с семью хрящевыми трансплантатами. Я хотел бы узнать, предоставляет ли клиника какие-либо гарантии на результат операции, и что происходит, если пациент не удовлетворён итогом?
Dear Aleksandr, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your openness about considering rhinoplasty despite the stigma! I completely understand the prejudice against men having cosmetic surgery, and I hope my experience helps normalise the idea that wanting to look your best is perfectly valid. Regarding guarantees on the surgical outcome, it is important to understand that no ethical surgeon can guarantee a specific result, as every patient’s anatomy and healing are unique. However, reputable clinics discuss realistic expectations thoroughly during consultation, provide comprehensive post-operative care, and if a patient is not satisfied, many surgeons offer follow-up consultations and in some cases revision procedures to address concerns. I would recommend discussing this directly with the Arpanu Medical team to understand their specific policies!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, I stumbled upon your post while researching rhinoplasty and I am so grateful. Your account is by far the most balanced and realistic I have found. I particularly appreciate that you did not sugar-coat the experience but also did not make it sound terrifying. The fact that your mother needed nausea medication after her more complex surgery while you were relatively comfortable shows how different individual experiences can be. I am considering rhinoplasty purely for aesthetic reasons and your results have convinced me that a natural-looking outcome is achievable. One practical question, were you able to fly home with the nose mask still on or did you wait until it was removed?
Dear Margot, thank you so much for your kind words and for taking the time to read my post, I am glad you found it balanced and realistic! That was exactly my intention to present the experience honestly, acknowledging both the positive aspects and the challenges. You make an excellent observation about the contrast between my comfortable recovery and my mother’s more challenging experience with nausea, which highlights how individual outcomes can vary. Regarding flying home, I was able to fly with the nasal splint still on, as the mask removal was scheduled for day seven and we planned accordingly. Flying with the splint is perfectly safe, although the cabin pressure changes can cause some additional discomfort and a feeling of increased nasal congestion. I would recommend using a saline nasal spray before the flight and staying well hydrated to minimise any discomfort!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Szia Marko, nagyon köszönöm ezt az őszinte és részletes beszámolót. Édesanyád története különösen megérintett, mert az én édesapám is átélt egy sikertelen orrműtétet évekkel ezelőtt és azóta nem mert újat csináltatni. Az a tény, hogy édesanyádnál hét porctranszplantátummal végeztek teljes rekonstrukciót és az eredmény sikeres volt, reményt ad nekünk is. Az Arpanu Medical által nyújtott teljes körű szolgáltatás, beleértve a szállodai szállást és a transzfert, nagyon megnyugtatóan hangzik. Szeretném megkérdezni, hogy a műtét után milyen gyakran kellett kontrollvizsgálatra járnod a klinikára, mielőtt hazautaztál?
Dear Bence, thank you so much for sharing your father’s story and for taking the time to read my post, it truly moved me! I completely understand the fear of trying again after an unsuccessful surgery, and I hope my mother’s story can inspire your father. Regarding follow-up visits before returning home, the standard schedule typically includes a check-up the day after surgery, regular monitoring during the hospital stay, and then a critical appointment on approximately day seven for the nasal splint removal and initial post-operative assessment. Some surgeons may also schedule an additional check-up a few days after the mask removal to ensure everything is healing properly before the patient travels home. The entire stay in Istanbul typically spans about seven to ten days, which allows sufficient time for the initial healing phase and all necessary medical appointments!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hei Marko, tusen takk for at du deler denne erfaringen med oss. Som kvinne som har hatt problemer med nesen sin i mange år, er det utrolig verdifullt å lese en så ærlig beretning. Jeg ble spesielt rørt av historien om din mor og hennes femten år lange kamp med et mislykket resultat. Det gir meg mot til å ta steget selv. Bildene før og etter er virkelig imponerende, og resultatet ser veldig naturlig ut. Jeg har et spørsmål om det emosjonelle aspektet. Var det vanskelig å se deg selv med et svulmet ansikt de første dagene, og hadde du noen øyeblikk der du angret beslutningen før du så det endelige resultatet?
