Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Surgery Recovery

Rhinoplasty (nose job) recovery requires patience. The nose and face are initially swollen, sore, and bruised. Some bleeding is common. Although these side effects are not usually bothersome after the first week or two, some minor residual swelling may persist for several months, and the final results of surgery may not be visible for up to a year. Because of these inevitable effects, many patients prefer to wear some sort of covering for the nose after surgery.

Most patients who have a nose job are pleased with their new look and have no need for revision rhinoplasty. If you are interested in rhinoplasty and its benefits, a qualified plastic surgeon can help you learn more about the procedure and may also be able to provide you with rhinoplasty post operation instructions to give you a better idea of what the recovery process is like.

Rhinoplasty (Nose Job) Recovery

Following rhinoplasty (nose job) surgery, part of the recovery process is staying in bed with the head elevated for the first 24 hours. Your face will feel puffy, your nose will ache, and a dull headache may be present. Pain can be managed with medication prescribed by the surgeon.

Swelling and bruising will peak after two to three days — this can be lessened with the application of cold compresses. Bleeding is common for the first few days of nose job (rhinoplasty) recovery, and you will be asked not to blow your nose for approximately one week. As part of rhinoplasty post operation instructions, patients will also be advised not to bend over with the head below the heart as this may increase swelling and bleeding. The nasal packing will be removed after a few days, and the splint (which covers the nose after surgery) and/or stitches will be removed one to two weeks later.

Most of the rhinoplasty side effects, such as swelling and bruising, will disappear after two to three weeks. Residual swelling can remain for several months to one year after a nose job, but this is usually not noticeable to anyone but the patient and the surgeon.

Following Rhinoplasty – Post Operation Instructions

After the nose job procedure, your surgeon will provide you with rhinoplasty post operation instructions. Since it is one of the more complicated forms of facial plastic surgery, a good rhinoplasty result is dependent on post operation instructions being conscientiously followed.

Returning to Your Normal Routine

Patients will be able to return to work approximately one week after rhinoplasty (nose job) surgery, but recovery may take longer if post operation instructions are not followed. Patients should not participate in sports or return to weight lifting for two weeks after rhinoplasty and should not take part in any activity that may result in a blow to the nose for about eight weeks. Airline travel is not recommended in the first few weeks following surgery.

Patients who wear contact lenses will be able to wear them whenever they feel up to it. However, patients who wear glasses will have to have them taped to the forehead or propped on their cheeks for approximately six to seven weeks. This is necessary to ensure a good, healthy rhinoplasty recovery.

Find a Rhinoplasty Surgeon near You

Be sure to find the cosmetic surgeon who best fits your needs as you seek your own nose job. Rhinoplasty recovery will go much smoother and you will like the results much better if you select a skilled, attentive, highly qualified surgeon and carefully follow rhinoplasty post operation instructions.