The initial post-operative recovery after rhinoplasty surgery typically takes about 2 weeks. Immediate results are noticeable as soon as the cast is removed at the end of the first week; however, it can take up to a year before the full anticipated appearance for the “after” photo is reached and the nose feels completely normal again.
During the first week is the time when patients experience the most discomfort—there is a cast on the bridge of the nose, and some patients have some bleeding from the nose, bruising around the eyes, and congestion. Sometimes, there is packing inside the nostrils that causes some of this congestion. Also, there is usually some drainage of mucus and blood during the first few days.
Typically at the end of the first week, all sutures, packing, and splints are removed. The breathing improves greatly. There may still be mild bruising. Much of the swelling and bruising is gone and breathing is improved by 1-2 weeks after surgery; however, there can be sensitivity and mild residual swelling that can take months to 1 year to fully resolve.
I usually caution patients not to return to exercise until 3 weeks after surgery and to avoid heavy glasses, goggles, or contact sports until 6 weeks after surgery. Meticulous sun protection is a must for the first year after surgery. I recommend mineral-based sun block and wearing a hat anytime my patients are out in the sun.
After about 3 weeks, most patients report that their friends and colleagues don’t notice anything was done, but they still feel swollen and sensitive around the nose. I like to see patients back in the office every 1-2 months to check on their healing and progress. Occasionally, I may inject steroid medications to reduce swelling.
Usually close to the 1-year mark is when patients feel like their nose truly belongs to them again. They feel comfortable with the look and feel of the nose, as well as their breathing, and it may even seem like this is the nose they’ve always had, or at least were meant to have.
So, the most important thing after a rhinoplasty is to be patient with your body as it heals and recovers.
If you are considering rhinoplasty, revision rhinoplasty, or other nose surgery procedures available at our practice, please contact us today. We will be happy to provide you with additional information or assist you with scheduling a consultation.
— Dr. Catherine Weng – Board-Certified Facial Plastic Surgeon
