Frequently asked
questions

The facial support layer known as the SMAS is part of this plan. A procedure on the platysma muscle in the neck may also be included. During a face and neck lift, we reposition supporting tissues that have shifted and remove excess skin.

In a deep plane facelift, we work beneath the SMAS, the supporting layer of the face. We release the necessary portions of the retaining ligaments and move the skin and supporting tissue together, preserving their connections.

In SMAS plication, we fold the supporting layer with sutures; in the high SMAS technique, we lift and reposition it. In a deep plane facelift, we work beneath this layer, release the retaining ligaments and move the skin and supporting tissue together. We choose the technique according to the position of the tissues in the cheeks and along the jawline.

We make incisions in front of the ears, behind the ears and within the scalp. After removing the excess skin, we close these areas with fine sutures.

Yes, we can combine a face and neck lift with eyelid surgery (blepharoplasty) and a brow lift in the same surgical plan. We determine which procedures are needed based on brow position, excess eyelid skin and the position of the facial tissues.

We reach the brow through an incision in the scalp at the temple. With a camera to guide us, we release the ligaments that prevent the brow from being moved upward.

A downward shift in the brow can increase the skin fold on the upper eyelid. During the examination, the excess skin that remains when the brow is supported helps distinguish folds caused by the eyelid’s own tissues.

Yes, during a brow lift, we can also perform a temple lift through the same access point. Drooping at the outer end of the brow and the position of the temple tissues determine the extent of the procedure.

We can operate on the upper and lower eyelids separately or during the same surgery. We plan procedures to address excess skin on the upper eyelid, bags beneath the lower eyelid and the shape of the eyelid.

A drooping eyelid (ptosis) means that the lash-bearing edge of the upper eyelid sits too low. With excess skin, the skin above the eyelid forms a fold. The height of the eyelid margin and the function of the muscle that opens the eyelid are also checked during the examination.

No, not all the fat is removed; we can reduce or reposition the fat in the lower eyelid. The distribution of the fat and the transition between the eyelid and cheek guide our choice of procedure.

Nose surgery (rhinoplasty) reshapes the proportions, angles and curves within the nose and in relation to the rest of the face. To do this, we reshape the bone, cartilage and soft tissues.

Nasal and facial development must be complete. Anyone who feels that a change in the structure of their nose would help them feel better and more comfortable socially may be a candidate for this surgery. Suitability for surgery is assessed during the examination. Having realistic and healthy expectations is the most important criterion for me. You can have this surgery as long as you do not have a very serious, uncontrolled illness.

In male rhinoplasty, we take a more conservative approach, aiming to create straighter, more defined nasal contours. In women, we aim for a more curved bridge, a slightly more upturned tip and a softer transition between the nose and forehead.

Nose length and width, a crooked nose, a bump on the bridge and a drooping tip are common reasons people come to us. A long or wide nose Long cartilage can contribute to a long nose. When needed, we shorten the cartilage and reshape the bones to adjust the width of the nose and its transition to the cheeks. A crooked nose A deviation may be inside the nose, outside it or both. We can also address deviations that make breathing difficult during the same surgery. A bump on the nose A bump on the bridge forms when bone and cartilage project upward. We reduce these tissues according to how pronounced the bump is. A drooping nasal tip We reshape the cartilage at the tip of the nose. When needed, we shorten long sections, narrow wide areas and adjust the positions of the cartilages in relation to one another.

Yes, rhinoplasty can also be performed on noses with thick skin. The cartilage framework needs to support the overlying skin, and certain connections between the cartilage and skin need to be preserved. We can thin the skin at the nasal tip to some extent during surgery, but there is a limit to this. Some genetic traits we are born with are difficult to change.

Yes, I do. Edited photos help me understand the nose shape you have in mind and discuss it with you. Shaping living tissue is different from changing an image on a computer.

Yes, I perform rhinoplasty under general anesthesia, which means you are kept asleep in a controlled way during surgery. I use local anesthesia, which numbs the treatment area, only for very minor procedures.

In closed rhinoplasty, the incisions are made inside the nostrils. In the open technique, an incision across the skin between the nostrils is added to the internal incisions. I do not think there is one good technique for everyone. I assess each patient individually. I use both open and closed techniques in my practice and choose the one I consider appropriate.

With nasal fillers, we inject filler material using a needle. In suitable cases, I use this method to camouflage irregularities or a small bump on the bridge, or to give the nasal tip a slight lift. I believe nasal fillers can be sufficient for only some of the changes people want to make to their nose. With nasal Botox, we reduce the activity of the muscle that moves the nasal tip when the lips move. When this muscle is overactive, we use the treatment to reduce tip movement or provide a slight lift. I usually combine this method with nasal fillers.

