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Before Rhinoplasty: A Complete Preparation Checklist from Decision to Surgery Day
Key takeaways
Take your time with the decision and the choice of surgeon; meet more than one surgeon if you are unsure.
Stop aspirin and other blood thinners at least 7–10 days before surgery (only with your doctor's approval), and pause herbal teas and supplements that increase bleeding.
Stop smoking as early as possible, ideally months before surgery and at the very least 4 weeks.
Tell your surgeon about colds, flu, regular medicines, allergies and, for women, your menstrual cycle when scheduling.
Fast for at least 6 hours before surgery and arrive without make-up, nail polish or hair products.
Step 1: Making the decision
A nose that does not suit your face or has deformities can be corrected with rhinoplasty, but the decision should never be rushed. Recognising what bothers you, accepting it and deciding to change it can take years. Sometimes the problem started with a childhood injury that disturbed nasal growth and caused breathing problems noticed only much later. Being sure the decision is your own is the foundation of a good experience. See psychological benefits of rhinoplasty.
Step 2: Research and choosing your surgeon
Modern rhinoplasty offers many techniques and instruments, from closed and open approaches to preservation methods and ultrasonic bone shaping. Surgeons identify your deformities first, then recommend the technique that suits them, after listening to your goals. Our personal advice: do not meet only one surgeon. Compare opinions, look at real results, and choose the surgeon you trust. Read how to choose the best rhinoplasty surgeon.
Step 3: Planning with the clinic
Once you choose your surgeon, the clinic team guides the rest:
Setting the surgery date
Hospital selection and admission arrangements
A pre-operative planning appointment, photographs and simulation
A meeting with the anaesthesiologist
Pre-operative blood tests and examinations
Tell your surgeon about
Colds, flu or sinus infections: an active infection is a reason to postpone surgery.
Regular medicines and supplements.
Allergies and previous reactions to anaesthesia.
Menstrual cycle: some women prefer to avoid surgery during their period because of increased bleeding tendency; share your dates when scheduling.
Previous nose injuries or surgeries.
What to stop before rhinoplasty
Aspirin and blood-thinning painkillers: stop at least 7–10 days before, unless your doctor has prescribed them for a medical condition (never stop prescribed medication without your doctor's advice).
Herbal teas and supplements such as green tea extract, ginkgo, ginseng, fish oil, high-dose vitamin E, garlic and ginger supplements: stop 1–2 weeks before, as they can increase bleeding.
Alcohol, especially red wine: avoid for at least a week.
Smoking and nicotine: stop as early as possible; see smoking and alcohol after rhinoplasty.
Psychological preparation
Being overly anxious or going through a very stressful period can affect how you experience recovery. Talk openly with your surgeon about your concerns; Prof. Dr. Suleyman Tas Clinic works with a psychologist who can support patients before and after surgery when needed. See how to overcome a fear of nose surgery.
Surgery day checklist
Do not eat or drink for at least 6 hours before surgery (follow the exact instructions given).
Do not use nail polish, make-up, hair spray or gel.
Wear comfortable clothes that button at the front.
Bring a supportive companion who makes you feel calm.
Read the consent and anaesthesia forms carefully before signing.
A surgical gown is provided for hygiene; a urinary catheter is not used for rhinoplasty.
Rhinoplasty is usually performed under general anaesthesia; some limited procedures can be performed under local anaesthesia with sedation.
After you are discharged
Most patients go home the same day or the next morning. In the first week, sleep on your back with the head elevated, attend all check-ups and follow instructions carefully. Bruising and swelling fade over time, restrictions are lifted one by one, and the nose settles over about a year. Read after rhinoplasty: what to expect and the rhinoplasty recovery timeline.
Frequently asked questions
How far in advance should I book rhinoplasty?
Allow several weeks for consultation, tests and preparation, and longer if you need to stop smoking or travel.
Can I have rhinoplasty if I have a cold?
No. Surgery is postponed until you have fully recovered, usually 1–2 weeks.
What should I buy before rhinoplasty?
Saline spray, lip balm, extra pillows, soft foods, cold compresses and front-opening clothes.
Next step
Contact Prof. Dr. Suleyman Tas Clinic to start planning your rhinoplasty with Prof. Dr. Suleyman Tas.
About the author
Prof. Dr. Suleyman Tas is a European Board-certified plastic, reconstructive and aesthetic surgeon based in Istanbul with over 20 years of experience, author of Rhinoplasty in Practice (CRC Press) and founder of the Closed Atraumatic Rhinoplasty Course. Read verified patient reviews or book a consultation.
This article is for general information and does not replace an individual medical consultation.
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