Important

Description

Rhinoplasty Recovery

A rhinoplasty, also known as the nose job, fixes most nose ailments. The procedure differs from case to case and depends upon the patient’s desired result. Rhinoplasty recovery varies by patient, however most patients will have similar recovery times and experiences. Prior to undergoing any surgical procedure it is important that the patient is aware of and understands what the recovery will be like.

Recovery Time

A patient will notice subtle changes to their nose throughout the first year following their procedure. Though it takes a year for a full recovery, patients will be able to gauge what the final result will look like 14 days after the procedure.

Week 1

Patients will experience bruising, swelling and discomfort during the first week of rhinoplasty recovery. A cast must be worn for the first seven days following the procedure. Patients should expect to feel congested for a few days following the procedure; additionally, slight discomfort is expected when swelling reaches its height. Pain medication will cause the patient to feel tired and sluggish.

Many patients who undergo a rhinoplasty refer to the recovery time as uncomfortable, but not necessarily painful. The most discomfort will be experienced during the first week.

Week 2

Bruising and swelling will visibly improve or completely disappear during the second week of recovery. By this time, the dissolvable sutures will start coming out on their own. Though the incision may be red and bumpy, patients should easily be able to cover it. Patients are able to resolve most normal activities, aside from physical labor or exercise.

Week 3

Patients are able to begin exercising after the third week of recovery. Subtle changes in the nose will be apparent and patients will get an idea of what their nose will look like. The incision may still be red but should no longer be bumpy or risen.

Following Week 4

The nose will predominantly be healed after a month. The incision will no longer be visible after two or three months. There may still be slight swelling around the tip of the nose, however most swelling will have subsided.