Yes, patients come to us for rhinoplasty from different countries. Turkish citizens living abroad also come to us.

The cost of rhinoplasty is determined at the consultation, based on the planned procedure.

Yes, we can plan rhinoplasty together with buccal fat removal (bichectomy), a lip lift, ear surgery, chin surgery (genioplasty) or eyelid surgery. Breast surgery and liposuction (fat removal) can also be part of the same surgical plan.

In buccal fat removal, we remove part of the fat pad inside the cheek. We reach this tissue through a small incision inside the cheek near the upper teeth and close the incision with dissolvable sutures.

A lip lift may be considered if the distance between the nose and upper lip is long and this makes the upper lip appear thin; if the distance is already short, further shortening may not be suitable. We determine suitability through measurements and an examination. During surgery, we remove skin beneath the nose to shorten this distance.

An implant is not used in every chin surgery. We can use an implant to lengthen the chin or bring it forward. When reduction is needed, we reshape the bone by filing it down or shortening it. If the condition also affects the bite, a separate plan that includes dental treatment may be needed.

During ear pinning (otoplasty), we reach the cartilage through an incision behind the ear. We reshape the cartilage to bring the ear closer to the head and define or recreate the ear folds. When needed, we can also move a forward-positioned earlobe back.

Through a small incision beneath the chin, we apply ultrasonic energy, which uses sound waves, to the fat tissue. We then suction out the fat with thin cannulas.

Chin liposuction removes excess fat beneath the skin. A neck lift also includes excess skin and the platysma muscle beneath the neck skin in the surgical plan. Fat deposits, excess skin and muscle bands are examined separately during the consultation.

Not every scar requires surgery; non-surgical options are also available. The scar’s width, elevation, color and relationship to the surrounding tissue are considered when choosing a treatment.

We can plan augmentation with silicone breast implants, medical devices placed to add volume, in the following situations: 1. When an increase in breast volume and a change in hip-to-bust proportions are desired 2. When breast volume has decreased after pregnancy, breastfeeding or weight loss 3. When the right and left breasts differ in size 4. When reconstructing a breast removed because of breast cancer 5. When previously placed implants need to be replaced or corrected If sagging accompanies volume loss, we can add a breast lift to the augmentation.

Breast augmentation with silicone implants can be performed on almost anyone who feels they need it. There are some very specific exceptions, such as pregnancy and breastfeeding. We discuss your expectations during the examination. Chronic conditions or medication use may require more detailed preparation.

Breast augmentation can be performed after the age of 18 and once breast development is complete.

Breast implants differ in shape, contents and surface texture. Shape options include round and teardrop implants. They may be filled with silicone gel or saline and have a smooth or textured surface.

For mild sagging, augmentation with implants alone may be sufficient. If the nipple sits below the level of the fold beneath the breast, we can add a breast lift to the augmentation.

This subject is outside my area of expertise, so I can only offer a quotation. It was decided that there is no objection to undergoing aesthetic surgery as a form of treatment, provided that: a) there is no intention to alter the sound natural form, b) there is a benefit in having it or an existing harm in not having it, c) there is no intention of fraud, deception or resembling the opposite sex, d) it does not lead to legal confusion or misunderstanding. (High Board of Religious Affairs, 2002)

Most women have slight differences. There are several options for breast asymmetry, a difference in size or shape between the breasts: 1. Reducing the larger breast 2. Reducing both breasts by different amounts 3. Augmenting both breasts by different amounts 4. Combining augmentation and lifting to different extents on each breast We decide which procedure to perform during the examination, based on breast size and the degree of sagging.

With submuscular placement, part of the implant is covered by the chest muscle. With subfascial placement, the implant sits above the muscle, beneath the thin connective tissue layer covering its surface.

Preserve is an approach to breast augmentation with implants that aims to preserve breast tissue, supporting ligaments, nerves and muscle. We place the implant in a pocket beneath the breast tissue or the muscle fascia, prepared without cutting the muscle.

With the MIA approach, we work through a small incision to create a limited pocket sized to fit the implant. The implant is placed above the muscle and behind the breast tissue.

We can consider these methods for people who are thinking about their first breast augmentation, do not have pronounced sagging and have enough tissue to cover the implant. We take measurements to assess how the volume you want fits your breast base and skin envelope. Thin tissue or pronounced sagging may require a different surgical plan.

Yes, we can perform a breast lift without implants. If you also want fullness in the upper part of the breast, augmentation with implants may be added to the lift, depending on the existing volume.

