Frequent Asked Questions

Preparing well before surgery helps create the best possible experience. Dr. Ginsburg will provide detailed pre-operative instructions tailored to you. In general, you should be in good overall health and stop smoking at least four weeks before surgery if you use marijuana or tobacco products. Dr. Ginsburg may ask you to get a medical clearance if you have any preexisting health issues.

You’ll also receive instructions on recommended vitamins, an antibiotic ointment to reduce nasal bacteria before surgery, and simple preparation steps, such as trimming nasal hair. Having your recovery supplies ready and arranging for someone to help during the first few days after surgery can make your recovery much more comfortable.

Most patients wake up wearing a protective cast over the nose, along with a few small sutures near the base of the nose or inside the nostrils. It’s normal to experience light bloody nasal drainage during the first two or three days.

Many patients are pleasantly surprised that rhinoplasty is less painful than expected, with most no longer needing pain medication within about 48 hours. Dr. Ginsburg will provide detailed post-operative instructions, so you know exactly how to care for your nose.

Recovery happens gradually and varies from person to person. About one week after surgery, you’ll return to the office so Dr. Ginsburg can remove your cast and any sutures. Swelling is still expected at that stage, although some patients already look remarkably natural. Swelling can be uneven or worsen during recovery, but it does not affect the final result.

Most visible swelling improves enough within three to four weeks that others may not realize you’ve had surgery. However, rhinoplasty requires patience. Final results typically develop over a year, while revision rhinoplasty may continue refining for 18 months or longer.

Our relationship with you doesn’t end when your procedure is complete. From your consultation through your recovery, our team is here to answer questions, review instructions, monitor your healing, and provide reassurance whenever you need it.
You’ll have scheduled follow-up visits with Dr. Ginsburg so he can evaluate your progress, remove your cast and sutures, and ensure your recovery is progressing as expected. We ensure you feel supported throughout every stage of your rhinoplasty journey.

Rhinoplasty is one of the most technically demanding procedures in facial plastic surgery because it requires balancing both appearance and function. Dr. Ginsburg specializes exclusively in facial plastic surgery, with rhinoplasty serving as his primary area of expertise. His training and experience allow him to evaluate the intricate anatomy of the nose while considering how every change will affect overall facial harmony. He aims to help you achieve a nose that looks natural, functions well, and complements your unique facial features.