Dear Ingrid, thank you so much for your heartfelt comment and for taking the time to read my post, your words truly touched me! I am glad that my mother’s fifteen-year journey resonated with you and has given you courage. Regarding the emotional aspect of seeing myself with a swollen face, I will be honest there were moments around the second and third day when the swelling and bruising were at their peak and the face I saw looked nothing like the result I had imagined. However, I never experienced true regret, because I had prepared myself mentally by understanding that swelling is temporary and completely normal. What helped most was reminding myself why I made this decision, celebrating each small improvement day by day, and trusting that the final result would be worth the patience. By the time the mask was removed, the excitement of seeing the new shape completely replaced any earlier anxiety!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Marko, I want to thank you sincerely for this post. I have been considering rhinoplasty for over a decade and reading your experience has finally given me the confidence to take the next step. What convinced me most was the combination of your honest description of recovery with the genuinely impressive results. The five-week profile view shows a beautifully refined nose that looks completely natural. Your point about cosmetic surgery not being a taboo topic is absolutely right and more people should speak openly about it. Did you find that people around you, friends, colleagues, noticed the change immediately, or was it subtle enough that some did not realise?
Dear Phoebe, thank you so much for your beautiful comment. I am truly honoured that my experience has given you the confidence to take the next step after over a decade of consideration! That is exactly why I chose to share something so personal. You make an excellent point about the importance of openly discussing cosmetic surgery, and I will always advocate for honesty about these choices. Regarding whether people noticed the change, the results of a well-performed rhinoplasty should look natural in my experience, close friends and family noticed that something looked different and that I appeared more confident, but many could not pinpoint exactly what had changed. Some people noticed immediately, while others only realised after I told them. The goal of great rhinoplasty is to enhance your natural features in a way that looks harmonious rather than obviously surgical!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hei Marko, takk for dette åpne og ærlige innlegget. Jeg har en neserygg med en markant kul som har plaget meg i mange år, og jeg vurderer seriøst å gjøre noe med det. Din opplevelse med Arpanu Medical i Istanbul høres veldig profesjonell ut, spesielt det faktum at alt fra transport til oppfølging var organisert. Det som imponerte meg mest var at du beskriver klinikken som et moderne kunstmuseum, noe som viser at de bryr seg om hele pasientopplevelsen. Jeg lurer på om du har noen råd for hvordan man best forbereder seg mentalt på en slik operasjon?
Dear Johan, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! You are right that a prominent bump on the nasal bridge is one of the most common concerns, and it is a correction that experienced surgeons handle regularly with excellent results. Regarding mental preparation, my most important advice would be to educate yourself thoroughly about the procedure and recovery process, because understanding what to expect eliminates much of the fear. Speak openly with your surgeon about all your concerns, set realistic expectations, and remember that some anxiety before surgery is completely normal. I also found it helpful to focus on the positive outcome rather than dwelling on the procedure itself, and having my mother by my side provided incredible emotional support. Surrounding yourself with supportive people and trusting your surgeon’s expertise will help you approach the experience with confidence!
Warm regards,
Marko
Привет, Марко, большое спасибо за этот пост. Я уже два года собираю информацию о ринопластике и твой рассказ, один из самых полезных, которые я нашла. Меня особенно впечатлило, что ты описал весь процесс пошагово, от консультации до фотографий через шесть недель после операции. Результат выглядит просто прекрасно, нос смотрится очень гармонично с твоим лицом. У меня вопрос о послеоперационном уходе: какие лекарства тебе назначили после операции и были ли среди них антибиотики? И ещё, как скоро после операции ты смог вернуться к обычной жизни и работе?
Dear Elena, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words! I am glad that the step-by-step documentation was helpful. Regarding post-operative medications, the prescribed regimen typically includes antibiotics to prevent infection, pain medication to manage discomfort, anti-inflammatory drugs to reduce swelling, and specific nasal care instructions including saline rinses. As for returning to normal life and work, light desk-based activities became comfortable within approximately two weeks, and by the third to fourth week I felt confident resuming most daily routines and going out in public. Full return to all activities including exercise took about four to six weeks. The recovery timeline is truly individual, but following the surgeon’s instructions diligently makes a significant positive difference!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, wat een eerlijk en informatief verhaal. Ik heb vijf jaar geleden een neuscorrectie laten doen in België en hoewel het resultaat functioneel goed was, de ademhaling is verbeterd, ben ik esthetisch niet helemaal tevreden. De neusbrug heeft nog steeds een lichte asymmetrie. Jouw beschrijving van het hele proces bij Arpanu Medical klinkt heel professioneel en georganiseerd. Het feit dat je moeder een succesvolle revisieoperatie heeft gehad met volledige reconstructie geeft mij de moed om ook een revisie te overwegen. Kun je me vertellen of de chirurg een specifieke voorkeur had voor open of gesloten rhinoplastiek en welke techniek bij jou is gebruikt?
