What is the Rhinoplasty Recovery Process Like?

Before jumping into your rhinoplasty procedure, we recommend that patients consider the recovery process that follows. In doing so, you can properly plan for the recovery process and any changes it may bring to your daily routine. Below, we’ll outline what you can expect from the rhinoplasty recovery process.

Immediately After Your Rhinoplasty

Immediately following your surgery, a splint will be applied to the nose with some additional bandages. Most patients can expect to wear this splint for about a week, although the exact time required will vary depending on how much surgical work was done on the nose. During this time, you will begin to experience swelling, bruising and discomfort in and around the nose. These symptoms will typically be at their worst a few days after treatment, which is why patients are encouraged to take at least one week off of work and other activities. During this time, we recommend that patients rest as much as possible. To manage pain and other symptoms, you can use prescription pain medications, over-the-counter pain relievers and techniques like sleeping with the head elevated.

One Week After Your Rhinoplasty

After the first week, you’ll likely have your splint and bandages removed, and you’ll start to feel back to normal. You will still experience bruising and swelling during this time, so don’t expect your final results to be noticeable just yet. However, most patients are able to return to work and social events without difficulty. Keep in mind, you should still be taking it easy at this time! While you can return to most normal activities, you should still avoid strenuous exercise, heavy lifting and any activities that could bring injury to the nose while it heals.

One Month After Your Rhinoplasty

One month after your rhinoplasty procedure, most of your swelling and bruising should be healed. At this point, you should be able to return to most of your usual activities and can even begin easing back into exercise and other physical activities. However, a small amount of swelling may continue to persist. In most cases, this swelling is subtle enough that only you or the people you are close with will be able to notice. Still, it is important to be aware that this swelling may persist for several months or even up to a year.

One Year After Your Rhinoplasty

After one year, your nose should be fully recovered from the rhinoplasty procedure, with your results fully visible. At this point, there will be no further restrictions to your activity. You can begin enjoying your results and living life to the fullest.

If you’re interested in learning more about the rhinoplasty procedure or recovery process, contact us today at Providence Facial Plastic & Cosmetic Surgery. We’ll be happy to answer any questions you may have, or help you schedule your initial consultation with Dr. Ginsburg!