The Facts About Rhinoplasty Recovery

Rhinoplasty is a complex procedure that takes finesse and experience to really see great results. And a big reason why so many people are second-guessing their desire to get a nose job is worrying about recovery after their surgery.

But is recovering from a nose job really that bad? Lots of people erroneously think it is. Let’s go through a general overview of the process and find out.

How long does it take to recover from a rhinoplasty?

That depends. Your recovery will vary based on your overall health (healthier people and non-smokers recovery from surgery better). It also depends on the skill of your doctor. And of course, your recovery will vary depending on how much work you want done.

Your surgeon will help explain the whole process and make it simple to understand.

But generally speaking, you’ll be able to return to normal activities within just a few weeks of surgery. How’s that for fast?

How do you deal with pain and scarring after a nose job?

Pain is common with any surgical procedure, and nose jobs are no different.

Despite being a very sensitive place, getting nose surgery actually doesn’t cause extreme pain. You’ll probably need to take a narcotic pain medication for a few days after your surgery, but after that it’s only a matter of weeks until most bruising and discomfort subsides.

As for scars, you’ll want to avoid sun exposure for the first year after your procedure. For scars to heal properly (and become almost invisible), avoiding excess UV rays is absolutely paramount. Don’t take the chance—your results are forever, so be patient!

Your surgeon will help create a plan for pain management ahead of your surgery, so don’t worry!

What does a typical nose job recovery look like?

Remember, there’s no typical recovery. However, here’s what the average patient might expect after their procedure:

• Day 1: During the first day, you should stay reclined or in bed with your head elevated
• 2-3 Days: You’ll no longer require help at home for the most basic tasks.
• 7 Days: Your nose splint will be removed.
• 1-3 Weeks: When you feel up to it, you’re now able to return to work.
• 2-3 Weeks: You can resume most normal activities that don’t directly impact your nose. Most swelling and bruising should be gone. At this point you’ll be able to see your first real results, which will continue to improve for months.
• 4-6 Weeks: You can begin swimming.
• 6 Weeks: You’ll no longer have to avoid contact sports or rubbing your nose. While you should still avoid unnecessary sun exposure, by now sunburn won’t impact your results. At this time, you can also begin wearing glasses or sunglasses again.
• 3 Months: By now, any minor, residual swelling should disappear.
• 6 Months: After 6 months, your nasal tip should reach its final position.
• 12 Months: At this point, your scars should be fully healed and won’t react negatively to UV exposure.

Your recovery will vary. But as you can see, you definitely won’t be bedridden or stuck in a hospital for weeks on end.

When should you seek medical attention after rhinoplasty?

Nose job complications are uncommon, but you’ll still want to look out for:

• Swelling or bruising that increases and doesn’t go away
• Increasing redness near your incisions
• Pain that increases and isn’t relieved by medications
• Fever
• Yellow-green or odorous discharge from incision sites
• Nosebleed that can’t be alleviated with light pressure

If you experience any of the above, seek help immediately. Luckily, your surgeon will do everything possible to minimize pain and complications—but it’s always best to be prepared.

Still unsure about rhinoplasty?

Keep in mind that your surgeon is your partner. They’re committed to your success, creating a plan based on your unique body and your desires to get the best results possible.

A good rhinoplasty surgeon gets good results. But a great doctor makes you feel amazing, too.