Who Should Perform Rhinoplasty? ENT vs Plastic Surgeon

Rhinoplasty (nose surgery) is one of the most commonly performed aesthetic procedures today. However, it is not simply a matter of making the nose smaller or larger. A successful rhinoplasty considers the nasal tip, dorsum, hump, the nose-lip relationship, and overall facial proportions - while protecting or improving nasal breathing.

What should the main goal of rhinoplasty be?

  • Create a natural-looking nose that fits your face
  • Improve breathing if there is nasal obstruction
  • Avoid causing new breathing problems if there was no obstruction before surgery

Modern rhinoplasty aims for individualized planning rather than one-size-fits-all results. The best outcomes are both aesthetic and functional.

Learn more: https://timurbatmaz.com.tr/en/our-services/rhinoplasty   

Is rhinoplasty always purely cosmetic?

No. In many patients, rhinoplasty can be planned to correct nasal breathing problems as well. Conditions such as a marked septal deviation or dorsal deviation may affect both appearance and airflow. In appropriate candidates, additional nasal issues can be addressed during the same procedure.

  • Inferior turbinate hypertrophy (enlarged nasal turbinates)
  • Concha bullosa
  • Nasal polyps or other coexisting intranasal problems

In short: rhinoplasty is often a balance between aesthetics and function.

ENT vs Plastic Surgeon: what is the right answer?

Both ENT (Otolaryngology) specialists and Plastic Surgeons perform rhinoplasty in Türkiye and worldwide. The key factor is not the title alone, but the surgeon's approach, experience, and follow-up system. Consider these criteria:

1) Rhinoplasty experience and case variety

  • How often does the surgeon perform rhinoplasty?
  • How do they approach complex noses (crooked nose, trauma, breathing problems, revision cases)?

2) Aesthetic philosophy and “natural result” concept

  • Do they perform facial analysis?
  • How do they define a result that “fits your face”?

3) Focus on nasal breathing (function)

  • Do they examine the inside of the nose and evaluate airflow?
  • Is “preserving or improving breathing” an explicit planning goal?

4) Communication and follow-up plan

  • How often will you be followed during healing?
  • How do they manage early swelling or asymmetry?

Quick takeaway: the right surgeon = the right analysis + the right plan + the right follow-up.

8 questions worth asking at your consultation

  1. How will you achieve a natural look for my facial features?
  2. Do I have a breathing problem? If yes, can it be corrected in the same surgery?
  3. Do you recommend open or closed rhinoplasty for me, and why?
  4. How do you manage tip swelling and the healing process?
  5. What is a realistic timeline for 1 week, 1 month, 3 months, and 1 year?
  6. In which situations does revision become a consideration?
  7. What is your protocol for splints, taping, and internal support?
  8. How will follow-ups work, and how reachable is your team if I have concerns?

After surgery: a realistic summary

  • Surgery time is commonly around 2-3 hours, depending on case complexity.
  • Bruising and swelling vary from patient to patient. They are usually most noticeable in the first days and improve over time.
  • Temporary internal support materials may be used, and an external splint/cast is often applied.
  • As swelling decreases, the nasal shape becomes clearer; tip definition typically takes longer to settle.

Dealing with other people's comments

It is common to receive many opinions after surgery. The healthiest approach is to keep your morale steady, share any concerns directly with your surgeon, and stick to scheduled follow-ups during the healing period.

Key precautions after rhinoplasty

  • Keep the splint/cast dry as instructed
  • Avoid excessive heat and heavy sweating in the early phase
  • Limit heavy exercise and strenuous activity for the first weeks
  • Protect your nose when changing tight-collar clothing
  • Reduce the risk of trauma or hard contact for the first 6-8 weeks
  • Limit sun and heat exposure
  • Follow your surgeon's guidance on glasses use and timing

Frequently Asked Questions

Will breathing improve after rhinoplasty?

If the cause of obstruction is structural - such as septal deviation, turbinate hypertrophy, or nasal valve issues - functional corrections can often be planned in the same operation for suitable patients. The decision is made after a full examination.

Should an ENT specialist or a plastic surgeon perform rhinoplasty?

Specialty alone is not the deciding factor. What matters most is rhinoplasty experience, aesthetic planning, a clear strategy to protect or improve breathing, and a reliable post-operative follow-up system.

When can I return to social life?

Many patients return to daily routines within 7-10 days. Swelling varies by individual; if you have an important event, it is best to plan timing together with your surgeon.


Contact: https://timurbatmaz.com.tr/iletisim

Rhinoplasty with Ultrasonic Piezo: https://timurbatmaz.com.tr/en/our-services/ultrasonic-piezo-rhinoplasty