Rhinoplasty: Experiences and recovery tips?

Hey everyone. I read somewhere that having oily skin on your nose—and believe me, I’ve been dealing with an oil slick since puberty and nothing helps—is actually a bad thing if you're planning on getting rhinoplasty because it could ruin the final look of the surgery. Is that true or false?
i'm worried 😢((
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Nancy Allen said:Bokic! Honestly, having those tampons in my nose was so uncomfortable. Once we finally took them out and moved on to the mold and the tape, I felt like I could actually breathe again. I stayed home for about seven or eight days straight. Forget about going to campus, grabbing coffee, or any of that—it just wasn't happening. Dr. Tony told me I needed to rest, so for the first three days, I kept applying cold compresses to my neck and was forced to just stay in bed and recover, which actually turned out to be a blessing in disguise! I've been feeling better every single day. My nose was a little swollen, but it was manageable. It didn't bother me much because I knew it was temporary. By the ten-day mark, I was basically back to my normal self; the only thing was I couldn't wear sunglasses for about two months.

Aha, great. I'm glad everything healed up perfectly for you. But tell me, after that initial 10–15 day period, was the swelling still noticeable? I absolutely refuse to show up at the university looking like I have a potato for a nose😢!
I am honestly terrified of the risks involved. Even if I have the money set aside, I keep second-guessing the whole thing because I'm so worried about complications. I don't even know who to turn to for honest, reliable advice. I’m seeing Dr. Tony in about ten days, but I can't help but wonder if he's truly looking out for my best interests or if he's just focused on the bottom line. Well, I hope you understand where I'm coming from... 😢

casualgardener said:Aha, nice. Glad to hear you healed up properly. But what about after those 10-15 days? Is everything still swollen? I really don't want to show up to campus looking like I have a potato for a nose😢!
I'm honestly terrified of the risks. Even though I can afford it, I keep second-guessing myself because I don't want anything going wrong. I have no clue who to actually trust for real advice. I'm heading to see Dr. Tony in about 10 days, but I'm not sure if he's actually the right guy or if he just wants my money... well, I hope you get where I'm coming from... 😢

Hey, I totally get why you're scared. No one feels 100% chill before deciding on something like this. Look, I just had my surgery with Dr. Tony, and I'm getting my splint removed this Thursday. So far, everything has been perfect. Zero pain, no swelling at all. Honestly, the first three days were a total drag because you can't breathe through your nose, but you get used to it. It actually felt weird being able to breathe through my nose again once they took the packing out, since I was so used to not being able to... 😂
As for whether Dr. Tony is legit—I'm not trying to give you a sales pitch, but seriously, don't even sweat it. They know their stuff. My family doctor is actually friends with him, so I got some firsthand info, and he said he’s a full ENT specialist, not just an aesthetic surgeon, so he truly knows what he's doing. Even though I haven't seen the final result yet, I have zero doubts it's gonna be amazing! 😍
Just stay brave!

coastaltinker13 said:Look, I completely get why you're feeling anxious. Nobody goes into something like this without a heavy dose of nerves; it’s perfectly natural to feel unsettled before making such a major decision. As for my own experience, I’m actually fresh out of surgery performed by Dr. Tony. I’m currently in my fourth week of recovery, just getting my mold removed, and honestly, everything has gone flawlessly so far. I haven't dealt with any pain or swelling at all. I will admit, the first three days were a total nightmare because you can't breathe through your nose, but you eventually adapt to just about anything. To be honest, once they finally pulled the tampons out, it felt incredibly strange to actually be able to breathe through my nose again after being so used to the obstruction. 😂
As far as Tony’s competence goes, look, I’m not trying to run an advertisement here, but it is honestly something you shouldn't even lose sleep over. These people actually know their business. My primary care physician is a close friend of his, so I’ve picked up some firsthand insights through the grapevine; he mentioned that Tony is a fully qualified ENT specialist, not just some aesthetician, so he truly understands the science behind what he does. Even though I haven't seen my own results yet, I have absolutely zero doubt they will be wonderful! 😍
Just stay brave!

I’m inclined to believe the hype. Honestly, everything I’ve heard about him has been nothing but glowing reviews. But then I start scrolling through these forums, and it seems like every single person has some kind of grievance. People are complaining about minor irregularities or expressing dissatisfaction with their results. It makes me wonder: is he actually a massive risk, or are people just being incredibly petty and impossibly demanding? Oh well, I’m heading in for my consultation soon, so I'll just see for myself and decide then.
Did you undergo the procedure under general anesthesia, or was it done with local?

casualgardener said:I think so. Honestly, everything I've heard about him has been amazing. But then I read these forums and everyone has some kind of complaint. People are talking about lumps, or being unhappy with the results. I don't know if he's actually a huge risk or if people are just being petty and way too picky? Oh well, I'm heading to my consultation so I'll decide...
Are you getting surgery under general or local anesthesia?