Sear Maarten, thank you so much for your detailed comment and for taking the time to read my post. I am sorry to hear about the asymmetry after your rhinoplasty in Belgium, and I am glad my mother’s success has encouraged you! Both open and closed rhinoplasty have their advantages the open technique provides full visibility through a small incision on the columella, making it ideal for complex reshaping and precise graft placement, while the closed technique uses only internal incisions with no visible scar and generally faster recovery. For revision cases requiring structural correction like addressing asymmetry, many surgeons prefer the open approach because it provides better visualization of the altered anatomy and allows for more precise corrective work. The choice depends on the complexity of the required changes and the surgeon’s expertise. I would recommend discussing both options during your consultation!
Kind regards,
Marko
Hi Marko, this post is such a gift for anyone considering rhinoplasty. I have been researching surgeons for over a year and your experience in Istanbul has opened my eyes to the quality of medical tourism in Turkey. The fact that Arpanu Medical is certified by the Turkish Ministry of Health and has been a member of the Association of Turkish Travel Agencies since 2011 gives me real confidence. Your before and after photos are some of the most convincing I have seen because the result looks so natural. I would love to know if the surgeon gave you any specific skincare advice for the nose area during the healing process, such as avoiding certain products or using sunscreen.
Dear Charlotte, thank you so much for your kind comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your thorough approach! You are right that Arpanu Medical’s certifications provide genuine confidence for international patients. Regarding skincare advice during healing, the general recommendations include keeping the surgical area clean and gently moisturised, avoiding harsh skincare products, chemical peels, or exfoliants near the nose for several weeks, and most importantly being diligent about sun protection by applying high SPF sunscreen to the nose whenever going outdoors, as healing skin is much more sensitive to UV damage. Gentle, fragrance-free products are best during the healing phase, and your surgeon will provide specific product recommendations tailored to your skin type and procedure!
Best regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, tack för att du delar denna mycket personliga upplevelse. Jag har en skev nässkiljevägg som gör det svårt att andas, särskilt på natten, och har funderat på att kombinera en septumplastik med en estetisk näskorrigering. Din erfarenhet visar att detta är fullt möjligt med goda resultat. Det som imponerade mig mest var din beskrivning av hur du efter operationen var på gott humör och till och med filmade Instagram-stories. Det visar att narkosen hanterades mycket professionellt. Jag undrar om du hade några sömnproblem efter operationen på grund av svullnaden och att du var tvungen att sova på ryggen?
Dear Erik, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate it! Combining septoplasty with rhinoplasty is an excellent approach that I wholeheartedly recommend. Regarding sleep problems after surgery, I will be honest sleeping was challenging during the first week because you need to sleep on your back with your head elevated, the nasal congestion makes you breathe through your mouth, and the splint can feel uncomfortable. The combination of these factors did affect my sleep quality for the first few nights, and I found myself waking up more frequently than usual. However, by the second week sleeping became progressively easier as the swelling reduced and I adapted to the position, and after the mask removal on day seven there was a noticeable improvement in sleep comfort!
Warm regards,
Marko
Szia Marko, nagyon köszönöm ezt a bátran őszinte bejegyzést. Nőként különösen értékelem, hogy egy férfi ilyen nyíltan beszél a plasztikai sebészetről, mert ez segít lebontani a társadalmi tabut. Az eredményed gyönyörű és teljesen természetesnek tűnik. Engem az érdekel leginkább, hogy az édesanyád hogyan élte meg érzelmileg a második műtétet, figyelembe véve, hogy az első rossz tapasztalat után tizenöt évig nem mert újra megoperáltatni magát. Volt-e neki különleges pszichológiai felkészítése a műtét előtt, vagy a sebész bizalma és optimizmusa elegendő volt a félelmeinek leküzdéséhez?
