A Complete Guide for First-Time Patients
Primer rhinoplasty refers to the first-time nose surgery performed on patients who have never had a rhinoplasty before. It is one of the most common cosmetic surgeries worldwide, addressing both aesthetic and functional concerns such as a dorsal hump, nasal tip drooping, or breathing difficulties. Op. Dr. Ali Cihan Yiğiter, a highly experienced facial plastic surgeon from Antalya, has performed over 3,000 rhinoplasty surgeries with more than 15 years of expertise. This guide is designed especially for patients from the UK and Europe who are considering rhinoplasty in Turkey.
What Is Primer Rhinoplasty?
“Primer” means that the surgery is carried out on a nose that has never been operated on before. Compared to revision rhinoplasty, primer rhinoplasty usually has higher success rates and faster recovery. It can correct aesthetic concerns such as a hump or wide nasal bridge, as well as functional issues like septum deviation and breathing problems.
Am I a Good Candidate for Rhinoplasty?
- Adults whose facial growth is complete (usually 16+ for women, 18+ for men)
- Those who are unhappy with the shape or function of their nose (crookedness, hump, wide tip, breathing problems)
- Patients with realistic expectations about the results
- Non-smokers or those willing to quit smoking before and after surgery
- Individuals in good overall health
In some cases, limited procedures such as tip plasty are enough, while others may benefit from septoplasty or septorhinoplasty if breathing problems are present.
What Should I Know Before Surgery?
- Set realistic goals: Share what bothers you most about your nose during the consultation.
- Choose an experienced surgeon: With over 15 years of experience, Dr. Ali Cihan Yiğiter ensures both functional and aesthetic success.
- Understand the techniques: Closed rhinoplasty offers minimal scarring, while ultrasonic rhinoplasty provides less bruising.
- Plan your stay in Turkey: Most UK and European patients stay for 7–10 days.
- Prepare for recovery: Returning to work is possible within 7–10 days, but full healing takes 6–12 months.
Techniques Used in Primer Rhinoplasty
| Technique | Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|---|
| Closed Rhinoplasty | No visible scar, faster healing | More limited surgical view |
| Ultrasonic Rhinoplasty | Less bruising, precise bone reshaping | Slightly longer surgery time |
| Septorhinoplasty | Corrects both breathing and cosmetic issues | Recovery may take longer |
| Tip Plasty | Focuses only on nasal tip, faster recovery | Does not correct dorsal hump |
Your Rhinoplasty Journey in Turkey
- Online Consultation: Share photos for initial assessment.
- Arrival in Turkey: Private airport transfer to your hotel or clinic.
- First Examination: Face analysis and surgical planning.
- Surgery: Carried out under general anaesthesia, lasting 2–3 hours.
- Hospital Stay: Usually one night, if needed.
- Follow-ups: Stitches and splints removed within 5–7 days.
- Return Home: Patients can fly back safely after 7–10 days. Ongoing follow-up is possible via WhatsApp.
Recovery Timeline
| Timeline | What to Expect |
|---|---|
| 1st Week | Swelling, mild bruising, nasal splint in place |
| 2–3 Weeks | Bruising fades, return to work and social life |
| 1–3 Months | Nasal shape becomes more defined |
| 6–12 Months | Final result with stable nasal shape |
Why Do UK & European Patients Choose Turkey for Rhinoplasty?
- Highly experienced surgeons with international memberships (EAFPS, Turkish Facial Plastic Surgery Association)
- Over 3,000 successful rhinoplasty operations
- Modern, internationally accredited hospitals
- Affordable treatment compared to the UK & EU
- Opportunity to combine treatment with a holiday in Antalya or Izmir





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