What should be considered before rhinoplasty?
Nose surgery — rhinoplasty — is a comprehensive process that requires the right steps to be taken not only on the operating table but also before the surgery for a successful outcome. A small oversight during the preparation phase can prolong the healing process, increase the risk of complications, and negatively affect the final result.
Based on his observations in over 500 rhinoplasty cases, Op. Dr. Selçuk Yüce has compiled the most frequently asked questions and critical points to consider during the preparation process below.
1. Use of Medications and Supplements: Which Ones Should Be Discontinued
Before surgery, some medications and nutritional supplements can thin the blood, leading to excessive bleeding during or after surgery. You may need to stop taking the following at least 10-14 days before surgery without your surgeon's approval:
Medications that Absolutely Must Be Reported
• Aspirin and aspirin-containing preparations
• Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) such as ibuprofen and naproxen
• Blood thinners (anticoagulants) such as warfarin and heparin
• Certain antidepressants and psychiatric medications
• Hormone-containing preparations and birth control pills
Nutritional Supplements Recommended to be Discontinued
• Vitamin E (blood-thinning effect)
• Omega-3 fatty acids / fish oil
• Garlic, ginger, and ginkgo biloba supplements
• St. John's Wort
Only your surgeon or anesthesiologist can determine which medications you should stop or which you can continue taking. Do not stop or start any medication on your own.
2. Smoking and Alcohol: Two Risk Factors That Directly Affect Recovery
Cigarette
The nicotine and carbon monoxide in cigarettes constrict blood vessels, reducing the amount of oxygen that reaches the tissues. This can cause:
• It significantly slows down wound healing.
• It impairs skin nutrition and increases the risk of necrosis (tissue death).
• Increases the likelihood of infection.
• It negatively affects the final aesthetic result.
General recommendation: Quit smoking at least 3-4 weeks before surgery and avoid using cigarettes during the recovery period (at least 3-4 weeks afterward).
Alcohol
Alcohol thins the blood and can interact with anesthetic drugs. It is recommended to stop drinking alcohol at least one week before surgery.
3. Nutrition and Hydration: Preparing the Body for Surgery
In surgeries requiring general anesthesia or sedation, food and drink intake must be stopped a certain period before the operation to prevent the risk of stomach contents entering the lungs (aspiration).
• Solid foods and dairy products: Should be stopped at least 8 hours before surgery.
• Water and clear liquids: Generally, small amounts can be consumed up to 2-4 hours before surgery.
• Chewing gum, candy, mint: Should not be used on the morning of surgery.
These times may vary depending on the patient's condition and the anesthesia protocol. It is essential to follow the specific instructions of your surgeon and the anesthesia team.
In the weeks leading up to surgery, a balanced diet rich in protein supports the healing capacity of tissues. Avoiding highly processed foods and high-salt foods also helps control edema.
4. Pre-operative Health Tests and Assessments
A standard series of tests is performed before rhinoplasty. These tests are done both to ensure a safe anesthesia process and to identify potential risks in advance.
• Complete blood count
• Coagulation tests (PT, aPTT)
• Biochemistry panel (kidney, liver functions)
• ECG (for patients where deemed necessary)
• Pregnancy test (for female patients)
• Chest X-ray if deemed necessary.
In addition, photography, and in some cases CT imaging or rhinomanometry (breathing measurement), may be requested to evaluate the nasal passages.
5. Practical Preparations for the Day of Surgery and After
For the Day of Surgery
• Choose comfortable, front-opening (no-collar) clothing — so you don't have to pull the garment over your head.
• Do not wear makeup, nail polish, jewelry, or accessories.
• Prepare eyeglasses for those who wear contact lenses.
• Arrange for someone to accompany you home from the surgery — do not drive after surgery.
Home Preparation
• Prepare an extra pillow to keep your head elevated during the first few days after surgery.
• Provide light meals that are easy to prepare.
• Obtain any medications you may need (such as those recommended by your surgeon) in advance.
• Put your work and social responsibilities on hold for the first week.
Pre-operative consultation process with Op. Dr. Selçuk Yüce.
Each stage of the preparation process varies from patient to patient. With extensive experience in over 500 rhinoplasty cases, Op. Dr. Selçuk Yüce provides detailed, personalized pre-operative guidance for each patient.
During the consultation meeting:
• Your medical history and medications you are currently taking will be thoroughly reviewed.
• Which tests need to be done are determined.
• You will receive personalized preparation instructions in writing.
• All your questions will be answered.
Surgeries are performed at Ankara Memorial and Medicana hospitals. Clinic: Çankaya Maidan Business and Life Center, Ankara.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. How many days before rhinoplasty should aspirin be discontinued?
Aspirin and other blood thinners should generally be discontinued at least 10-14 days before surgery. However, this timeframe is determined by your surgeon and, if applicable, your cardiologist; do not stop taking your medications on your own.
2. Does smoking before rhinoplasty really affect the outcome?
Yes, it has direct effects. Smoking slows healing, creates a breeding ground for infection and tissue nutrition problems, and can negatively impact the aesthetic outcome. Quitting at least 3-4 weeks beforehand is standard recommendation.
3. Do I need to come on an empty stomach the morning of the surgery?
Yes. In all surgeries requiring general anesthesia or sedation, solid food should not be consumed for at least 8 hours before the operation to prevent the risk of aspiration. Follow your surgeon's instructions for clear liquids.
4. Which supplements should be discontinued before rhinoplasty?
Vitamin E, omega-3 (fish oil), garlic, ginger, and ginkgo biloba supplements may have a blood-thinning effect, so it is recommended to discontinue them at least 10-14 days before surgery. Be sure to discuss which supplements to stop with your surgeon.
5. Is psychological preparation necessary before surgery?
Pre-operative mental preparation is just as important as physical preparation. Clarifying whether your expectations are realistic, asking all the questions you may have, and choosing a surgeon you trust directly affect your psychological well-being before surgery. Healthy mental preparation also positively influences the recovery process.