Dear Dorottya, thank you so much for your kind and thoughtful comment. I truly appreciate you taking the time to read my post! I am glad that you value the openness of a man discussing cosmetic surgery. Regarding how my mother experienced the second surgery emotionally, it was understandably very difficult, the trauma of her first unsuccessful rhinoplasty fifteen years earlier had created deep fear about going through the process again. What ultimately helped was the surgeon’s remarkable combination of patience, honesty, and genuine optimism during the consultation, he acknowledged the complexity without minimising it, but presented a clear surgical plan with confidence. There was no specific psychological preparation offered, but having me alongside her going through the same procedure on the same day provided enormous emotional comfort and solidarity that was just as important as the surgeon’s reassurance!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Marko, tremendous post. I particularly valued your practical observation about being an obedient patient who asks a thousand sub-questions. That is exactly the kind of approach anyone should take when considering rhinoplasty. The more informed you are, the better your experience will be. Your results are excellent and the fact that you are clearly happy with the outcome after several weeks makes me feel optimistic about my own potential procedure. I have been putting off rhinoplasty for years due to work commitments and recovery concerns. Could you share roughly how many days of complete rest you needed before you could comfortably work from home, even if not going out in public?
Dear Rupert, thank you so much for your kind comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your words about the importance of being an informed patient! You are absolutely right that asking questions is one of the best things you can do when considering rhinoplasty. Regarding complete rest before comfortable work-from-home activity, the first three to four days were truly dedicated to rest with minimal activity beyond short walks. By approximately day five to seven, I felt well enough to handle light tasks and screen time, though I tired more easily. After the mask removal around day seven, working from home became quite comfortable, and by the end of the second week I was functioning nearly normally for desk-based work. I would suggest planning approximately seven to ten days of truly restful recovery before expecting to be productively working from home!
Best regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, mange tak for dette ærlige og informative indlæg. Jeg har en næse med en tydelig bule på næseryggen, som har generet mig i mange år. Din oplevelse har givet mig modet til at tage det næste skridt og booke en konsultation. Det, jeg sætter mest pris på ved dit indlæg, er de detaljerede billeder fra forskellige stadier af helingsprocessen. At se forandringen fra tre timer efter operationen til seks uger giver et meget realistisk billede af, hvad man kan forvente. Jeg har et spørgsmål om kost efter operationen. Du nævner, at du spiste godt efter et par timer. Var der nogen fødevarer, du skulle undgå?
Dear Mads, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post. I am glad the progression photos were particularly valuable! You are right that the visual documentation provides a transparent picture that helps set proper expectations. Regarding food after surgery, I started with softer foods that were easy to chew and gradually returned to my normal diet within a day or two. The general dietary advice included avoiding very hot foods and drinks for the first few days, limiting salt intake as it can increase swelling, staying away from alcohol during recovery and avoiding hard or crunchy foods that require forceful chewing. Staying well hydrated and eating nutrient-rich foods with plenty of vitamins and protein helped support the healing process, and overall the dietary restrictions were minimal and very manageable!
Kind regards,
Marko
Марко, спасибо за этот откровенный и подробный пост. Я мужчина, который давно страдает от кривой носовой перегородки и уже несколько лет подумываю о ринопластике. Твой опыт в Стамбуле звучит очень профессионально, особенно то, что перед операцией проводятся анализы крови и диагностика сердца и лёгких. Это говорит о серьёзном подходе к безопасности пациента. Меня особенно впечатлил твой позитивный настрой сразу после пробуждения от наркоза. Хотел бы спросить, через какое время после операции ты смог свободно дышать через нос, учитывая отёк и заложенность?
