Rhinoplasty gone wrong in Turkey is a common concern for patients seeking affordable surgery abroad. While many achieve good results, others face complications such as breathing problems, asymmetry or even loss of smell.
If your rhinoplasty in Turkey went wrong, you’re not alone. Below, we explain the most common complications, how they can be corrected and what right you have as a patient.
Most Common Problems After Rhinoplasty Gone Wrong in Turkey
Patients experiencing rhinoplasty gone wrong in Turkey often report asymmetry, scarring or functional issues.
1. Breathing difficulties: Even if the outside appearance looks fine, improper handling of the septum of nasal valves leave airways too narrow, making breathing difficult.
Legal Note: According to the Turkish Medical Deontology Regulation, physicians must protect both cosmetic and functional outcomes. If breathing result from negligence or poor surgical technique, patients may pursue malpractice claims for corrective treatment costs and damages.
2. Asymmetry (Crooked Nos or Uneven Nostrils): Poor planning or technical errors may cause nostrils of different sizes or a crooked nasal bridge.
Legal Note: Turkish courts consider “cosmetic malpractice” compensable. Failure to deliver a symmetrical, natural appearance may result in liability if informed consent was not properly obtained or if the result deviates significantly from accepted medical standards.
3. Over-Resection (Too Much Tissue Removed): Removing excessive cartilage or bone can cause collapsed “saddle nose.”
Legal Note: If a surgeon removes more tissue than medically appropriate, it may constitute malpractice under Turkish law. Patients can claim damages for botch medical expenses and disfigurement.
4. Unnatural Shape: Some patients report noses that look too small, too narrow or overly upturned – creating an artificial look.
Legal Note: Informed consent is crucial. If a surgeon fails to warn about possible aesthetic risks or delivers an outcome far below professional standards, liability may arise under Turkish Code of Obligations.
5. Scarring and Adhesions: Open rhinoplasty may leave small scars; careless technique can lead to visible scars or internal adhesions (synechiae) that block airflow.
Legal Note: The duty of disclosure requires surgeons to warn patients of foreseeable scarring risks. If scarring exceeds what was explained or if caused by negligent technique, compensation may be sought.
6. Prolonged Swelling & Irregularities: Excessive swelling or bumps along the nasal bridge may persist due to poor technique or inadequate follow-up.
Legal Note: Clinics have a duty of care extending beyond the operation. Lack of proper post-up monitoring may create liability for complications that could have been prevented.
7. Skin Necrosis & Infection: Rarely, poor surgical planning or inadequate hygiene can cause tissue necrosis of infection.
Legal Note: Clinics that fail to follow hygiene protocols may face both civil and criminal liability. Under Turkish law, infections lined to negligence are grounds for malpractice compensation.
8. Loss of Smell or Sensation: Nerve damage during surgery can cause temporary or permanent loss of smell.
Legal Note: Permanent sensory loss may be classified as bodily harm under Article 89 of the Turkish Penal Code, in addition to malpractice liability.
What To Do If Your Rhinoplasty Went Wrong in Turkey
1. Seek Medical Evaluation: Obtain a report from a qualified ENT or revision rhinoplasty specialist.
2. Gather Evidence: Keep contracts, before/after photos, WhatsApp messages and clinic correspondence.
3. Request Compensation: You may claim for revision surgery costs, travel expenses, lost income and moral damages.
4. Take Legal Action: Patients can file malpractice lawsuits in Turkish courts or complaints with the Ministry of Health
FAQ
1. Can I sue rhinoplasty clinic in Turkey? Yes. Under Turkish law, patients harmed by medical negligence may file malpractice claims for medical costs, corrective treatment, lost income and moral damages.
2. What if my nose looks unnatural or asymmetry? If the outcome deviates significantly from medical standards, this may be considered “cosmetic malpractice.” Lack of informed consent strengthens liability claims.
3. How long do I have to file a claim? In Turkey, malpractice claims are generally subject to a 2-year statute of limitation starting from when you became aware of the damage, and in any case 10 years from the surgery date.
4. Can foreign patients claim compensation? Yes. Foreign patients have the same rights as Turkish citizens. They can file malpractice lawsuit in Turkish courts and lodge complaints before the Ministry of Health.
5. What evidence do I need?
- Medical records and contracts
- Photos of results
- Independent expert reports confirming malpractice
- Clinic correspondence and receipts
If you suffered from rhinoplasty gone wrong in Turkey, you may have both medical and legal options to correct the damage.