Look, for every doctor out there, someone is going to have something nasty to say. And then that one single comment can totally sway the opinion of the whole crowd. Isn't that just how it works in every job? Like, I can tell you Hoyka took incredible photos of me, but then suddenly you're looking at them thinking they aren't great. (Oh, what an example... 🤣 Obviously, it's not the same situation, but still...)
Hmm, regarding those bumps and stuff... anything is possible, so yeah, that could happen. But if we start thinking like that, where does it end? No one can guarantee exactly how your body is going to react. But the fact is, there are tons of people who overreact—like, they go back for a second or third surgery because they aren't happy for whatever reason. Most of those reasons are super trivial. As for lumps (if they even show up), from what I've heard, they fade away as the healing progresses... basically, the nose "settles in." That process takes forever, so there's no need to panic if you notice something after three weeks. And if it doesn't go away after a long time, oh my God, you just go back for another consultation and figure out the next steps...
What I'm trying to say is that you need to judge for yourself whether you trust whichever doctor you choose. Regardless of what anyone else suggests...

As for the anesthesia, they do it under local with sedation. I'm no expert or anything. But don't let that word "local" scare you. You show up, you lie down, and you go to sleeeeeeeep. 🙂 You won't feel a thing! I literally woke up already in the hospital bed, and honestly, I have no clue how or when I even got there. So don't be afraid that you'll see something or, heaven forbid, feel something.

coastaltinker13 said:Look, for every doctor out there, there’s going to be someone with something nasty to say. And then that one single opinion ends up swaying the minds of the entire crowd. Isn't that just how it works in every profession? I can personally say that Hoyka took absolutely stunning photos of me, yet somehow you might think I look terrible in them. (Oh, what an example. 🤣 Obviously, the situations aren't identical, but still...)
Regarding those lumps and bumps or whatever—anything is possible, so fine, I'll give you that. But if we start thinking like that, where does it end? No one can guarantee exactly how your body is going to react. The reality is, there are plenty of people who go overboard, coming back for a second or third surgery because they aren't satisfied for reasons known only to themselves. Most of those reasons are completely trivial. As for any lumps (if they do show up), from what I've heard, they tend to disappear as the healing process moves forward—basically, the nose "settles into place." That is a long, drawn-out process, so there is absolutely no reason to panic if you notice something after three weeks. And if it doesn't clear up after a long period, my God, you just go back for a consultation and figure out the next steps.
What I am trying to say is that you need to evaluate for yourself whether you have trust in whichever doctor you decide on. It shouldn't matter what anyone else suggests to you.

As for the anesthesia, they perform it under local enhancement. I'm no expert on the medical side of things, but don't let that word "local" scare you. You show up, you lie down, and you go to sleeeeeeeep. 🙂 You won't feel a thing! Personally, I woke up already tucked into bed, having no idea how or when I even made it there. So please, do not be afraid that you'll see anything or, heaven forbid, feel anything.

And thank you so much, dear, for the reply. I'm going to consult with Dr. Tony, and honestly, I am just overflowing with questions, haha. Like what Dr. Tony mentioned regarding when I'll be able to resume normal activities, like going to work or college, or going out? And will that swelling be really noticeable, huh?
Goodness, I have so many questions, poor me.
Oh man, thanks again 😢(

Don't even worry about it, I'm just glad I can help out. 😬
Honestly, they said nothing should really show once I take the mold off. My eyes aren't puffy and my face doesn't look swollen at all... maybe my nose a little, but I can't tell through everything else. I doubt it'll be obvious enough for anyone who isn't already looking for it. I did mine right before summer started so I could have time to "recover" before heading back to college, but I think you'll feel like a brand new person in a week or two. Just a little makeup if there's a tiny spot and you're good to go. 😍

I guess I’ll weigh in too... it’s been a little over six months since my surgery and I am honestly beyond satisfied. It actually feels like as time goes by, my nose looks better and better. Of course, there's no more 😁 and I can breathe perfectly fine, all five airways are clear... the only thing is that it still hurts when I touch it. It’s not intense pain, but the area around the bridge and the tip is still pretty sensitive. If I had known this was how the process would go, I wouldn't have waited ten years 😉... there was minimal bruising, recovery was great, and after about ten days, I felt like a new person
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Yes, I am heading in tomorrow for my consultation—essentially, to finalize the arrangements for surgery with Dr. Tony. Once he confirmed the appointment time, I decided it was finally time to break the news to my inner circle. Honestly, the reactions from my friends have been absolutely heartwarming, and I am feeling incredibly happy about it. Since I’m living in New York for college but am originally from the coast, they even started coordinating plans to come help me out while I'm recovering and wrapped in bandages.

