What to Expect During Your Rhinoplasty Recovery

According to 2020 statistics by the American Society of Plastic Surgeons, rhinoplasty was the most popular facial cosmetic surgery performed. If you’re one of many patients considering undergoing a nose reshaping procedure, then it’s perfectly normal to have questions. During your consultation with your board-certified plastic surgeon, you’ll discuss the details of your customized procedure, including things like what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Rhinoplasty comes with one of the longest recovery periods of any plastic surgery procedure, so it’s important to know what to expect. As you plan your consultation, here’s a brief guide to your rhinoplasty recovery.

Bandages, Splints, and Packing

Your plastic surgeon may have preferences for how to support and protect your nose after surgery, but it’ll likely include some combination of bandages, splints, and packing inside the nostrils. It’s important to keep these things in place until you’re cleared to remove them – or until your plastic surgeon removes them. If you’re given instructions on caring for incisions, follow them as best as you can. These steps are extremely important in preventing infection.

Bruising and Swelling

You can expect some bruising and swelling after your procedure, especially around your eyes (since blood tends to pool in these areas). The worst bruising and swelling occurs within the first week of surgery, but then gradually heals throughout the second week. However, it’s still possible to have minor swelling for months after surgery as your nose adjusts. That’s because the nose is full of delicate tissues, blood vessels, and structures that will continue to change over time.

Pain Management

Every surgery will come with some discomfort afterward as your body heals. You’ll be given prescription medications to take during the first few days (when discomfort is usually at its worst) to help you rest. You can also manage pain using protected ice packs administered 15 minutes at a time. Most discomfort should subside within one to two weeks – make sure to contact your plastic surgeon if it persists.

Returning to Work and School

You should plan to take one to two weeks away from work or school, depending on your regular schedule. If you have an active job, you should plan to take extra time to recover. If you work an office job, however, you may be able to return sooner. Keep in mind that you may also need to give yourself time to feel comfortable returning to public since you may still have bruising and swelling for the first few weeks.

Results

It can take about one month to see results from your procedure, and even several months for your final results to settle in. It’s important to be patient and allow yourself plenty of time to rest and adjust to your new nose. The best way to ensure you achieve stunning results is by following your aftercare instructions and selecting an experienced, board-certified plastic surgeon who specializes in rhinoplasty techniques.

Schedule a Consultation

The best way to learn more about rhinoplasty is by scheduling a private consultation. At the Gallery of Cosmetic Surgery & Aesthetic Lounge, we can help you explore your cosmetic goals with the most advanced and state-of-the-art cosmetic options. To meet with our team, contact our luxurious Orange County office by calling or filling out our online form.