Recovering From Rhinoplasty

Ask the vast majority of patients who’ve had a rhinoplasty from a highly qualified surgeon, and they’ll tell you that it’s life-changing.

Even if you desire only a minor change, it can have huge impact on your appearance and confidence. It could even help you sleep better!

But it’s important to remember that it is a surgical procedure. So knowing what to expect when recovering from rhinoplasty can lead to a more satisfying outcome.

Upon Leaving the Procedure

First things first.

Rhinoplasty is a complicated surgery. There isn’t a standard order of steps that board-certified surgeons follow. Instead, they must tailor each operation for the patient. Even so, the vast majority of rhinoplasty procedures are out-patient and the patient can leave the hospital the same day.

It’s the first week after the procedure that’s the most intense. In most cases, the surgical site will be splinted or packed on the inside. The nose itself will be covered with bandages to protect it and allow for healing as it adapts to its new shape. This dressing needs to say in place for one week. Because of this, patients should plan to take that week off from work, school, or other obligations.

Pain and swelling during this time will be most pronounced – with some bruising and tenderness under the eyes and on the cheeks. You’ll need to follow your surgeon’s detailed post-operative instructions during this time. Proper post-op care will contribute to the surgery’s success.

The Down-Low On Recovering From Rhinoplasty Long-Term

Once the bandages come off, one of the first things patients want to know is how long before they’ll see results. Typically, initial results appear within the first few weeks to a month as the tissues begin to heal. This doesn’t necessarily mean that you’ll have the final nose shape you desire at that point though.

For some patients, the swelling can take a considerable amount of time to subside. So even though you’ll see a marked difference within weeks, it could potentially take several months or up to year to achieve that final nose shape.

This is because the soft tissues of the nose are more prone to holding swelling than other parts of the body. But rest assured, the swelling does eventually subside.

And the initial swelling immediately post-op usually goes down enough so that patients are able to return to work and light activity in about two weeks. This will, or course, vary from patient to patient depending on how strenuous their job. But that’s a safe ballpark figure.

Ready To Talk With a Board-Certified Plastic Surgeon?

Although recovering from rhinoplasty may sound challenging, it’s truly one of the most beneficial procedures.

So whether your reasons for seeking rhinoplasty are cosmetic or structural, contact us today to talk with one of our board-certified plastic surgeons.

He or she will be able to discuss with you in detail this amazing procedure and what you can reasonably expect as you head out to ‘face’ the world again!