In the past, people used to throw insults about my nose, and if I'm being completely honest, it really stung—even though I always put up this front and insisted I didn't care what anyone thought. At the same time, I knew that making a change wasn't financially feasible, especially since I didn't have any savings of my own. I never had the nerve to ask my mother for something like this; I felt too ashamed to be so "selfish" and drain her funds, particularly given how hard she works.
Now, at nineteen and finally having my own money, I have officially decided to go through with cosmetic correction. I am not expecting some manufactured, perfect result; I just want a normal nose that actually fits my face. Generally speaking, I am an extremely bright and cheerful person with plenty of self-confidence, and I see this as just one small adjustment that will refine that confidence and make it even stronger.

I truly believe everything will go smoothly and that I will be thrilled with the outcome.

For now, I only have the "before" photo 🤣 but hopefully, in a few months, I'll have one of the "after." And I'm hoping for a successful one! 😍



😍

wish me luck 😁

Ooo Amy, honestly, your nose doesn't even look that bad to me. And I’m not just saying that to be nice, I really mean it... But if you're dead set on doing it, I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. Actually, I don't even need to cross them because everything is gonna turn out great. Let me know how the consultation goes.

coastaltinker13 said:Oh Amy, honestly, your nose doesn't look nearly as bad as you think. And I'm not just saying that to be nice—I truly mean it. But if this is something you really want to do, I'll keep my fingers crossed for you. Actually, I don't even need to worry about that because everything is going to turn out fantastic. Let me know how the consultation goes.

Thanks, dear. I'm not claiming it's a disaster, nor am I looking for some radical overhaul. It's more that if you saw the whole picture, you'd realize it throws off my entire aesthetic, and I know I'd look much more balanced and polished without it. I really appreciate your confidence that everything will go smoothly.
I'll reach out again soon
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Here I go again.. I finally sorted out my money issues today and called the clinic to set up a consultation, but nobody ever picked up the phone.. I was dead set on seeing Kinčl, but after scrolling through all your posts, it seems like there are way more people who went to Dr. Tony and actually walked away happy. Now I’m stuck in this massive state of indecision.. I’ve combed through seven different threads (probably for the hundredth time) and scanned every single clinic website until I practically have them memorized 🙄
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Who should I pick? Kinčl or Dr. Tony??!!

I'm terrified of making the wrong call.. Honestly, the person who started this thread should have just thrown in a poll for the best one 😬
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😍

Hey there, fellow nose warriors,

just a quick update: 😉 I am FINALLY, absolutely thrilled with my nose!
🙏
It took three full months of dealing with swelling, total dissatisfaction, and genuine anxiety 🙂 :2up: but now, it’s actually happening! It looks right! 🎉
The waiting game was brutal... but ::::::I finally have a beautiful, straight nose and I couldn't be happier! (Patience pays off)! Thanks to everyone who reached out with support after my surgery—wishing you all the exact same luck!

Best to you all! 👋

Hey everyone!

I have two quick things I wanted to run by you all...

First off, has anyone actually been here for an exam or maybe even surgery? I’d love to hear what your experience was like!

Second, I have a pretty specific question for a surgeon. I’ve got my diagnosis ready—all the details on the symptoms and everything—so now I’m just looking for a seasoned pro who can give me a straight answer on "can this be done or not," and eventually, "what’s the damage going to cost me?"

But here's the kicker: how on earth am I supposed to pose that question to Dr. Glumicic when he absolutely ignores the email address listed on the clinic's website?! Should I call and beg them to put me through to him? Or am I expected to just book a full appointment, pay for a consultation, and then walk out of the office one minute later still stuck with the same question?
Honestly, I don't get it. I can get a response from the IRS about customs duties on some random junk I bought on eBay, but getting a word in at a prestigious private clinic like Gulic Clinic is a whole different story...