The incision pattern is chosen according to the distribution of excess skin and the planned position of the nipple. When excess skin is limited, an incision only around the areola, the pigmented area surrounding the nipple, may be an option. In a vertical pattern, this incision extends downward toward the fold beneath the breast. An inverted-T pattern adds a horizontal incision along this fold.

In breast reduction, we remove excess breast tissue to reduce volume and weight while also moving the nipple upward. In a breast lift, we focus on reshaping sagging tissue and adjusting the position of the nipple.

If you would like a modest increase in volume, fat transfer breast augmentation is one option. We use liposuction to take tissue from an area with excess fat and transfer it beneath and around the edges of the breast tissue. If you want a substantial increase, the volume this method can provide may be limited.

Fat transfer augmentation requires enough body fat to transfer. If there is little fat available in areas such as the abdomen, waist and thighs, the method may not be suitable.

Areola reduction addresses the diameter of the pigmented area surrounding the nipple. Nipple reduction decreases the length or width of the projecting part.

A breast lift, tummy tuck (abdominoplasty) and liposuction can be planned as part of a mommy makeover. Augmentation or reduction are also options, depending on changes in breast volume. We select procedures based on the areas you would like to change and the examination findings.

Completing breastfeeding and having stable breast volume and body weight are considered when assessing suitability. Plans for another pregnancy also affect the decision about breast and abdominal surgery. You can discuss these plans at your consultation.

For gynecomastia, or enlarged male breasts, the methods used include liposuction and surgical removal of firm tissue. Liposuction is sufficient for many people; we remove any firm tissue that cannot be suctioned out through a small incision. We choose the method according to the degree of breast enlargement and the skin structure.

The cost of liposuction is determined at the consultation, based on the planned procedure.

Liposuction is surgery in which we remove localized excess fat to shape the body’s contours. We apply suction to fat tissue using cannulas, thin instruments for removing fat, inserted through small openings. Liposuction is not a weight-loss procedure.

Liposuction can be performed on the abdomen, waist, back, outer thighs, legs, arms, chest and neck. We choose the areas for fat removal according to the distribution of fat and your body contours.

In suitable cases, we can use the removed fat to shape the buttocks, breasts or face. To do this, we collect the fat in special containers and prepare it for transfer to the area where volume is desired.

A thin cannula is passed beneath the skin to deliver energy to the connective tissue, aiming to contract collagen fibers with controlled heat. We use our J-Plasma and argon plasma devices for skin tightening.

Yes, when the tissue structure is suitable, we can apply plasma treatment during liposuction through the openings made for fat removal. The distribution of fat and the degree of skin laxity determine this plan.

We can consider plasma treatment for people with mild or moderate skin laxity. For advanced sagging that requires excess skin to be cut away, lift surgery is considered.

In a tummy tuck, we remove sagging skin and fat and bring separated abdominal muscles closer together at the midline. With liposuction, we remove localized excess fat beneath the skin. Liposuction of the upper abdomen and waist can be included in the same plan as a tummy tuck.

A mini tummy tuck addresses limited excess skin below the navel. In a full tummy tuck, the skin above and below the navel is adjusted, and a new opening for the navel is created in the abdominal skin.

A BBL (Brazilian butt lift) is surgery in which we adjust the volume and shape of the buttocks using fat taken from your body. We prepare tissue removed by liposuction from areas of localized excess fat and transfer it to the buttocks.

This describes an approach in which we monitor the position of the thin tube used to transfer fat, called a cannula, with real-time ultrasound. We use this imaging to track placement of the fat in the layer beneath the skin, above the fascia covering the muscle.

We place the fat in the tissue beneath the skin, above the fascia covering the muscle. Because large blood vessels pass beneath the muscle, we do not inject fat into or beneath the muscle.

A BBL requires enough tissue in the areas where fat will be taken. The amount of fat available and the structure of the tissue beneath the buttock skin limit the volume that can be transferred.

Yes, we provide the sitting cushion after surgery. We ask you to avoid putting direct pressure on the buttocks.

An arm and thigh lift may be considered for skin laxity related to weight loss or aging. We remove excess tissue according to the distribution of the laxity and close the skin edges with dissolvable sutures.

We can plan procedures on the abdomen, breasts, back, arms, thighs and face to address excess skin caused by weight loss. Fat transfer may also be an option in areas with volume loss.

After bariatric surgery, meaning stomach surgery for weight loss, we base the plan on the distribution of excess skin and the areas with volume loss. Weight stability, nutritional status and general health are considered when assessing suitability for surgery.

We can also plan procedures to address excess skin and volume loss after GLP-1 agonist weight-loss injections. This requires your weight to have stabilized and your general health and nutritional status to be assessed.

We can perform a back lift for sagging tissue that forms folds above and below the bra. We measure and mark the excess tissue and plan the closure line to lie beneath the bra.

