Letdown Rhinoplasty is one of the nose aesthetic surgeries, specifically applied to correct a slightly humped nasal structure. In this technique, without intervening with the nasal bridge bone and cartilage structure, the nasal bridge is moved downward by removing bone or cartilage from the side walls of the nose. This method aims to achieve an aesthetic appearance by preserving the natural structure of the nasal bridge.
Letdown rhinoplasty provides the surgeon with operational freedom while preventing potential visual distortions that may occur during the shaping of the nasal roof. In addition to offering a quick recovery process, it also improves nasal functions while maintaining naturalness.
Turkey's Rhinoplasty Doctor
Prof. Dr. Murat Songu
Revision Rhinoplasty Specialist
Born in İzmir in 1976, Prof. Dr. Murat Songu entered İzmir Atatürk High School and then, in 1994, started at Ege University Faculty of Medicine. He completed his specialty training in Ear, Nose, and Throat Diseases at Celal Bayar University. In 2005, he worked on rhinology and otologic surgery in Bordeaux, France, at St. Augustin Clinic with Dr. Guy Lacher and at Bordeaux University with Prof. Vincent Darrouzet.
| Procedure Name | Letdown Rhinoplasty |
| Definition | A preservation rhinoplasty technique that lowers the nasal dorsum as a single unit while preserving the natural dorsal anatomy instead of directly removing the dorsal hump. |
| Primary Purpose | To reduce the nasal hump while maintaining the natural structure and appearance of the nasal bridge. |
| Ideal Candidates | Individuals with a mild to moderate dorsal hump, appropriate nasal anatomy, good general health, and realistic expectations. |
| Not Suitable For | Patients with severe nasal deformities, major traumatic changes, significant asymmetry requiring reconstruction, or anatomy unsuitable for preservation techniques. |
| Anesthesia | Usually performed under general anesthesia; selected cases may be suitable for intravenous sedation with local anesthesia. |
| Surgical Technique | The nasal bridge is lowered as a single unit through controlled bone and septal modifications while preserving the dorsal roof whenever possible. |
| Surgical Approach | May be performed using either an open or closed (endonasal) rhinoplasty approach, depending on the patient’s anatomy and surgical goals. |
| Main Advantages | Preserves natural dorsal lines, maintains structural support, may reduce postoperative irregularities, and provides a more natural-looking result. |
| Possible Limitations | Technically demanding, requires careful patient selection, and is not appropriate for every nasal deformity. |
| Preoperative Preparation | Medical evaluation, nasal examination, medication review, smoking cessation when appropriate, and adherence to preoperative instructions. |
| Procedure Duration | Typically 1.5–3 hours, depending on complexity and additional procedures performed. |
| Hospital Stay | Commonly performed as an outpatient procedure, although some patients may require a short hospital stay. |
| Recovery Timeline | Most patients return to light daily activities within 1–2 weeks, while swelling continues to improve over several months. |
| Postoperative Care | Follow wound care instructions, avoid strenuous activities and nasal trauma, attend follow-up visits, and use prescribed medications as directed. |
| Potential Risks | Bleeding, infection, swelling, bruising, asymmetry, breathing difficulties, delayed healing, unsatisfactory cosmetic outcome, or need for revision surgery. |
| Expected Benefits | Improved nasal profile, preserved natural anatomy, enhanced facial harmony, and potentially better long-term structural stability. |
| Long-Term Outcome | Final results typically become fully apparent within 6–12 months as residual swelling resolves. |
| Revision Surgery | May be necessary if functional or aesthetic concerns remain after complete healing, although many patients achieve satisfactory results after the initial procedure. |
İçindekiler
One of the Best Surgeons for Letdown Rhinoplasty in Turkey
Prof. Dr. Murat Songu is recognized as one of the top surgeons for letdown rhinoplasty in Turkey, specializing in this preservation-focused technique that avoids excessive tissue removal. His expertise in structural nasal anatomy allows for functional, long-lasting aesthetic improvements.
What is Letdown Rhinoplasty?
Letdown rhinoplasty is one of the nose aesthetic surgeries and is applied to correct a slightly humped nasal structure. In this method, without intervening with the nasal bridge bone and cartilage structure, the nasal bridge is moved downward by removing bone or cartilage from the side walls. The features of letdown rhinoplasty are as follows:
- Natural appearance: This method preserves the natural structure of the nasal bridge, achieving an aesthetic appearance.
- Nasal functions: Letdown rhinoplasty can also improve nasal functions and provide better breathing.
- Quick recovery process: Letdown rhinoplasty, applied with a closed technique, offers a quicker recovery process due to less tissue trauma.
- Surgical freedom: This technique provides the surgeon with more freedom during the operation and offers more control in shaping the nasal roof.
- Aesthetic results: Letdown rhinoplasty can refine the shape of the nose, straighten humped noses, and achieve a thinner and uplifted nasal tip appearance.
