A nose job heals in stages, and knowing them in advance makes the first weeks far less worrying. What you see when the splint comes off is not the final result. In this guide New City Clinic walks through recovery from the first day to the first year.
The first week
You wake with a splint on the nose and often soft silicone splints inside; breathing through the nose is limited. Bruising and swelling around the eyes peak on the second or third day and then fade. Sleep with your head raised, apply cold compresses around the eyes and avoid blowing your nose. Pain is usually mild; a blocked feeling is more typical. The splint is removed on day 7–10.
Weeks two to six
When the splint comes off, the nose looks swollen and the tip may seem raised; this is expected. Most patients fly home after this check-up and feel comfortable in public within two weeks. Nasal rinses keep the inside clean. Avoid sun exposure, steam rooms and anything that could knock the nose. Glasses should not rest on the bridge until your surgeon allows it, usually after about six weeks.
Months three to twelve
About two thirds of the swelling has gone by three months, and the profile is close to final. The tip takes longest: in thicker skin, definition continues to improve for a year or more. Temporary numbness and stiffness of the tip are normal. A revision, if ever needed, is not considered until healing is complete, because the nose keeps changing during this time.
Rhinoplasty: cost in Turkey and what is included
The price depends on the technique, the extent of the procedure, the hospital, the length of stay and any procedures planned together, which is why a single figure quoted without an examination or photo assessment is misleading. After a physician has reviewed your case, New City Clinic sends you an itemised written quote. It lists hospital, surgeon and anaesthesia fees, pre-operative tests, medication, any compression garment or support bra, accommodation, airport–hotel–hospital transfers and interpreting separately; flights are not included unless stated. When comparing clinics in Istanbul, look beyond the price: check that the hospital is licensed by the Ministry of Health, what the surgeon specialises in, and how follow-up is handled once you are back home.
Rhinoplasty with New City Clinic
New City Clinic is an authorised health tourism intermediary registered with the Turkish Ministry of Health and HealthTürkiye. When you contact New City Clinic about rhinoplasty, a physician first reviews your photos and medical information, and you then receive a written treatment plan with an itemised quote. Once you arrive in Istanbul, the New City Clinic team organises your airport welcome, accommodation, hospital appointments and interpreting. Your procedure is performed by a specialist physician at a Ministry of Health approved partner hospital, and follow-up continues after you return home.
Recovery timeline
Days 1–3
Swelling and bruising peak; head raised, cold compresses, rest.
Day 7–10
Splint and any stitches removed; most patients fly home.
Weeks 4–6
Light sport resumes; glasses and contact sports only with approval.
Month 12
The tip has refined and the final shape is established.
Accommodation and transfers
On request, New City Clinic organises your airport–hotel–hospital transfers and your stay at partner hotels close to the hospital. The same can be arranged for a companion; details are set out in writing in your quote.
Aftercare
Medication and check-ups
Take the medication your physician prescribes as directed and attend your planned check-ups.
Smoking and alcohol
Both slow healing; avoid them before and after the procedure for the period your physician advises.
Movement and rest
Short walks support circulation; wait for your physician’s approval before strenuous exercise or heavy lifting.
When to get in touch
Contact your New City Clinic coordinator straight away in case of high fever, increasing pain, redness or anything unexpected.
Frequently asked questions
When can I blow my nose?
Usually after two to three weeks, gently and with your surgeon’s agreement. Until then, saline rinses do the job.
When can I wear glasses?
Typically after about six weeks. In the meantime glasses can be taped to the forehead or contact lenses used.
Why does my nose look bigger after surgery?
Swelling makes the nose look wider and the tip higher at first. This settles gradually and is not the final appearance.
Deciding on rhinoplasty is a confident step when it is taken with the right information and the right team. You can book a free consultation with the New City Clinic team for your questions.
This article is for general information; consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment.