Labiaplasty reduces and reshapes the inner labia. Vaginoplasty is a tightening procedure that addresses stretched internal vaginal tissues and the surrounding muscles. The area to be treated depends on where the concern is and on the examination findings.

In FUE, small units of tissue containing hair follicles are removed individually. In FUT, hair-bearing tissue is taken from the back of the head as a strip and divided into grafts for transplantation.

Yes, we first examine the mole you would like removed. The examination findings guide the decision about removal and whether microscopic examination is needed.

Horizontal forehead lines, frown lines between the eyebrows and crow’s feet at the outer corners of the eyes are among the areas treated with Botox. We plan treatment with the aim of softening lines while preserving your facial expressions.

Botox aims to reduce the contraction of certain muscles, while fillers add volume and shape to tissue. The choice takes into account whether a line is related to muscle movement or a lack of volume.

We do not perform Botox treatments during pregnancy or breastfeeding. You can let us know at your consultation if you are pregnant or breastfeeding.

The lips, cheekbones, chin and jawline are among the areas where we use dermal fillers. Fillers may also be considered for the lower eyelids, nose and certain wrinkles. We choose the treatment area according to facial anatomy and the need for volume.

Filler selection varies according to the skin thickness and tissue structure of the treatment area. We plan the treatment based on where we want to add volume and shape.

Biostimulators are substances used to stimulate collagen production in tissue. Collagen is a structural protein that gives connective tissue strength. We base treatment on the skin’s structure, laxity and the location of volume loss.

PLLA (poly-L-lactic acid) is a substance that is prepared by reconstitution and stimulates collagen production. Calcium hydroxylapatite (CaHA) consists of microspheres in a gel carrier and is used for tissue support and collagen stimulation.

Hyaluronic acid fillers use a gel to provide volume and shape, while biostimulator treatments target the tissue’s collagen-producing response. The gel carrier in calcium hydroxylapatite also provides tissue support.

Yes, we can include these treatments in the same plan when there are separate needs related to facial movement, a lack of volume and skin structure. We determine which procedure is suitable according to the target tissue in each area.

We can also use lip fillers with the aim of defining the outer border. We choose where to place the filler based on the change you want and the existing volume and shape of the upper and lower lips.

Yes, you can tell us at the consultation where previous filler was placed and, if you know, what it contained. This information helps us assess the current lip tissue.

For skin dryness and fine wrinkles, treatment areas include the cheeks and the skin over the cheekbones. We can also treat the neck. We apply hair mesotherapy to the scalp to support the hair follicles.

PRP is platelet-rich plasma prepared from your own blood. The blood sample is separated into its components by centrifugation (spinning). The plasma portion with a high concentration of platelets is set aside for treatment. We inject the prepared material into the treatment area using fine needles.

PRP is the platelet-rich portion of blood. Preparing PRP does not mean obtaining stem cells.

We most often use Botox for excessive sweating in the underarms. The palms and soles are also treatment areas.

The cause and distribution of sweating determine suitability for localized treatment. If sweating is related to another illness or to medication use, this is assessed before a treatment decision is made.

At the first consultation, we discuss which area you would like to change, what change you have in mind and your expectations. Based on the examination findings, we explain suitable options, the extent of the procedure and any treatments that could be planned together. You are welcome to ask your questions during this visit.

Previous operations, current medical conditions, medications and allergies are among the details needed for the examination. Mentioning any previous aesthetic treatments in the area also helps with planning.

Yes, if you live far away, you can request an online initial assessment using your photos. Dr. Hakan Bulam reviews your photos and explains the treatment options that may be suitable.

When you fill out the pre-consultation form on the website, the clinic will call you. You can send photos of the relevant area via WhatsApp.

If you wish, you can request an online initial assessment using your photos before coming to Istanbul. We consider your travel dates when planning your examination and surgery. We welcome you to our practice in Nişantaşı for your examination, planning and follow-up visits.

Consultations are available in Turkish, English, German and Russian; you can speak with Dr. Hakan Bulam in Turkish or English. You can write your preferred language in the form’s message field.

Yes, in suitable cases, we can combine several procedures in one surgical plan. For example, eyelid surgery can be added to a facelift, or augmentation to a breast lift. We base the decision to combine procedures on your general health and the extent of surgery.

We carry out examinations, planning and follow-up visits at our practice in Nişantaşı, Istanbul. Operations take place in a fully equipped hospital operating room in Istanbul. You can ask about the hospital where your surgery will take place during your consultation.

You can call, send a message via WhatsApp or complete the appointment form on the website. When you submit a request through the form, the clinic will contact you.