So, after soaking up basically everything this forum has to offer, now that I’m finally on the other side of it all, I wanted to drop a recommendation for a doctor and clinic that don't get mentioned here nearly enough—Orlando Clinic and Dr. Bedekovic. Honestly, I’m a pretty high-maintenance patient—I’m picky as hell, and my gut feeling about the doctor was the dealbreaker for me. Plus, the fact that he’s both an ENT and a plastic surgeon was a huge plus. He actually treats you like a human being rather than just a nose or a face; we really geeked out over my expectations, especially since he isn't a fan of those tiny, fake-looking plastic noses—so we were on the exact same page there. The whole team at the clinic treated me like royalty, everything went perfectly, and my recovery was insanely fast and painless. Yeah, the price tag is a bit higher than your average surgeon, but they don't pull those shady moves where they nickel-and-dimed you for every single test, bandage, or follow-up appointment like some other places love to do.

So, I finally booked my consultation with Dr. Tony for September 1st at 6 PM. I told her straight up that I’m in a rush to get the surgery done and asked how soon we could make it happen. She said they'd look into getting everything sorted within a few days. 🙂 Basically, this means I won't be going under the knife within the next two weeks. 🙂 I'm relieved, but honestly, I am also incredibly terrified... I'm seriously freaking out right now. 🙂

Hey everyone. Here comes another one whose nose is anything but a point of pride...
Everything went sideways after that accident. Nothing actually broke, but all the soft tissue just went haywire—over the last couple of years, the whole thing has completely changed shape, function, and size. After bouncing around between endless appointments and getting "expert" opinions, I finally decided to get it sorted at the Tony Clinic. Why there? Because they were the only ones who weren't total jerks and actually acted friendly...
So, Dr. Cala from the Rebro wing told me—and he was dead certain about this—that it’ll settle down, the swelling will go away, and there's zero need for surgery. Even though, given my natural deviated septum, this new mess is basically a perfect setup for even more issues down the road...
Well, newsflash: it didn't settle down. If anything, the problems just multiplied. Now I'm dealing with constant inflammation in my frontal, ethmoid, and sphenoid sinuses...
Then there was Dr. Klapan, who some other doctor recommended. He ran through some tests and, of course, charged me a fortune, all while telling me absolutely nothing useful...
Down in Dubrava, Dr. Vlasic told me my nose looks totally fine and that it doesn't matter at all that it looks completely different than what I started with... She suggested some corticosteroid drops would magically fix everything...
Hello? My issue isn't just functional; it's aesthetic too...
Then Dr. Bedekovic—not at his private practice in Orlando, but over at S. Milosrdnica Hospital—basically told me in a four-minute conversation, "I can't fix that for you here." Oh, I get it now. A professor can't handle it at the hospital, but that same professor could probably do it at his private office...
Anyway, that's the saga so far.

mistyskipper7 said:Look, after spending way too much time digging through all the info on this forum, now that everything is finally over, I gotta recommend a doctor and clinic that don't get mentioned here nearly enough—Orlando Clinic, Dr. Bedekovic. Honestly, I’m a pretty high-maintenance patient—my gut feeling about the doc was absolutely make-or-break for me, plus the fact that he’s both an ENT and a plastic surgeon was huge. He actually treats you like a human being, looks at the whole face and nose as one thing, and we were totally on the same page about him hating those tiny, fake-looking plastic noses... we spent ages just talking through my expectations. The staff at the clinic treated me like royalty, everything went smooth, and recovery was incredibly fast and painless. Yeah, the price tag is a bit higher than average, but you aren't getting hit with those ridiculous extra fees for tests, dressings, follow-ups, and all that nonsense some places pull.

Just a heads up though—that guy has a completely different side to him, the one he shows when he's at S. milosrdnica Hospital. He can be arrogant, full of himself, and just plain cold.

A surgeon doesn't need to be particularly charming. As far as I'm concerned, they could be downright arrogant and obnoxious... as long as the results are flawless. So, for those of you who are intimidated by the surgeon and are holding out for someone "nice"... I think it’s much smarter to just look at before-and-after photos and hear what people actually say about the outcome after their procedure.😉What he's like as a private individual... isn't my concern.
It's not like I refuse to listen to a world-class singer just because they're an absolute jerk.😂As long as the art is there... that's all that matters!😍

Look, it’s not even about whether he’s a "nice guy" or whatever... I went to that appointment to hear his actual professional take on my situation and the surgery itself. I didn't show up just so someone could ignore my entire medical history. I definitely didn't go there to have him point at some scar right under his own nose or give me a little demonstration of how hard it is to breathe when you're cramped on one exam table... I'm the patient here—it's his literal job to gather as much info from me as possible, run it through that brain of his, and actually offer some solutions...
It doesn't matter if I'm walking into the hospital where he works or heading over to Orlando!