What's the recovery like for Rhinoplasty?
Everything you need to know about Rhinoplasty recovery — timeline, tips, what to avoid, and when to call your provider.
Recovery timeline
Splint or cast on nose. Significant bruising under and around eyes. Swelling is significant. Head elevation required. No blowing nose.
Cast removed. Bruising fades. Still very swollen. Most patients are not socially presentable. Return to desk work possible at week 2.
Bruising fully resolved. Swelling reducing but still present. Most patients feel comfortable going out publicly.
Visible swelling mostly resolved. Shape becoming more defined. Tip swelling resolves last and most slowly.
Final result visible. Rhinoplasty results continue to refine for up to 1 year as residual swelling fully resolves.
Recovery tips
- Sleep with head elevated on 2–3 pillows for the first 3–4 weeks
- Apply cold compresses to cheeks and eyes (not nose) to reduce bruising
- Blow your nose very gently if needed — open mouth sneezes only for 3–4 weeks
- Avoid glasses resting on the nose for 4–6 weeks — tape them to your forehead if needed
- Be patient — the nose takes up to 12 months to show its final shape
What to avoid
- Blowing nose forcefully for at least 3–4 weeks
- Contact sports or anything with risk of impact for 3–6 months
- Glasses on the nose for 4–6 weeks
- Sun exposure on the nose for 1 year — swollen tissue is especially susceptible to pigmentation
- Strenuous exercise for 3–4 weeks
When to call your provider
- Heavy bleeding that does not stop with gentle pressure
- Fever above 101°F
- Sudden increase in swelling after initial improvement (possible hematoma or infection)
- Difficulty breathing that worsens rather than improves
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