Letdown rhinoplasty is an effective option for individuals seeking nasal aesthetics that combines natural appearance, quick recovery, and functional improvements. However, since each individual’s condition is different, it is important to consult a specialist before surgery.
Before & After Gallery
How is Letdown Rhinoplasty Performed?
Letdown rhinoplasty is a preferred method for nose aesthetics. It is performed with the following steps:
- The patient’s overall health status and nasal structure are evaluated.
- Detailed planning is done before the surgery, considering the patient’s expectations.
- General anesthesia is administered to the patient, and the surgery begins.
- Small incisions are made inside the nostrils.
- The nasal skin is lifted to make the nasal bones and cartilage structures visible.
- Cartilage or bone is removed from the side walls at the lower part of the nasal bridge.
- The nasal bridge is moved downward to correct the humped nasal structure.
- After removing the excess bone or cartilage, the nasal bridge is reshaped to achieve a natural appearance.
- The incisions are closed, and a splint or cast is placed on the nose.
- A postoperative recovery period begins, during which the patient is monitored.
During this process, it is important for patients to follow the doctor’s recommendations to ensure a healthy recovery. Swelling, bruising, and discomfort for a certain period after surgery are normal. The recovery process may vary depending on individual differences. Following postoperative check-ups and adhering to the doctor’s guidance ensures a healthy recovery process.
Postoperative Recovery Process of Letdown Rhinoplasty
The recovery process after letdown rhinoplasty is generally quick and smooth. Here are some important points to consider after letdown rhinoplasty surgery:
- Bruising and swelling: Bruising and swelling are normal during the first few days after surgery. This condition gradually decreases and usually disappears within a week.
- Pain and discomfort: Mild pain and discomfort are normal after the surgery. It is recommended to use the painkillers prescribed by your doctor regularly.
- Splints and tapes: The splints and tapes placed on the nose after surgery are removed after a few days. It is important to follow the doctor’s recommended dressings regularly during this period.
- First week rest: It is generally recommended to rest for a week after surgery. Avoiding excessive physical activities and following your doctor’s instructions can speed up your recovery process.
- Check-ups: Your doctor will schedule follow-up appointments at certain intervals. During these check-ups, your nasal healing process will be evaluated, and necessary guidance will be provided.
The recovery process after letdown rhinoplasty can vary from person to person. The important thing is to follow your doctor’s recommendations, attend regular check-up appointments, and give yourself time to recover.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Letdown Rhinoplasty
Letdown rhinoplasty has both advantages and disadvantages.
Advantages:
- Natural appearance: Letdown rhinoplasty maintains the natural structure of the nasal bridge, achieving an aesthetic appearance.
- Functional improvement: This method also helps improve nasal functions by ensuring that the airway inside the nose does not narrow.
- Surgical freedom: It provides the surgeon with operational freedom related to shaping the nasal roof and prevents visual distortions.
- Fast recovery process: This surgery, performed with a closed technique, generally offers a quicker recovery process.
Disadvantages:
- Temporary swelling and bruising: Mild swelling and bruising may be seen after the surgery, but they usually disappear quickly.
- Attention-required factors during the recovery process: It is important to follow the dressing instructions recommended by the doctor during the recovery process.
- Not suitable for individuals with diabetes: The healing process may be more challenging for individuals with diabetes, and letdown rhinoplasty is not recommended for these individuals.
- Surgery cost: Rhinoplasty surgeries generally have costs that vary depending on the individual situation. Therefore, the cost of the surgery should be considered.
Letdown rhinoplasty is a method that can provide positive results both aesthetically and functionally. However, the advantages and disadvantages should be individually evaluated for each patient.
What Factors Influence the Cost of Letdown Rhinoplasty?
The cost of letdown rhinoplasty varies depending on several factors. Among these, the following factors play an important role:
- Surgeon’s Experience: A letdown rhinoplasty performed by an experienced and specialist surgeon may come at a higher cost.
- Choice of Clinic and Hospital: The clinic or hospital used, the quality of the facilities, and the services provided can affect the prices.
- Level of Need: Each individual’s nasal structure and aesthetic goals are different. Therefore, the degree of need and the scope of the surgery can affect the prices.
- Regional Differences: Geographic location can also impact prices. Health clinics in major cities tend to offer services at higher prices.
- Additional Costs: Postoperative follow-up appointments, medications, anesthesia costs, and other additional expenses can also influence the price of letdown rhinoplasty.
The cost of letdown rhinoplasty is determined based on the individual condition of the patient and the assessments made by the surgeon. Therefore, it is important to consult a doctor for precise pricing.
| Country | Average Letdown Rhinoplasty Cost (€) |
| United States | €16,000 – €32,000 |
| United Kingdom | €14,000 – €28,000 |
| Australia | €12,000 – €24,000 |
| Canada | €14,000 – €28,000 |
| Ireland | €13,000 – €26,000 |
| New Zealand | €11,000 – €22,000 |
| Turkey | €4,000 – €8,000 |