Hello Dmitry, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your openness about your situation! I can confirm that the thorough pre-operative process reflects a very serious approach to patient safety. Regarding how long it took to breathe freely through my nose, the first week was quite restricted due to internal swelling, the splint, and post-surgical congestion, I primarily breathed through my mouth. The nasal breathing gradually improved from the second week onward as the swelling subsided, and by approximately four to six weeks I noticed a dramatic improvement. The full benefit continued developing over the following months as the internal healing progressed. I can honestly say that the improvement in breathing quality has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the entire experience!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hallo Marko, wat een mooi en eerlijk verhaal. Als vrouw die al jarenlang ontevreden is over de vorm van haar neus, heeft jouw bericht me echt geïnspireerd om actie te ondernemen. Het feit dat je zo open bent over je motivatie, dat je gewoon een mooiere neus wilde, is verfrissend. Te veel mensen voelen zich verplicht om cosmetische chirurgie te rechtvaardigen met medische redenen, terwijl er niets mis is met het willen verbeteren van je uiterlijk. Jouw resultaat ziet er prachtig en heel natuurlijk uit. Mijn vraag is of je na de operatie speciale instructies hebt gekregen over gezichtsverzorging, zoals het vermijden van bepaalde producten op het neusgebied tijdens de genezing.
Dear Saskia, thank you so much for your honest comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your kind words! I completely agree that there is nothing wrong with wanting to improve your appearance and I am glad you found my openness about my purely aesthetic motivation refreshing. Regarding skincare instructions after surgery, the general post-operative advice includes keeping the nose area clean and gently moisturised, avoiding any harsh or abrasive skincare products near the surgical site for several weeks, being very careful with sun exposure by applying high SPF sunscreen whenever going outdoors, and avoiding any products that contain strong active ingredients like retinol or glycolic acid near the nose until fully healed. Your surgeon will provide detailed personalised instructions about which products to avoid and when you can safely return to your normal skincare routine!
Warm regards,
Marko
Hello Marko, I found your post at exactly the right time. I had a rhinoplasty two years ago and unfortunately the result is not what I expected. The tip has become pinched and slightly asymmetric. Your mother’s experience with secondary rhinoplasty has given me genuine hope because her case sounds even more complex than mine, with the complete reconstruction and seven cartilage grafts. I have been afraid to consider revision surgery because every surgeon I have consulted has warned me about the increased risks. Did your mother’s surgeon discuss the specific risks of secondary rhinoplasty during the consultation, and how did he manage her expectations?
Dear Lydia, thank you so much for sharing your situation and for taking the time to read my post. I am truly sorry to hear about the pinched and asymmetric tip from your rhinoplasty two years ago! My mother’s experience proves that even complex revision cases can have excellent outcomes with the right surgeon. Regarding the risks of secondary rhinoplasty, yes, our surgeon discussed them thoroughly during the consultation, he explained that revision surgery carries higher risks than primary rhinoplasty due to scar tissue, altered anatomy, potentially limited cartilage availability and more unpredictable healing patterns. However, he also emphasised that with proper technique, experience, and realistic expectations, the vast majority of revision patients achieve significantly improved results. He managed my mother’s expectations by being honest about what was achievable while maintaining the optimism that gave her confidence to proceed. I would encourage you to find a surgeon who specialises in revision cases!
Warmest regards,
Marko
Hej Marko, fantastiskt och modigt inlägg. Som man som har funderat på näsplastik i många år uppskattar jag verkligen din öppenhet. Det finns fortfarande en stigma kring män och kosmetisk kirurgi som behöver brytas. Ditt resultat ser utmärkt ut och näsan passar harmoniskt med ditt ansikte. Det som imponerade mig mest var din beskrivning av kirurgens tålamod och optimism under konsultationen. Att hitta en kirurg som verkligen lyssnar på dina önskemål är avgörande. Jag har en fråga om restiden. Hur länge stannade du i Istanbul totalt, från ankomst till avresa, och kände du dig redo att flyga hem vid den tidpunkten?
Dear Gunnar, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your kind words! You are absolutely right that finding a surgeon who truly listens to your wishes is one of the most important aspects of the rhinoplasty journey. Regarding the total duration of stay in Istanbul, the entire process from arrival to departure typically spans approximately seven to ten days, this includes the initial consultation, any pre-operative tests, the surgery day, recovery at the hotel, follow-up appointments and the splint removal around day seven. By the time I departed, I felt well enough to travel comfortably, though flying with the splint on does cause some additional nasal congestion due to cabin pressure changes. I would recommend planning for at least eight to ten days to allow sufficient time for all appointments and to feel confident about travelling home!
