Rhinoplasty recovery time is important for many patients, as they are often concerned about returning to work and/or daily activities. The most recent statistics, According to the “Plastic Surgery Statistics Report” by The American Society Of Plastic Surgeons, show that more than 350 000 nose reshaping procedures were done in 2020. in the U.S.
Normally, you may feel anxious before the procedure. At Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center in NYC, we aim to be there for our patients throughout the whole journey, providing them with information and answering all the questions they may have.
Read step-by-step recovery guidance from the best New York plastic surgeon Dr. George Lefkovits and learn what to expect from your nose job recovery, starting at the earliest days.
Recovery Timeline – Each Stage Of the Rhinoplasty Recovery Explained
Rhinoplasty (also referred to as “nose job” or “nose reshaping”) is a cosmetic procedure routinely performed in our plastic surgery center. However, recovery, just like recovering from any other plastic surgery procedure, may be challenging for some patients. A plastic surgeon is there to help you pass that time with ease.
At Park Plaza Plastic Surgery Center, we care about follow-up appointments through each stage of your rhinoplasty recovery process.
Discomfort, as well as bruising, is completely normal at this stage! Swelling is common, not just at the tip of the nose, but around the eyes and cheeks as well. You may experience minor difficulties breathing. Your nose will be protected with an external splint, and with an internal splint if needed, alongside packing inside the nostrils.
Try to avoid activity that demands a lot of energy (strenuous activity such as running or playing sports). Do not lift heavy things. Rest as much as possible.
If you find the pain to be unbearable, ask your plastic surgeon for pain medications.
You return in 1-2 days, firstly to have the packing removed and then, 5 days later, to have the taping and splint (external and internal) removed. Additionally, this is the moment you will be able to see your nose for the first time after rhinoplasty. Bear in mind that this is not the final look of your nose, since there is swelling and bruising still present.
While sleeping, try to keep your head elevated as much as is achievable to encourage suitable blood flow and prevent additional damage.
You are able to return to work by the end of the second week after the procedure. But it’s all relative and depends on the patient.
Swelling and bruising should slowly fade by the end of two weeks.
Limit your sun exposure time, and use adequate sun protection, as the skin around your nose is sensitive.
After 3-4 weeks, talk to your plastic surgeon about returning to strenuous activities.
At this stage of the postoperative treatment, very few signs of the procedure are present. With each day, you should feel better, bruising and swelling should completely disappear, and your nose should appear closer to the desired outcome.
Pay attention to your nose and try to keep it away from any possible trauma. Situations such as accidentally hitting your nose, or bumping into something with your nose, may be dangerous.
At this point, the look of your nose is very close to the final results.
The results of the rhinoplasty procedure are clearly visible. You may see your doctor for a final consultation.
Five Tips To Speed Up Recovery Time
Applying a cold compress to the area around your cheeks and eyes can help you soothe the swelling and/or bruising. If you do not have a cold compress, use a cold pack, or a pack of frozen beans.
In the first 1-3 weeks, keeping your head elevated when sleeping can limit additional bruising and swelling.
These drugs increase blood flow, which could consequently increase bleeding and lead to more inflammation. Take only the medication your doctor suggests.
In the first six weeks following up the rhinoplasty, you will experience some nasal congestion. Instead of blowing, ask your doctor about using a nasal spray to clean your nose. Why is this significant? Simply because when you blow your nose, the pressure occurring could provoke bleeding, and therefore delay recovery time.
Regarding sneezing, try to sneeze through the mouth to protect the delicate nasal passages.
Postoperative care is vital for your good recovery! Your plastic surgeon will make a plan for your monitoring, so make sure to attend all your follow-up appointments.
In Conclusion – Patience Is the Key
The recovery period takes time, and your nose may not look like you expect in the first weeks after the plastic surgery. Although rhinoplasty is an outpatient procedure, and you are able to return home within a few hours, it may require up to one year for the final results and for your nose to show its full appearance.
Listen to the instructions, and do not hesitate to ask your doctor about everything you feel uncertain about. Trust the healing process, and more significantly, choose a board certified facial plastic surgeon who you can completely trust.
If you are thinking about rhinoplasty and still have doubts regarding recovery after reading this blog, contact our office in New York City or schedule a free consultation with our facial plastic surgeon Dr. George Lefkovits.