Warm regards,
Marko
Szia Marko, nagyon köszönöm ezt a személyes és bátran őszinte bejegyzést. Édesanyád története különösen meghatott, mert én is átéltem egy hasonló helyzetet, amikor a legjobb barátnőm rossz orrműtéten esett át és azóta nem mer újra megpróbálni. Az a tény, hogy édesanyád sikeres másodlagos orrplasztikán esett át hét porctranszplantátummal, reményt adhat mindenkinek, aki hasonló helyzetben van. A te eredményed is csodálatos, az öthetes profilfotó egy gyönyörű és természetes orrformát mutat. Szeretném megkérdezni, volt-e bármilyen korlátozás a napfénynek való kitettségre vonatkozóan a műtét utáni hetekben?
Dear Ildikó, thank you so much for sharing your friend’s story and for taking the time to read my post, your words truly touched me! I completely understand the fear of trying again after a bad experience, and I hope that my mother’s successful story can inspire your friend. Regarding sun exposure after surgery, yes, this is an important part of post-operative care, most surgeons recommend avoiding direct sunlight on the nose and using high SPF sunscreen diligently for at least three to six months after the procedure, as the healing skin is much more sensitive to UV damage and sun exposure can cause increased swelling, pigmentation changes, and potentially affect the healing process. Wearing a wide-brimmed hat when outdoors during peak sun hours is also strongly advised. These precautions help protect the surgical result and ensure the best possible long-term aesthetic outcome!
Warm regards,
Marko
Marko, thank you for this honest and detailed account of your rhinoplasty experience. What I appreciate most is that you presented both perspectives, your own relatively smooth recovery and your mother’s more challenging one, which gives readers a balanced understanding of what to expect. The fact that recovery is truly individual and depends on the complexity of the procedure is an important message. Your results at five and six weeks are genuinely impressive. I have one question that has been on my mind. After the nose mask was removed on day seven, did the nose feel fragile or vulnerable, and were you given any special instructions about protecting it from accidental bumps in the weeks that followed?
Dear Tristan, thank you so much for your thoughtful comment and for taking the time to read my post, I truly appreciate your kind words! You make an excellent point about the balanced perspective I aimed to provide by sharing both my experience and my mother’s understanding that recovery is individual and depends on the complexity of the procedure is indeed a crucial message. Regarding your question about the nose feeling fragile after the mask removal on day seven, yes, there is definitely a heightened awareness and sense of vulnerability in the first few weeks after the splint comes off the nose does feel delicate and somewhat exposed. I was given specific instructions about being very careful to avoid any accidental bumps, not touching or pressing the nose, sleeping on my back, and being cautious in crowded spaces. This protective mindset naturally relaxes over the following weeks as the nose strengthens and the healing progresses!
Best regards,
Marko
Hei Marko, tusen takk for dette ærlige og detaljerte innlegget. Som en mann som har slitt med formen på nesen min i mange år, har din erfaring gitt meg mot til å virkelig vurdere en neseoperasjon. Det som imponerer meg mest er den profesjonelle tilnærmingen til hele prosessen, fra den første konsultasjonen der kirurgen lyttet til alle ønskene dine, til blodprøvene og hjerte- og lungediagnostikken før operasjonen. Resultatene dine ser fantastiske ut og er akkurat den typen naturlig utseende jeg ville ønske for meg selv. Jeg lurer på om du fikk noen instruksjoner om å unngå visse aktiviteter som svømming eller dykking i ukene etter operasjonen.
Hello Knut, thank you so much for your thoughtful and detailed comment and for taking the time to read my post. I truly appreciate your kind words! I am glad that the professional approach from the initial consultation through to the pre-operative diagnostics gave you confidence, as it was truly one of the things that impressed me most about the entire experience. You are right that my results reflect the kind of natural outcome that makes rhinoplasty worthwhile. Regarding restrictions on activities like swimming or diving after surgery, yes, these were specifically mentioned in the post-operative instructions swimming pools, saunas, and hot tubs should be avoided for at least four to six weeks after surgery due to the risk of infection and the effects of water pressure and chlorine on the healing tissues. Diving is restricted for even longer, typically three months or more, because the pressure changes can be harmful to the healing nasal structures. Following these guidelines carefully is essential for protecting the beautiful results of your surgery!
Warm regards,
Marko